Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal today directed authorities to punish anyone found perpetrating gender-based violence.
The PM asked government bodies to provide timely justice to victims. According to Nepal, the country can rid itself of gender-based violence if the concerned bodies collaborate with each other. Terming domestic violence a ‘disgrace' to the country, he called for formulation of women-friendly policies at all levels.
Addressing an interaction organised by the Prime Minister's Office, in context of the National Action Plan 2010 to end gender-based violence in Nepal, the Prime Minister said the action plan was an example of government sensitivity to the woes of Nepali women.
He also directed authorities to take necessary measures to minimise harassment against women in public transportation. “The plight of women journalists at their work place should also be brought to the limelight,” said Nepal. The action plan was formulated as part of the government declaration to observe 2010 as ‘ year to end gender-based violence'.
Women cells are in place in police offices throughout the country to curb gender based violence. IGP Ramesh Chandra Thakuri said awareness programmes on domestic violence were being conducted in various parts in collaboration with NGOs and locals as per the action plan.
He also informed that of the total 244 gender-based violence cases filed with the police this year, 178 had already been resolved and the remaining were being investigated. Madhav Ghimire, chief secretary at PMO, said 65 discriminatory laws had been amended and 55 were in the process of amendment.
