Kathmandu, Mar. 10: Women Security Pressure Group today said that the existence of discriminatory laws (against women) is against the spirit of the Constitution, democracy and the international treaties that the government ratified. The women rights activists also called for speedy amendment to the Muluki Ain (civil code) that “treats women as second class citizens”.

Though various political parties expressed commitments and mentioned the proposed amendment to the existing Muluki Ain as their agendas in their election manifestos, and women rights activists have been pressing for the quick amendment, the parliament could not pass the bill because of lack of support from the parliamentarians, a statement distributed during the press meet said. “The delay has disheartened the women rights activists.”

In 1993 two advocates filed a writ at the Supreme Court for amendment to the discriminatory clauses. In August 1995, the Supreme Court issued a directive for immediate amendment to the discriminatory clauses. The proposed amendment bill on the Muluki Ain was proceeded to the parliament during the 13th session of the House, however, it has not been passed till the date.

On a query, former parliamentarian Sahana Pradhan, said that the political leaders from both the ruling and opposition parties have assured of tabling the bill during the on going 17th session. “It is yet another iteration of an old assurance,” she said with a note of doubt on seriousness of the “assurance”.

“Since the Directive Principles of State Policy provisions for special law for development of women, the equal rights (to women) bill should be made a legislation quickly,” the press statement further said.