UN experts concerned over retaliations against human rights defenders in Nepal

The experts expressed dismay at the heightened insecurity faced by human rights defenders and activists advocating for the demolition of the Chhaya Center and the restoration of the pond and surrounding land.

UN human rights experts voiced alarm today over reports of ongoing retaliations against human rights defenders in Nepal who oppose the development of the Chhaya Center retail and entertainment complex.

The experts condemned the retaliatory acts as "deplorable and unacceptable," emphasizing that targeting human rights defenders solely for exercising their right to freedom of opinion and expression violates international human rights norms.

Construction of the Chhaya Center in Kathmandu's Thamel tourist district has resulted in the destruction of the historic Kamal Pokhari pond and disrupted the daily rituals and cultural practices of the Indigenous Pradhan Newar community. Indigenous human rights defender Bhagabat Narsingh Pradhan, who has led the campaign to restore the pond, has faced threats and intimidation, including house visits by trade union leaders employed at the Chhaya Center and a contempt of court case filed against him.

The experts expressed dismay at the heightened insecurity faced by human rights defenders and activists advocating for the demolition of the Chhaya Center and the restoration of the pond and surrounding land.

They raised concerns about the involvement of Marriott International, a U.S.-based company operating the Aloft Kathmandu Thamel Hotel within the Chhaya Center despite an ongoing legal dispute over the land it occupies. The experts urged Marriott International to suspend its involvement until the Supreme Court reaches a final decision and to use its leverage to ensure non-retaliation against defenders and activists.

In light of Nepal's National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, the experts called on the government to implement guidance from the UN Working Group on human rights and transnational corporations to protect human rights defenders.

The experts urged the Government of Nepal to fulfill its duty to protect defenders and ensure accountability for any abuses, emphasizing the prompt resolution of court cases related to the Chhaya Center.

The UN experts have communicated their concerns to the Government of Nepal, relevant private companies including Chhaya Devi Complex Pvt. Ltd and Marriott International, as well as the U.S. government, but have yet to receive a response.