Gurkhas Demand End to ‘Discriminatory’ Citizenship Renunciation Requirement

Gurkha soldiers recruited under the terms of the Sugauli Treaty have called for an end to the provision requiring them and their families to renounce Nepali citizenship for life.

Speaking at the 40th anniversary of the Gurkhas Intake 1985, organized for the first time in Nepal, the Gurkhas emphasized their right to retain Nepali citizenship despite serving in the British Army.

Sher Bahadur Sunar, founder president of the organization and chief coordinator of the event, urged the Government of Nepal to ensure that British Gurkha soldiers and their families are not classified as non-resident citizens. “A bilateral agreement between Nepal and the UK should be made to address this long-standing discrimination and honor the sentiments of British Gurkhas,” he stated.

Chairman Lal Bahadur Limbu highlighted that celebrating the anniversary in Nepal was a way to express their enduring love for their homeland and encourage fellow Gurkhas to stay connected to their roots.

Other speakers, including Vice President Pramila Rai, General Secretary Bijaya Gurung, and former President Narayan Bhandari, underscored the significant role played by Gurkhas in strengthening Nepal-UK relations.

The event featured cultural performances and the felicitation of various personalities.

Since 2004, the British government has provided residential rights to Gurkha soldiers and their families. The recruitment of Nepali youth into the British Army dates back 210 years, with annual enlistments continuing under the 1947 tripartite agreement between Nepal, India, and Britain.

The 482 Gurkhas recruited in 1985 commemorate their intake year annually, reinforcing their shared history and contributions.