Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kathmandu (Fides Service) - In a recent report the International Crisis Group declared the human rights crisis in Nepal out of all control. The think-tank avails of observers and experts all over the world. The same concern was voiced by the United Nations Human Rights Commission after the suspension of the Constitution and declaration of state of emergency decided by the government 1 February following attacks by Maoist rebels.
Last year the same Commission warned that Maoist rebels were operating illegally and that also the regular Nepalese army was acting in impunity. During its 61st session in Geneva 14 March to 22 April the United Nations Commission for Human Rights said it would consider sending a mission to Nepal to verify respect for universal human rights standards considered at this time far below the acceptable level with serious harm to civilians.
Maoist rebels are accused of extortion, coercion, terrorising the people with an authoritarian regime in certain areas, rural districts mainly. The Commission also accuses the regular army of illegal detention, torture, executions without trial.
International Crisis Group says in Nepal there is a “a serious humanitarian crisis” and demands certain priorities: guarantee freedom for every individual, allow a UN mission to enter the country to inspect the situation, the government of Nepal and Maoist rebels must sign a pact to guarantee respect for human rights. The government should re-establish constitutional rights suspended 1 February 2005, sign Geneva Protocol on respect for human rights and ratify the statutes of the International Penal Court.
It calls on Maoist rebels to cease all hostilities and vexation of defenceless people, respect rights of civilians and stop intimidation and extortion and cooperate with international observers.
Catholics are also concerned although the right to freedom of religious and religious practice have not been affected .
In Nepal for nine years Maoist rebel groups have been fighting to overthrow the monarchy and install a communist regime. At least 11,000 people have been killed in the fighting. Recent attempts to mediate or start negotiations failed and the rebels still control areas of the country.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 27/4/2005 righe 28 parole 295)
