KATHMANDU: Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) have demanded that the Government of Nepal grant them a form of citizenship that is fully recognized by all state institutions.
During a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on State Affairs and Good Governance held at Singha Durbar on Monday, discussions were held regarding the amendment to the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2006.
NRN representatives raised concerns that although they are granted Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship, Nepal’s own agencies do not recognize this status in practical matters.
They specifically highlighted that NRN citizenship is not accepted in cases such as inheritance or property division.
Dr. Upendra Mahato, founding president of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), stressed the need for a citizenship provision that allows NRNs to enjoy rights similar to native citizens—except for holding political office.
“We are clear that only full citizens should be eligible to become lawmakers, but NRNs should be granted citizenship with access to other rights,” he said.
Former NRNA President Rabina Thapa added that NRNs face challenges even in land administration, with government offices such as the Land Revenue Office failing to recognize their citizenship status.
She advocated for continuity of citizenship granted on the basis of lineage, which is currently not fully recognized under the NRN framework.
British Gurkha veterans also raised concerns about discriminatory treatment in citizenship matters, calling for their issues to be addressed in the upcoming legal amendments.
Committee Chairperson Ramhari Khatiwada assured that the government would clarify its stance on NRN citizenship and that necessary provisions would be incorporated into the revised bill.
Comment