Kathmandu, April 27 — A delegation from Dalit Initiative (DI) met with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hon. Bishnu Poudel on April 27 to press for the inclusion of critical Dalit-related issues in the upcoming government policy, programs, and national budget.
The DI delegation include Chairperson Rup Sunar, Secretary Resham BK and Immediate Past President JB Biswokarma. During the meeting, the delegation presented a set of urgent demands focused on ensuring social justice, equitable resource allocation, and targeted programs for marginalized communities, particularly Dalits.
The team urged the Finance Minister to prioritize measures aimed at addressing caste-based discrimination, improving access to education and employment, and strengthening economic opportunities for Dalit communities. The team also highlighted the need for increased accountability and monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective implementation of such policies.
During the discussion with the Finance Minister, key demands were raised to ensure the proportional and inclusive representation of Dalits in all state bodies through special programs and the establishment of a Social Inclusion Division under the Prime Minister’s Office. The discussion emphasized the need for a socialist economy that guarantees Dalits’ equitable access to resources and opportunities; called for targeted poverty alleviation measures including scientific land reform, housing rights, skill development academy and modernization of traditional occupations with financial support. Addressing employment discrimination, the proposals included measures like ‘One House One Employment,’ ‘One School One Dalit Teacher,’ and reservation in the private sector. A strong call was made for the eradication of caste-based discrimination through educational reforms, punitive policies, inter-caste marriage incentives, and a five-year Dalit rights plan. The implementation of Article 40 of the Constitution through a unified Dalit Rights Act and execution of the Dalit Resolution passed from the National Assembly was urged, alongside the formation of a Dalit Development Authority and strengthening of the National Dalit Commission with sufficient resources and decentralized structures.
Deputy Prime Minister Poudel acknowledged the concerns raised and expressed his commitment to reviewing the proposals during the policy and budget formulation process. DI will continue to engage with relevant government bodies to ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are reflected in national development priorities