Shah government losing its human face

The administration led by Balendra Shah in Nepal is facing criticism for a perceived disconnect from the needs of its most vulnerable citizens, even as it achieves notable improvements in service delivery. While many Nepalis appreciate the faster provision of services, such as driving licenses, and increased staffing at state institutions, a growing concern is that the government's focus on aesthetics and efficiency overlooks the plight of the poorest segments of society.

This perceived lack of a "human face" is starkly illustrated by the ongoing struggles of thousands of squatters forcibly removed from their homes. Promised swift resettlement, they have instead been left in poorly equipped temporary shelters, now threatened by monsoon rains. The government's decision to use force without a concrete resettlement plan has been labeled a "travesty," prioritizing urban aesthetics over the basic needs and rights of its citizens. Tragically, two displaced squatters have died by suicide.

Adding to the concerns is the recent death by suicide of Ganesh Nepali, a daily-wage earner who relied on ride-hailing for income. His family states he was driven to despair by routine fines for minor traffic violations, culminating in an inability to pay a Rs1,000 fine. This incident underscores a broader issue of aggressive traffic enforcement under the new government, with threats of substantial fines that disproportionately affect low-income individuals who depend on their vehicles for livelihood.

While the government has implemented faster service delivery and generational change, critics argue that its policies often favor the middle and upper classes. The focus on steep fines, without concurrent improvements in road and traffic infrastructure, creates an "unjust arrangement." For those earning significantly less, such fines represent a substantial burden, pushing them towards desperation, as seen in Nepali's tragic case. The article suggests that a democratic government must be both clean and efficient, but also humane and equitable in its approach to governance.