KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 26

Finance Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat has pledged to allocate a budget according to the capacity for women's empowerment and the enhancement of their rights.

Inaugurating the 16-Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence at the National Women's Commission today, the Minister stated, 'Presently, a budget exceeding the State's capacity is being allocated for social security allowances, with a significant portion dedicated to infrastructure developments. Despite this scenario, women's empowerment remains a government priority through various means.'

The Minister emphasized that a democratic system is imperative for protecting and implementing citizens' rights. He added that vulnerable communities often face physical, mental, and economic violence, necessitating legal and structural addressal of the situation.

Chairperson of the National Women's Commission, Kamala Kumari Parajuli, highlighted that although women have achieved political rights constitutionally, effective implementation remains lacking. She stressed the need for combined efforts among State bodies and citizens to bridge this gap.

Dr. Janaki Kumari Tuladhar, a commissioner of the Election Commission, mentioned that despite the Constitutional provision for a minimum of 33 percent women's participation in each State apparatus, achieving 41 percent participation in the last local elections was a significant milestone.

The Commission has submitted a draft of revised laws to the government, aiming to address loopholes in electoral laws.

Krishna Kumari Paudel Khatiwada, a member of the National Women's Commission, expressed concerns that women's issues often take a backseat in political leadership, prioritizing power gains. Dr. Anita Sah Dhungana from the National Planning Commission stated that the upcoming 16th periodic plan incorporates issues related to the economic empowerment of women.