DistantNews

Tribhuvan University Vows to Reclaim Encroached Land Amidst Implementation Hurdles

From Kathmandu Post · (1d ago) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Tribhuvan University decided to reclaim approximately 129 hectares of encroached land.
  • The university has initiated a recovery process and plans to take action against those involved in misuse and embezzlement.
  • However, implementation faces obstruction from staff and professors' unions accused of unlawfully leasing university land.

Tribhuvan University has announced a decisive move to reclaim vast tracts of encroached land, a decision formally approved over a week ago. A government-commissioned probe revealed that roughly 2,539 ropanis, equivalent to about 129 hectares, have been illegally occupied or misused. The university's leadership, under Vice-Chancellor Deepak Aryal, has stated that the recovery process is underway and vowed to pursue legal action against individuals involved in embezzlement and misuse of these valuable assets.

Despite the clear directive and the initiation of the recovery process, the enforcement of this decision appears to be encountering significant resistance. Sources indicate that staff and professors allegedly linked to the long-standing encroachment have actively blocked the implementation. While the university spokesperson confirmed that the decision was officially communicated, the unions representing these staff and professors are reportedly objecting to the move, having been accused of unlawfully leasing out university land for decades and collecting rent.

We will also move against those involved in misuse and embezzlement.

— Deepak AryalVice-chancellor of Tribhuvan University, stating the university's intention to take action against those responsible for land misuse.

The university has outlined an eight-point plan, including publishing the probe report and issuing a 35-day public notice for occupants to vacate. However, the pace of action has been slow, with progress only accelerating after a new government took office. The situation highlights a deep-seated issue of land encroachment and potential corruption within the institution, with ongoing efforts to navigate internal opposition and ensure the recovery of university property for its intended purposes.

Implementation has begun. Encroached land will be reclaimed, and those responsible will face action.

— Navindra BhandariSpokesperson for Tribhuvan University, assuring that the decision to reclaim land is being implemented.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.