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This week, the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML coalition formed a task force to develop the government’s common minimum program (CMP), a positive step, though albeit delayed. Once the CMP is finalized, it will provide a clear direction for the coalition government, serving as a guiding document for ministers across party lines, many of whom are currently unclear about their priorities. The CMP could also help reduce growing tensions between the NC and UML.

The two parties also agreed to begin discussions with stakeholders on constitutional amendments. Amending the 2015 Constitution, which was promulgated amid violence in the Madhes region, remains a sensitive political issue, drawing both internal and external attention. The Madhes-based parties are also preparing to clarify their stance on the amendments. According to NC General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa, one of the CMP’s key elements will be the constitutional amendment, which aims to strengthen federalism, inclusive democracy, and proportional representation.

How the constitution amendment process will unfold in the run up to the 2027 national elections remains uncertain. NC and UML appear to be seeking changes to certain provisions, including the electoral system, which is likely to lead to strong opposition from progressive forces. Managing these issues will be challenging. 

As major parties gear up for constitutional amendments, the royalist Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) is preparing street protests, demanding the restoration of the monarchy and Nepal as a Hindu state. RPP Chairperson Rajendra Lingden also met with former King Gyanendra Shah this week. 

In another story this week, the newly-appointed Chief of Army Staff,  Ashok Raj Sigdel, outlined his priorities, focusing on national security, military diplomacy, internal reforms within the Nepali Army, and addressing delays in major infrastructure projects like the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast-Track.

Also this week, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane, who is under scrutiny for his alleged involvement in a fund embezzlement of a financial cooperative, admitted for the first time that media outlets, including his own Gorkha Media, misused the funds. Lamichhane also faced protests from embezzlement victims in Pokhara. Earlier, the RSP leader and former Home Minister was questioned for several hours by a parliamentary committee investigating his involvement in the cooperative scam. 

It is said Lamichhane has sought protection from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli against potential legal actions. 

Meanwhile, Nepali Congress leader Dhanraj Gurung has also been implicated in the cooperative scandal. He has expressed his willingness to face a parliamentary inquiry.

This week, NC, UML, and the Maoist party showed a rare unity to challenge Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s decision to extend the no-construction zone along riverbanks by an additional 20 meters. Prime Minister Oli has called for a review of the Supreme Court’s decision, reigniting his ongoing dispute with Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal continued to garner attention this week, as he is on a tour of the country, aiming to strengthen the party’s organizational base. Dahal is under pressure to solidify his party’s position after NC and UML opted not to form a pre-election alliance. He has also cautioned NC and UML against constitutional amendments that could undo “progressive agendas” enshrined in the 2015 Constitution.

Talks about the Nepal-India Eminent Persons’ Group (EPG) report resurfaced in national politics this week, with Prime Minister Oli once again urging Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to receive it. Former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai also raised the issue. 

Another significant political development this week concerned Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Indira Rana Magar, who could face impeachment for allegedly misusing her letterhead to request the US Embassy in Kathmandu to arrange visa interview dates for individuals not associated with her office. The ruling NC and UML are preparing to impeach Rana Magar. Rana Magar’s party, RSP, along with the Maoist Center and CPN (Unified Socialist), are expected to oppose the impeachment effort.

The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly kicked off in New York this week, with the resolution of conflicts as one of its main priorities. Prime Minister Oli is preparing to attend the assembly, marking his first international trip since assuming office. Oli, who will be accompanied by Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba, is expected to lay out Nepal’s position on regional and international issues during his address to the UN. The prime minister is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with various world leaders, including his Indian counterpart Modi, on the margins of the UN meeting.  

Bipul Pokhrel, the president of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), resigned this week, just ahead of the federation’s planned elections. The FNJ has long been grappling with internal disputes over membership distribution. Pokhrel’s resignation has added to the conflict and uncertainty within the federation.

Also this week, Deputy Prime Ministers and other ministers signed a performance agreement with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli outlining key tasks and goals for the current fiscal year. The agreement was signed and exchanged during a program held on Thursday at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar. A similar agreement was also signed between the Prime Minister and the Chief Secretary of the Government of Nepal.

The performance agreement aims to support the national vision of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ by ensuring timely completion of infrastructure projects and improvements in service delivery. However, while such agreements are routinely signed by new prime ministers, their implementation often falters due to frequent changes in ministers and the transfer of secretaries.

In his first address to the General Staff, newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) Ashok Raj Sigdel emphasized the Nepali Army’s crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. Sigdel outlined his strategic vision with a strong focus on national security, military diplomacy, organizational reforms and the welfare of army personnel.

On Aug 28, President Ramchandra Paudel appointed Sigdel to the position, to be effective from Sept 9. The outgoing Chief of Army Staff, Prabhu Ram Sharma, had been on a month-long leave since Aug 8 as part of his mandatory retirement. Sigdel will serve as CoAS for the next three years.

Sigdel’s address followed the formal ceremony where President Paudel conferred the insignia of the CoAS on Sigdel on Sept 9, marking the official transfer of leadership in the Nepali Army.

Sigdel began by reaffirming the core responsibility of the Nepali Army as enshrined in the Constitution of Nepal—protecting the country’s independence, sovereignty and geographical integrity. He highlighted that national unity remains the most powerful force in tackling the complex challenges Nepal faces, and called for the state’s mechanisms to work in tandem under a shared national security strategy.

Sigdel introduced a ‘Commander-in-Chief Command Guidance’ outlining seven key goals to enhance the army’s operational and strategic effectiveness. These goals prioritize areas such as national security, organizational strengthening, development of operational capabilities, modernizing military information systems, improving training and education, and expanding welfare services.

He stressed the importance of a credible and effective national security strategy, grounded in a ‘Whole of Nation Approach’. This would require the strengthening of national mechanisms to ensure that all state actors—military and civilian alike—develop a common understanding of Nepal’s security and defense needs. Sigdel assured that this approach will be operationalized in due course to fortify the country’s defense apparatus.

One of the central themes of Sigdel’s address was the role of military diplomacy in advancing Nepal’s foreign policy. He emphasized that military diplomacy will be strengthened to support national interests and security, ensuring that the army’s international engagements align closely with the country’s foreign policy objectives. Sigdel’s vision involves deepening military cooperation with Nepal’s international partners, positioning the national army as a key player in regional and global peace and security efforts.

Additionally, Sigdel highlighted the army’s ongoing commitment to national infrastructure projects. The ‘Bunker to Barrack’ program, which seeks to modernize army infrastructure, will continue as a priority, alongside key projects like the Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Fast Track. Sigdel emphasized that delays or irregularities in these projects will not be tolerated, reaffirming the army’s dedication to efficient project management.

Sigdel also focused on internal reforms, stressing that organizational discipline and integrity are paramount. He urged army personnel to act in the best interest of the institution, warning that actions undermining mutual trust or compromising the institution for personal gain would not be tolerated. The CoAS reiterated that military discipline and dignity remain the ‘first and last mantra’ of the army.

To ensure the army’s operational readiness, Sigdel announced plans to modernize military training and education, with a focus on practical skills suited to Nepal’s geography and strategic needs. This includes timely revisions of military training programs to enhance both tactical and leadership skills.

Sigdel unveiled several welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of army personnel and their families. The amount of scholarships provided to the children of Nepali Army personnel will be increased to Rs 25,000 annually for those studying from class 4 to 12. Additionally, the welfare pension for widows receiving family pensions will see an increase of Rs 500 per month.

Recognizing the Nepali Army’s vital role in disaster management, Sigdel stressed that the army’s disaster response capacity will be expanded to mitigate the impacts of natural calamities. He called for heightened preparedness, ensuring the army’s quick and effective response during national emergencies.

In a bid to support army personnel after retirement, Sigdel announced plans to expand professional and vocational training programs, in partnership with government agencies, to ensure retired personnel can transition into civilian life with dignity and self-respect.

Sigdel said the Nepali Army will continue its significant contributions to the development of national sports. Sports development will be prioritized by building on the army’s long history of nurturing national athletes, he maintained.

Moreover, to strengthen the relationship between the army and the public, Sigdel outlined a plan to engage in efforts to protect education, health, arts, culture and the environment. This will be done in a way that preserves military dignity while contributing to the nation’s social and cultural fabric.

The new CoAS underscored the need for improved management of peacekeeping operations, ensuring that Nepali soldiers maintain their reputation as disciplined and effective peacekeepers on the global stage. Special attention will be given to the training of peacekeeping forces and the provision of necessary equipment.

In his concluding remarks, Sigdel pledged to improve relations between the army and the media. He emphasized the need for greater harmony between the two to achieve national objectives, ensuring that the public is kept informed about the army’s efforts in protecting national security and contributing to national development.

Know your CoAS

Commander-in-Chief Ashok Raj Sigdel was born on 1 Feb 1967, in Bhairawa of Rupandehi district. He joined the military service in 1986 and, after completing basic officer cadet training, was appointed a Second Lieutenant in 1988. Sigdel has participated in various training, studies and seminars at home and abroad. He completed command and staff training from the Military Command and Staff College, Shivpuri, and higher command and management training from the Nepali Army War College, Nagarkot. Additionally, he has successfully completed the Defense Management Course from India and the National Defense Course (NDC) from China.

Sigdel has participated in peacekeeping missions in Yugoslavia (UNPROFOR), Tajikistan (UNMOT), and Liberia (UNMIL). Throughout his 38-year military career, he has served in several staff, command and teaching roles, including as coordinator of the Nepali Army in the Covid-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC). Prior to his appointment as CoAS, Sigdel served as Vice CoAS and Assistant CoAS. He holds a master’s degree in strategic studies from Tribhuvan University and the National Defense University, China.

Key priorities

• ‘Commander-in-Chief Command Guidance’ with seven goals, including strengthening national security, improving organizational effectiveness and modernizing military systems
• Enhancing military diplomacy to support Nepal’s foreign policy and align international engagements with national security interests
• ‘Bunker to Barrack’ program and efficient management of key projects like the Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Fast Track
• Greater organizational discipline and integrity, with a focus on upholding military dignity and preventing actions that undermine institutional trust
• Increased scholarships for army personnel’s children and higher pensions for widows. Plans to expand disaster management and professional training for retired personnel

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has stated that it will decide on the case involving Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar after observing the actions taken by the ruling parties. The controversy stems from a letter Rana Magar wrote to the US Embassy in February 2023, requesting a visa interview for an individual unrelated to the Parliament Secretariat. This move has raised concerns among the ruling parties, who questioned her actions, suggesting that the Deputy Speaker’s conduct has undermined the dignity of the office.

In response, the RSP held a secretariat meeting on Wednesday at its parliamentary party office in Singha Durbar. The party decided to adopt a ‘wait and see’ approach before taking any formal action. RSP Acting Spokesperson Manish Jha stated, “As it is not yet clear what the ruling parties will do, we have only discussed the matter without reaching a formal decision.” He added that the party is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond assertively if necessary.

While acknowledging that Rana Magar’s action of writing the letter for a visa interview was inappropriate, Jha said that the case that took place over 18 months ago is now being exploited for political gain.

Meanwhile, the Nepali Congress has called for the resignation of Deputy Speaker Rana Magar. During a meeting of top Congress leaders on Wednesday morning, the party concluded that Rana Magar had discredited the nation with her actions. Congress Chief Whip Shyam Ghimire said, “We believe she should choose to step down rather than face formal procedures.”

The letter in question requested visa interviews for five individuals to attend the 67th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. However, the individuals were unable to travel to the US. Following the public release of the letter, Deputy Speaker Rana Magar faced intense scrutiny and controversy.

During a joint meeting of Congress office bearers and former office holders, Ghimire emphasized that this is a significant issue. “This is not a trivial matter. The Deputy Speaker has acted inappropriately by bypassing the necessary foreign affairs procedures,” he said, adding that Parliament itself has been insulted by her actions.

The ruling coalition has reportedly begun preparations to remove Rana Magar from her post. A top-level meeting of Congress has decided to hold further discussions with coalition partners to push for her dismissal. Ghimire also mentioned that a meeting of the Congress parliamentary party will be called to deliberate on the matter.

On Monday evening, the ruling parties discussed the issue at a meeting held at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar. During Tuesday’s parliamentary session, members from both the opposition and ruling parties expressed their concerns about the Deputy Speaker’s actions.

Being raised in a society that discriminates based on caste is like having a continual cloud of uncertainty, anxiety and insecurity. This cloud represents a reality that affects every part of the life of individuals who belong to the untouchable castes, not just a metaphor. The caste system in which Dalits are reared determines their value and potential long before they have the opportunity to establish their own identities, which contributes directly to the inferiority complex that develops among Dalits.

A lifetime of covert and overt reminders of one’s ‘place’ in the social hierarchy fosters the development of this inferiority complex. Dalits are painfully made aware from an early age that they are ‘different’ and that everyone around them view them as inferior because of their caste. Whether it is through the condescending attitudes of teachers, the dismissive behavior of neighbors, or the whispered insults of classmates, the message is clear: Dalit are not equal, and they never will be.

The psyche is deeply scarred by these experiences. Dalits start to absorb the idea that they are essentially less valuable than other people and that, as a result of their caste identity, they should not be given the same opportunities and respect. Dalit’s self-fulfilling prophecy affects their relationships, confidence and capacity for success in life. A voice that murmurs, ‘You don’t really deserve this,’ lingers in the background of a Dalit’s mind even after they accomplish something notable. Colleagues who don’t value them often serve to confirm this doubt.

I recall a particular incident from my time working as a Deputy Team Leader for a consultancy firm. Most of the reports in that office were drafted by me, serving as the foundation for my colleagues’ work and ultimately receiving approval. Despite my central role in the team, I encountered a team leader and member from the management team who consistently treated me with disrespect. This wasn’t just a clash of personalities; it was a deep-seated issue that triggered my long-standing feelings of inferiority. Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue, I found myself on the defensive, constantly trying to prove my worth in the face of his dismissive attitude. This experience not only disrupted my work but also made me leave the office forever.

This sense of isolation is compounded by the lack of understanding or empathy from colleagues. When Dalits express anger or frustration, it is often met with confusion or defensiveness, rather than a genuine attempt to understand where they are coming from. Colleagues may see this anger as irrational or unjustified, not realizing that it stems from a lifetime of dealing with the subtle and not-so-subtle indignities of caste discrimination.

Dalits frequently experience a sense of alienation and a lack of belonging in jobs where the majority caste is higher. They are distinguished by their caste identities, and it is far too simple to blame any unfavorable encounters on these underlying distinctions. It feels less like a professional dispute and more like an attack on their identity when someone challenges or disagrees with their thoughts; they are being rejected not for the quality of their arguments but rather for the perceived inferiority of their caste.

There is a praiseworthy attempt in many contemporary organizations to develop gender-friendly cultures where workers of all genders are treated with decency and respect. In many workplaces, policies including the promotion of gender equality, gender sensitivity training, and zero tolerance for gender-based violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, and sexual harassment have become the norm. These initiatives aim to foster an environment at work where everyone, regardless of gender, feels safe, respected and appreciated in addition to following the law.

Caste should be subjected to the same degree of sensitivity and intolerance. It ought to be immoral to treat someone differently based on their caste, just as it is wrong to treat someone unfairly based on their gender. In order to guarantee that no one feels less than or uncomfortable due to their caste identification, offices have to be welcoming to Dalits.

To achieve this, workplaces must implement policies and practices that actively promote caste sensitivity. All staff members should get training on the effects of caste discrimination, the value of inclusivity and the necessity of treating everyone with respect. Team leaders and managers need to be especially aware of how caste dynamics might manifest in the workplace and try to foster a culture where all workers, regardless of caste, feel respected, safe, and supported.

Even after a careful search, it can be challenging to locate even one Dalit within a large organization! This is a result of their systematic exclusion rather than a lack of qualifications or ability on the part of Dalits. Understanding and being able to communicate with Dalits is crucial. It is even forbidden for a Dalit to pose inquiries at the office. Dalits are proven wrong even when they are correct. This concerns not just justice, but also fundamental human dignity.

Dalits are also human beings! Putting oneself in their shoes will help you understand their challenges. Reminding a Dalit of their ‘place’ each time serves to perpetuate an oppressive system that has no place in a fair and just society. 

Recognizing Dalits’ humanity and fostering an environment where they can flourish are more important goals of developing a Dalit-friendly workplace than merely following rules or checking boxes. It’s about making sure that no one’s caste identification causes them to feel inferior or unfit. We won't be able to start tearing down the profoundly embedded caste-based discrimination that still exists in our culture until workplaces are genuinely inclusive, considerate, and encouraging. Although achieving equality will not be simple, we must travel this route together.

The author is a sociologist 

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