KATHMANDU, AUGUST 29

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the government to conclude the transitional justice process in a manner that earns the trust of conflict victims.

The fate of many individuals who were forcibly disappeared during the decade-long armed conflict remains unknown, a matter the government must take seriously while finalizing the peace process, the NHRC reminded.

Issuing a press statement on the occasion of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances (August 30), NHRC Spokesperson Dr. Tikaram Pokharel called on the government to disclose the whereabouts of those who were forcibly disappeared.

'The transitional justice mechanism must win the trust of victims, and the cases of enforced disappearances must be investigated in a fair and credible manner. The NHRC's recommendations in this regard must be implemented,' the statement read. It further urged the government and all concerned stakeholders to ensure justice and reparation for victim families, while prosecuting those responsible for the disappearances.

The NHRC expressed concern that nearly two decades after the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Accord, the fate of the disappeared remains unresolved and conflict-affected communities are still waiting for justice.

The rights of victims' families to be informed about their loved ones remain violated, alongside their cultural rights and entitlements to relief and compensation, Spokesperson Pokharel added.

The Commission also reported that it has made 226 recommendations to the government regarding investigations into enforced disappearances, questioning the government's apathy in failing to implement them.

It further expressed dismay that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission continues to remain ineffective despite repeated attempts at reconstitution.

(With inputs from Rastriya Samchar Samiti)