KATHMANDU: The Home Ministry has formed a committee to investigate and work on the elimination of the notorious Chhaupadi system.
Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane disclosed this on Monday in the National Assembly, where he briefed about the Chhaugoth incident of Achham.
He stated that based on studies, research, and recommendations from experts, the committee will formulate policies to end the Chhaupadi practice.
Minister Lamichhane had earlier provided information regarding the 16-year-old girl who was allegedly raped in a Chhaugoth located in Ward No. 2 of Panchadewal Binayak Municipality, Achham.
“He mentioned that the health condition of the girl is currently stable, and one person has been arrested on charges of rape, with investigations ongoing.
“If the legal prohibitions alone cannot control the Chhaupadi tradition, it is necessary to engage the community collectively, including administration, local government, civil society, religious and cultural organizations, and mass media,” he emphasized.
Minister Lamichhane also indicated that in the future, the ministry will review the actions taken by local administrations in districts where such incidents occur, and provide directives for preventive programs.
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