Historic Nepalese Chautara Allegedly Encroached, Investigation Ordered

A historic public chautara, estimated to be around 200 years old, has reportedly disappeared from Hospital Chowk in Diktel Bazaar, Khotang, Nepal. Locals allege that the site, a significant spot for religious, cultural, and social traditions, has been encroached upon and integrated into the courtyard of a private house.

Traditionally used by communities including the Newa, Basnet, Khadka, and Damai for funeral rites, ancestor worship, and other ceremonies, the chautara's disappearance has caused concern. According to Bishnukumar Shrestha ‘Syande’, Chairperson of Diktel Bazaar Social Guthi, an adjacent private house was constructed in 2078 BS (approximately 2021-2022), after which the chautara site was leveled and incorporated into the property's courtyard.

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A private house was built on adjacent land in 2078 BS, after which the chautara site was levelled and incorporated into the courtyard.

Land records indicate that the site is registered as public chautara and public water-spout land, with an old stone water spout known as Mul Dhara still present. Five years after the chautara vanished, locals filed a complaint with the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in July.

The Prime Minister's office has since instructed the District Administration Office, Khotang, to investigate the alleged encroachment. The individual accused of encroachment, Narayankaji Shrestha, has denied the allegations, asserting that his house was built entirely on his own land.

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He has denied the accusation, claiming that he built his house entirely on his own land.