Every human being is born free and equal. Regardless of where we are born, what we do, who we are, our gender, caste, religion, or economic status, we all have certain basic freedoms simply because we are human. These are called human rights. They protect our life, dignity, freedom, and access to justice. In Nepal, these rights are not only recognized by the country’s Constitution but also protected under international law. However, despite these legal protections, many people in Nepal are unaware of what rights they truly have.
What are Human Rights?
Human rights refer to those freedoms and protections that belong to every person. They are not given by the state or any authority; they are inherent. Human rights include the right to life, freedom of expression, belief in any religion, equality before the law, access to education and health, and protection from torture or cruel treatment. These rights are considered universal, which means they apply to everyone. They are inalienable, meaning they cannot be taken away. And they are indivisible, meaning all rights are equally important and must be respected together.
In Nepal, human rights are guaranteed in the Constitution of Nepal, 2072. This Constitution is known for being progressive and inclusive, with a whole Chapter 3, dedicated to fundamental rights and duties. There are 31 different rights listed as fundamental rights. Some of the key rights include the right to equality, which ensures that everyone is equal before the law and that no one should face discrimination based on caste, sex, or religion. The right to freedom allows individuals to express their thoughts, form associations, and move freely. The right to education ensures that every child receives free and compulsory basic education. The Constitution also guarantees the right to health, providing that everyone has access to basic healthcare services. Victims of injustice have the right to seek justice through the courts, and no one should be subjected to torture or degrading treatment. The right to privacy protects personal and family life, while the right to constitutional remedies allows people to go directly to the Supreme Court if their rights are violated.
Apart from national laws, Nepal is also a signatory to several important international human rights treaties. These include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and the Convention against Torture (CAT). By signing these treaties, Nepal has committed to upholding the human rights of all its citizens and those living within its territory.
Despite these legal guarantees, many human rights issues still exist in Nepal. One of the biggest issues is gender discrimination. Although laws have been passed to promote gender equality, many women, marginalized and minority groups still face violence, unequal treatment at work, and low representation in political and economic sectors. In rural areas, harmful practices like dowry demands, Chhaupadi, child marriage, and witch-hunting are still reported. Caste-based discrimination also continues, particularly against Dalits. Even though untouchability is illegal, Dalits often face social exclusion, especially in rural communities. Children’s rights are another area of concern. Child labor, trafficking, and early marriage affect thousands of children across Nepal. Similarly, access to justice is a challenge for many. Courts are slow, legal processes are expensive, and some officials are corrupt, making it difficult for poor or marginalized people to get justice. Freedom of expression is also under threat at times, with journalists and human rights defenders facing threats or harassment for speaking out.
If someone’s rights are violated in Nepal, they should take action. The first step is to file a complaint at the local police station or ward office. This is called a First Information Report (FIR). If the authorities do not act, the victim can go to court. According to Article 133 of the Constitution, the Supreme Court of Nepal has the power to hear writ petitions when fundamental rights are violated. Apart from courts, victims can also approach the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which investigates human rights violations and helps people get justice. There are also several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Nepal, such as the Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC), the Forum for Women, Law and Development (FWLD), and Child Workers in Nepal (CWIN), that provide legal aid, counselling, and support to victims.
However, protecting human rights is not just the government’s job. Every citizen has a role to play. People should first educate themselves about their rights by reading the Constitution or learning from legal awareness programs. Educating friends, family, and communities about rights can create a more aware and responsible society. And, when people demand justice, it must be done through peaceful and legal means, such as writing, campaigning, or using the courts.
Young people in Nepal can play a powerful role in promoting human rights. Law students, for example, can provide free legal help or conduct rights-based awareness programs in schools and villages. Youth can use social media to highlight issues and educate the public and different websites also work to provide knowledge about human rights i.e. Notary Sewa, Law Manthan and so on. Joining student groups or local organizations can help youth become active in protecting rights and creating change.
Nepal’s legal system offers several remedies for the violation of rights. The most important remedy is the writ petition. There are five types of writs under Nepalese law. Habeas Corpus protects individuals from illegal detention. Mandamus is used to compel a government official to do their duty. Certiorari allows courts to cancel illegal decisions made by lower authorities. Prohibition prevents authorities from taking illegal actions, and Quo Warranto questions whether a person is legally holding a public office. Victims of violence or abuse can also claim compensation under various laws, such as the Torture Compensation Act. Courts can issue protection orders for women or children at risk. These remedies make it possible for citizens to not only claim their rights but also receive justice and protection.
Nepal is slowly improving in the field of human rights. There have been positive steps, such as greater recognition of third-gender rights, more focus on digital privacy, and increased attention to human rights education in schools. Issues like citizenship rights for women and gender minorities are now openly discussed, though they still need stronger legal solutions. The digital age has also brought new challenges and opportunities. With rising use of social media and the internet, concerns about online privacy, misinformation, and digital rights are becoming more important. At the same time, digital tools have helped people organize, report violations, and spread awareness like never before.
Understanding human rights is not just a legal matter, it’s a way to create a fair and peaceful society. When rights are respected, people live with dignity and confidence. They feel safe to express their opinions, practice their faith, and live freely. Justice becomes a reality, not just an idea. Marginalized groups feel included, and democracy grows stronger. But when rights are denied, people suffer, fear increases, and power is abused. Inequality and silence replace freedom and justice.
In conclusion, human rights are your daily shield. They protect your life, your voice, your freedom, and your dignity. Nepal has the Constitution and the laws to protect these rights. The country has signed international treaties that promise to uphold them. But awareness is still low, and action is often delayed. That’s why you, as a citizen, must know your rights, stand up for them, and help others do the same. Change does not always come from the top. It often begins with one informed voice, one act of courage, or one helping hand. Let us learn our rights, raise our voices, and build a Nepal where every human being lives with freedom, safety, and respect.