Nayan Bahadur Khattri

Nayan Bahadur Khattri
(File photo)

Chairman of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Nayan Bahadur Khatri demanded sincere effort from the government for the protection and promotion of human rights saying the trend of rights violation is on the rise due to the government’s passivity.

Speaking at a program organized to mark the 57th International Human Rights Day at NHRC, chairman Khatri said, “The state’s continuous defiance of court orders and its indifference to the Maoists’ unilateral ceasefire have obstructed the restoration of peace and protection of human rights in the country.”

Khatri further said, “Sincere activity and response from the government are necessary for the protection of human rights. But the incidence of human rights violation has not decreased, disrespect for court orders and lack of response to the Maoists’ unilateral ceasefire continue obstructing the people’s desire for peace and human rights protection.”

Stating that the government has also failed to implement recommendations made by the Commission in the past, Chairman Khatri demanded that the government take action against those responsible for human rights violations.

He also urged the Maoists to immediately stop abductions and extortion, and respect international human rights laws.

Similarly, Ian Martin, representative of UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), said that Nepal should immediately ban torture.

He said, “In countries across the world, effective investigation, prosecution and punishment remain vital steps in addressing the impunity of those who commit torture, and are the ultimate proof that torture will not be tolerated.”

He also said that absolute ban on torture is a cornerstone of respect for human rights and upholding this ban remains a fundamental responsibility for both state and non-state actors throughout the world.