KATHMANDU: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today urged the government to address the issue of squatters and landless people across the country and prevent the arbitrary seizure of public and private properties.

NHRC, in a press statement, expressed serious concerns about the activities of All Nepal Landless Squatters' Association, Unified CPN-Maoist, CPN-Maoist and Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum. NHRC maintained that the aforementioned had been capturing land, property and food grains in various parts of the country.

The statement further mentioned that capturing of property of others was against the 'rule of law' and added that it was promoting culture of impunity in the country. The activities are also against the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the statement stressed. "The government should address the agendas of tillers, bonded labourers, landless farmers, squatters and people displaced due to natural disasters" stated the statement urging for formulating policies regarding the problems.

Furthermore, the government should identify real squatters, bonded labourers and tillers and should ensure their rights to live in dignity, the statement added.

The state should have clear provision regarding land, that one can hold and should stop illegal encroachment.

NHRC further urged that its recommendations be implemented and that international convention be followed while formulating land reform act.