An eight-member human rights delegation visiting Nepal to investigate the living conditions of the ex-British-Gurkha servicemen and their families is certain to provide some breather for this lot that has long been seeking justice from the British government and calling for an end to all discrimination against them and their dependents. The delegation comprising leading human rights barristers and activists from across the world will prepare a report on the conditions facing the Gurkhas, the plight of their widows who are still awaiting confirmation of their husbands’ fate, and the pension, perks and other benefit issues. The socio-economic condition in the areas from where the Gurkhas are mainly recruited, and the kinds of discriminations facing the Gurkhas for decades will also come under review. It is scheduled to submit its findings to the British government in August. The visit is taking place as per the commitment made by the British defence secretary Geoff Hoon in January “to ensure that such differences are absolutely justifiable.”

This is by all means a welcome development and is also supported by the Gurkha Army Ex-Servicemen’s Organisation (GAESO) as part of their continuing campaign for “fair and equal treatment” to them and their families by the British government. It is nonetheless unfortunate that after setting such a notable legacy in the British Army for more than 200 years now, thereby laying the cornerstone of Nepal-Britain relations, the issues of poverty after retirement, selective citizenship, among others, still encase the gallant Gurkhas. It is only fair to fight for one’s rights in return for the services rendered. The delegation, therefore, should see to it that the grievances of the Gurkhas are addressed, and the issues, some of which have even been legally battled in the British courts, justly dealt with. Though some progress has been made in the past, the delegation should look into the disparities prevalent in the benefits and perks provided to the ex-Gorkhas and their British counterparts. The team can play a critical role by reflecting the real picture of the problems confronting the ex-British Gurkhas and the assistance they need to overcome their concerns, which should actually have been tackled a long time back.