Sexual and gender minorities demand inclusive representation in state bodies, file writ at Supreme Court

KATHMANDU: Sexual and gender minority communities, advocating for proportional inclusion based on the principles of equal representation, have filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court, urging state bodies to allow them representation.

According to the sources, Secretary of Mayako Pahichan Nepal, Surendra Pandey and three others, filed the writ petition against the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Law, the Federal Parliament, and the Public Service Commission, demanding the right to representation in state bodies, as per the provisions of the Constitution.

Article 42 of the Constitution mandates the right to representation for sexual and gender minority communities in state bodies based on the principles of proportional inclusion. The petition seeks amendments, revisions, or additions to the laws to enable inclusive participation in civil services.

The petition highlights the violation of the rights of these communities, affecting their access to employment, livelihood, and a dignified lifestyle.

This marks the first instance of advocating for representation by the sexual and gender minority community in the Constitutional Assembly, with Sunil Babu Pant participating as a member. The hearing on the writ petition is scheduled for Tuesday, January 16.