NHRC Urges KMC to Address Youth Activist’s Health and Demands

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called upon the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office to prioritize the health of youth activist Ishan Shakya, known as “Iih,” who has been staging a sit-in protest outside the city hall. NHRC has also urged them to engage in dialogue to address the demands raised by the demonstrators.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, the NHRC, a constitutional body, revealed that a high-level team led by its member Lily Thapa had conducted an on-site study of the situation on Tuesday.

“The commission’s attention has been drawn to the health situation of ‘Iih,’ who has been standing outside the National Assembly Hall for the past eight days, demanding proper management and an alternative place for street vendors,” the statement read. “In response, a high-level team, led by commission member Lily Thapa, conducted an on-site study on Tuesday.”

During their investigation, NHRC officials engaged in conversations with Iih, fellow protesters, and street vendors.

The protesters have expressed their dissatisfaction with the Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s response, stating that their concerns have not been taken seriously. The NHRC is actively pursuing discussions with metropolis officials to find a resolution to the issue.

The matter raised by Iih directly relates to the principles outlined in the Constitution of Nepal. Article 17 (f) of the Constitution guarantees the freedom of profession, employment, and the establishment and operation of industry, trade, and business in any territory of Nepal. Furthermore, Article 33 of the Constitution enshrines the right to employment.