KATHMANDU, Aug 24: Voices of the conflict victims have grown louder as they caution against the passage of a transitional justice bill that threatens to compromise the justice system by granting amnesty to perpetrators. They call for the swift amendment to the Transitional Justice Bill to align with the directives of the Supreme Court and international human rights standards.
Amid ongoing political deliberations over potential amendments to the bill, currently stalled in a parliamentary sub-committee, victims representing various regions convened in the capital on Tuesday. They issued a 33-point ‘Kathmandu Manifesto’ that denounces any notion of enacting a law that could provide amnesty to individuals implicated in grave human rights violations.
Suman Adhikari, a participant and former president of Sajha Chautari, expressed concern over the government's pursuit of an amnesty bill, asserting it undermines the victims' right to justice. Adhikari articulated their collective stance and emphasized that the bill's content must align with their shared interests, advocating a harmonious convergence of the bill with the Kathmandu Manifesto's principles.
The victims have urged parliament to incorporate the amendments they initially discussed with the then law minister, Gobinda Bandi, during consultations held in 2079 BS. In a continued effort to amplify their concerns, the victims also released the Kathmandu Manifesto to address apprehensions associated with the bill.
Denouncing the paradox of Nepal's membership in the Human Rights Council juxtaposed with persistent challenges in the realm of transitional justice, the victims highlight a decades-long need for rectification. Their resolve echoes United Nations' advice that the current provisions of amnesty within the pending bill could obstruct the accountability of individuals implicated in severe human rights violations during the conflict.
Moreover, the victims propose that the list of serious crimes be extended to include heinous acts of sexual violence, crimes against humanity, mutilation, and rape. Their appeal encompasses all conflict victims, notably those who have not yet attained victim status and who endured torture and sexual violence. The demand emphasizes the prompt identification and provision of immediate relief and support to all affected individuals.