Kathmandu: A protest demanding justice for Nirmala Kurmi has reached its 81st day, with activists expressing frustration over the government’s inaction. The ongoing movement is part of the fifth phase of their campaign to seek accountability, but despite previous commitments, their demands remain unmet.
In an open letter addressed to the former Prime Minister and current leader of the Nepali Congress, the protesters reminded him of the investigative committee formed during his tenure. “Under your directive as Prime Minister, a committee was set up to investigate the Nirmala Kurmi case, and the report was submitted to then Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand. However, the recommendations have yet to be implemented,” the letter stated.
The activists criticized the government for repeatedly neglecting agreements reached over the past three years. “We placed our trust in four separate agreements, hoping they would be honored, but every time, the case was pushed into obscurity under the pretext of ongoing investigations,” the letter further noted.
The protesters also raised concerns over the government’s insensitivity toward women’s issues, pointing out that despite having a constitution and laws, the administration and police remain silent on Kurmi’s case. They demanded that the case be brought to court, expressing frustration over what they described as “systematic efforts to suppress the issue.”
Highlighting the hardships they have endured, the protesters mentioned that they have fallen ill with dengue, typhoid, and other ailments due to prolonged exposure to the elements. “Even during major festivals like Dashain, Raksha Bandhan, and Teej, we have continued our protests at Maitighar Mandala, trying to reach the government with our voices,” they said.
The letter also recounted the activists’ efforts to seek justice by visiting key government offices, including the Prime Minister’s residence and the President’s office at Sheetal Niwas, only to be met with disappointment.
They expressed anger over how previous governments, including the current ruling coalition, have failed to honor past agreements. Activists accused authorities of “false criminal charges” against innocent family members of protesters and warned that they continue to receive threats from those implicated in Kurmi’s case.
The letter emphasized that human rights violations have persisted for 244 days over the past three years, with activists being monitored and their movements restricted. Despite having adequate evidence, the government has yet to present the Nirmala Kurmi case to court, forcing the protesters to return to the streets repeatedly.
The activists concluded their letter by urging the former Prime Minister to take special action and ensure the case is brought before the court without further delay.
