Kathmandu: The members of the House of Representatives have expressed that the newly formulated Land Act by the government should prioritize the needs of landless individuals. During a session of the Agriculture, Cooperatives and Natural Resource Committee under the House of Representatives, lawmakers emphasized the need for additional care and sensitivity in addressing the issues faced by the landless, Dalit, and those residing in unmanaged settlements. They highlighted that these challenges require focused attention from the State.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Lawmaker Pratima Gautam stressed the importance of protecting forest land from encroachment and misuse. She also stated that land exempted from ceiling regulations should be utilized for its intended purpose as outlined during the exemption process. Gautam further highlighted the necessity of coordination between provincial and local governments to ensure effective land management. She cautioned against allowing political motives to influence the new bill under the guise of aiding landless squatters.
Lawmaker Binita Kathayat raised concerns that the proposed bill seems to benefit those wielding power rather than ordinary citizens. She underscored the importance of acquiring accurate data on landless and squatter populations to inform policy decisions.
Lawmaker Sobita Gautam pointed out that the frequent amendments to the Act, which has been revised 16 times, reflect policy corruption. She asserted the need for state protection for individuals without land to ensure they have a place to settle.