Kathmandu, May 4: It’s jolly well apparent that there’s a clamour for granting non-resident Nepali (NRN) citizenship with full economic, social, and cultural rights, all in alignment with the constitutional provisions.
During a key discussion at the Non-Resident Nepali Association’s Unity Convention, the air was thick with concerns. Participants voiced their dissatisfaction about the lack of proper implementation of constitutional citizenship rights for NRNs. Nepal Constitution.
AC Sherpa, a prominent NRN leader, highlighted that this issue impacts Nepalis residing in 84 nations. He stressed the need for their homeland to address these concerns earnestly.
Former NRNA President, Kul Acharya, lamented that while NRNs can travel to Nepal, their rights stop there. South Asian neighbours like India, he noted, have moved towards dual citizenship for their diaspora. India Citizenship.
Khagendra GC, a US-based advocate, opined that limited economic rights hinder NRNs from tapping into opportunities in Nepal, a concern echoed by many. Paints quite a vivid picture, doesn’t it?
Interestingly, Senior Advocate Balkrishna Neupane revealed that 72 countries have embraced dual citizenship, suggesting that reconsidering Clause 10 of the Citizenship Act-2063 BS might just create a welcoming ambiance for investments.
NRNA UK Chair, Prem Gaha Magar, brought up a pertinent point. Many Nepalis abroad hold second-class citizenship, subject to abrupt revocation during crises. Thus, securing citizenship by descent from Nepal seems imperative.
A united front was presented by advocates like Kapil Dhakal and Surendra Shrestha. They, along with NRNA Vice-President Rabina Thapa and leader Yogendra Bahadur Chhetri, called for action.
In response, Pushkar Nepal, Under-Secretary at the Ministry of Law, promised steps to address these heartfelt pleas in new legislation. NRNA Initiatives.
How does this narrative sit with you?
| Country | Policy on Dual Citizenship |
|---|---|
| India | Allows for Overseas Citizenship |
| Nepal | Currently restrictive |
| UK | Permits dual citizenship |
The path ahead seems clear: Nepal must ponder on how to best support its diaspora, embracing them as vibrant contributors to its future.
