KATHMANDU: The Supreme Court has ordered the government to produce official documents detailing the procedures and decisions used in clearing squatter settlements.
A single bench of Justice Sunil Kumar Pokharel issued the order on Monday, directing authorities to submit records related to the eviction process in five key areas.
The court has specifically sought clarification on how mandatory legal procedures were followed, in line with provisions outlined in the government’s 100-point governance reform document, constitutional guarantees, and the Right to Housing Act. It has asked for decision documents explaining the basis and method adopted during the eviction.
In addition, the court has demanded an objective report on the condition of families displaced from the settlements. This includes details on rehabilitation measures, daily food arrangements, healthcare access for the elderly, sick, and persons with disabilities, sanitation, and alternative education arrangements for children, ensuring compliance with minimum human rights standards.
The order comes in response to a writ petition filed by Majid Ansari and others against the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers and related authorities.
The court has summoned both parties for a hearing on May 6. It has also directed the defendants to submit a written response within 15 days of receiving the notice, through the Office of the Attorney General, stating the grounds and justification for their actions.
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