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Ruling Nepali Congress’ department of non-governmental organization affairs in favor of vibrant and transparent civic space

Any attempt to restrict the freedom of association or civic engagement is unacceptable. The government must respect and protect the rights and independence of NGOs: Dr Rana Bahadur Rawal

Kathmandu: The Department of Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Affairs of the ruling Nepali Congress (NC) has expressed serious concern over increasing threats to civic space and freedom of association in Nepal.

As the government considers introducing a new law to regulate NGOs, the department has formally taken a stand against any move that could undermine the independent functioning of civil society organizations.

On Friday, a delegation led by Dr Rana Bahadur Rawal, head of the department, along with Ramesh Dhamala, president of the Federation of Democratic NGOs Nepal (FEDEN), met with Nepali Congress president and former prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. The meeting focused on the proposed Social Development Bill, which the government is reportedly preparing to table.

The delegation emphasized the need for a one-window policy to better manage and coordinate NGOs, but stressed that such a policy must be developed through inclusive and transparent consultation. Participation of all stakeholders is essential before drafting any law that impacts the civic sector, the team said.

[Related: Civic movement is the cornerstone of democracy]

NGOs in Nepal have long played a critical role in raising awareness, improving service delivery, and strengthening local governance. Meeting participants underscored that these contributions must be acknowledged and built upon through appropriate policy and institutional reforms.

“No law should be introduced that takes a restrictive approach toward NGOs,” Dr Rawal said. “The proposed bill should not override the autonomy and rights granted to NGOs by the Social Welfare Act of 1992. Instead, the new legislation should include provisions that facilitate and ease operations.”

Concerns were also raised about potential clauses in the draft bill that could dilute the identity and core values of NGOs. Participants warned that any move to undermine their role could ultimately harm Nepal’s democratic foundations and further shrink civic space.

According to Dr Rawal, NC president Sher Bahadur Deuba acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and assured the delegation of NC’s commitment to protecting an open and liberal civic space and pledged to push for broad consultations before any decision is made regarding the bill.