KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has defended the government’s recent eviction drive targeting informal settlements, arguing that the move was necessary to prevent political manipulation and mitigate risks ahead of the monsoon.
Speaking at an informal parliamentary party meeting in Kathmandu, Lamichhane said the government acted swiftly after receiving indications that the issue of squatter settlements could be heavily politicized by various groups.
“If we had delayed, the situation could have escalated due to excessive politicization,” he told lawmakers, adding that the government chose to intervene in a timely manner to maintain order and ensure proper management.
Monsoon urgency cited
Lamichhane stressed that the approaching rainy season was a critical factor behind the decision. He warned that waiting longer could have exposed vulnerable settlements to flooding, which in turn would have triggered stronger public backlash against the government.
“If floodwaters had entered these settlements during the monsoon, the same people would question what the government was doing,” he said, defending the urgency of the move.
He added that early intervention would allow authorities to better manage relocation and provide relief before adverse weather conditions worsen the situation.
Decision taken in coordination
The RSP chair said the eviction drive and resettlement plans were carried out in close coordination with Prime Minister Balen Shah, emphasizing that the move was not arbitrary but part of a broader, agreed-upon strategy.
Lamichhane noted that discussions had been held on whether to delay the process, but the government ultimately decided to proceed after receiving information about possible disruptions and attempts to provoke confrontation.
Focus on structured resettlement
According to Lamichhane, the government has adopted a structured approach to manage informal settlers, aiming to minimize damage while ensuring long-term solutions.
He said the plan includes categorizing affected populations and facilitating their relocation, with efforts underway to arrange land distribution and permanent housing.
Lawmakers present at the meeting said the government aims to complete significant portions of the resettlement process before the monsoon begins, to avoid humanitarian risks.
Coordination and execution
The meeting also highlighted the need for better coordination between ministers and lawmakers to ensure smooth implementation of such sensitive policies.
Lamichhane directed party officials to strengthen communication channels and maintain alignment in public messaging, particularly on contentious issues like evictions.
He maintained that the government is proceeding with a clear plan and urged lawmakers to support execution on the ground rather than disrupt ongoing efforts.
Government dismisses criticism
Despite criticism from opposition parties and rights groups, Lamichhane insisted that the government’s actions were guided by necessity rather than political motives.
He described ongoing criticism as exaggerated and said the administration would continue to move forward at its own pace.
“The government is working according to plan. We will not be distracted by rumors or unnecessary pressure,” he said.
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