KATHMANDU: Social activist and former ambassador Padam Sundas has been selected to receive this year’s ‘Karmayogi Badri Pahadi Samaj Sewa Puraskar’ for his unwavering commitment to social justice.
The Human Rights and Peace Society announced that Sundas will be honored with a cash prize of one lakh ten thousand rupees in recognition of his decades-long contribution to fighting caste discrimination and promoting social harmony.
Born on July 15, 1945, in Bhojpur, Sundas has actively worked in the field of social justice for over 30 years. His tenure as Nepal’s ambassador to Bahrain from 2017 to 2021 marked a period of continued advocacy for human rights and inclusion.
Throughout his career, Sundas has played pivotal roles in numerous social movements. He led the Bhojpur Siddakali Temple Entry Campaign in 1965, breaking centuries-old barriers of caste discrimination. He also served as the coordinator of the peaceful joint Dalit movement in 2072 BS, which lasted three months and aimed to ensure a Dalit-friendly constitution.
In addition, Sundas has been the chairman of the Nepal Dalit Literature and Culture Foundation for 20 years and a founding member of the Asia Dalit Rights Forum. He was also part of the national-level advisory committee under the Prime Minister’s Office in 2012.
Beyond activism, Sundas has made significant literary contributions. He authored ‘Bhojpurko Chinari’, a book highlighting the historical and cultural essence of Bhojpur, and ‘Choriyo Raat’, a collection of stories.
His contributions to literature and social change have earned him numerous accolades, including the ‘Bhagat Sarvajit Manav Maryada National Award’ from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation in 2017.
Expressing gratitude for the award, Sundas stated, “After becoming capable in life and starting to work, I have followed the principles of Buddha. I had vowed to spend some of the money I earned to help society. I am happy to receive the honor, but I did not work only for honor.”
Sundas’ lifelong dedication to social justice and community empowerment continues to inspire change and solidarity among marginalized communities across Nepal.
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