KATHMANDU: Chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, Rabi Lamichhane, has said that landless and squatter communities will not be rendered homeless under any circumstances, assuring that alternative housing and land will be provided.
Speaking to journalists after a secretariat meeting at the party’s central office in Banasthali on Sunday, Lamichhane said the government’s current actions are focused only on managing settlements in high-risk areas prone to floods and landslides.
He said there is no need for nationwide panic among squatters and landless citizens, adding that the ongoing relocation efforts are aimed at ensuring public safety rather than displacement.
According to him, residents in vulnerable areas are being moved to safer locations as part of risk reduction measures.
Lamichhane stated that although there have been around 30 previous attempts to address squatter issues, a long-term solution has not yet been achieved. He claimed the current government is working toward a more structured and sustainable approach.
“We are committed to ensuring the rights of landless citizens. No one will be left homeless; instead, they will be provided housing,” he said.
He also said the government plans to provide land ownership certificates (lalpurja) and ensure permanent settlement for genuine landless families.
Acknowledging procedural shortcomings in some relocation efforts, he said corrections would be made soon. He added that local authorities have been instructed to prioritize public safety during infrastructure expansion and development works.
Lamichhane also accused some groups of unnecessarily creating fear among squatter communities, while asserting that the federal government remains committed to safeguarding citizens’ future.
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