KATHMANDU: Squatters in Birtamode have launched a protest from Wednesday, demanding an end to what they describe as bulldozer terror in settlements.
Residents of the settlement are demanding land ownership certificates for the areas where they have been living for years, saying they should not be displaced from their longstanding homes.
The protesters warned against what they called nationwide bulldozer terror and said authorities should not play with citizens’ right to housing.
A delegation of the Landless-Squatters Joint Struggle Committee submitted a memorandum to the Birtamode Municipality, demanding an immediate halt to the demolition of houses and sheds within the municipal area, distribution of land ownership certificates to genuine squatters, and action against land mafias.
They have also demanded that those who have died due to eviction-related incidents be declared martyrs and that their families be compensated.
The memorandum, submitted to Mayor Pabitra Devi Mahatara Prasai, states that the government’s eviction drive has violated the fundamental rights of landless squatters.
Citing Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to housing, the group argued that evictions without alternative arrangements are inhumane and contrary to Supreme Court directives.
The committee claims there are 1,035 landless squatters and 1,520 unregulated settlers in Birtamode alone. It also cited the deaths of 17-year-old Robin Tamang and 61-year-old Indra Bahadur Rai, alleging they were driven to suicide due to eviction pressure.
Signed by coordinator Bishnumaya Bishwakarma and secretary Ramesh Murmu, the memorandum warned of intensified protests if their demands are not addressed, saying the government would be responsible for any consequences.
Hundreds of squatters participated in the protest, expressing strong opposition to the ongoing eviction campaign.
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