House of Rep declare Nepal a 'discrimination free' nation

Kathmandu, June 5 (UNI) The House of Representative in Nepal declared the Himalayan kingdom as an 'untouchability and discrimination free' country, in an effort to bring the marginalised people to the national mainstream.

The proposal of public importance, tabled by CPN-UML MP Parashuram Meghi Gurung, passed unanimously by the House, is expected to ensure a fair representation of Dalits -- comprising almost 20 per cent of the population.

''The practice of untouchability will now onwards be considered as a social crime and the government will enact laws in such a way that the inhuman and discriminatory practices are more punishable,'' a newspaper quoted Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Narendra Bikram Nembang as saying.

A new Bill will soon be introduced in this regard, he added.

Lower caste people are considered untoucables in Nepal.

UNI XC VJ VV1230