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KATHMANDU: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called upon the government to arrange for the repatriation of deceased individuals who have perished in foreign conflicts and ensure that they are cremated according to their respective religious customs and rituals. Dr. Tikaram Pokharel, the Commission's spokesperson, issued a press statement on Sunday urging the government to take diplomatic measures to provide medical treatment for the injured and facilitate the safe return of those awaiting repatriation.
Additionally, the NHRC has made an appeal to the government to prioritize the protection of Kritu Bhandari's life, who has been on a hunger strike in Kathmandu for 17 days. Bhandari is a relative of one of the Nepali nationals serving in the Russian Army. Alongside other family members of war victims, Bhandari is demanding the immediate release and rescue of their relatives serving in the Russian military.
Emphasizing the government's responsibility to ensure the safety and protection of Nepali citizens abroad, regardless of their circumstances or location, the NHRC highlighted the urgency of rescuing Nepalis stranded in conflict zones. It has been reported that 39 Nepali individuals serving in the Russian Army have lost their lives during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with others sustaining injuries and undergoing medical treatment.
Moreover, the NHRC conducted an inspection of the hunger strike site at Ratnapark following complaints from families of those affected by the conflict. The Commission noted the fragile health condition of Kritu Bhandari, underscoring the need for immediate attention to the demands raised by the protesters. Furthermore, the NHRC reiterated its previous call to the government, issued on December 16 last year, to address the risks faced by Nepali citizens abroad and curb illegal migration for foreign employment.
