Four Bhutanese Lotshampa refugees have recently filed an appeal in Nepal’s Supreme Court, challenging a government order that would deport them from the country. Aasis Subedi, Santosh Darji, Roshan Tamang, and Ashok Gurung were resettled in the United States through a UN refugee program, but were unexpectedly deported back to Bhutan in April of this year. This decision has sparked outrage and concern among human rights activists and refugee advocates.
The four refugees, who have been living in Nepal for over two decades, were forced to flee their homes in Bhutan due to political persecution and discrimination. They have been living in refugee camps in Nepal since then, hoping for a better future for themselves and their families. After years of waiting, they were finally given the opportunity to start a new life in the United States through the UN refugee program.
However, their dreams were shattered when they were deported back to Bhutan without any warning or explanation. This sudden decision has left them in a state of shock and uncertainty. The refugees have now turned to the Nepal’s Supreme Court for justice and to fight for their right to live in a safe and secure environment.
The appeal filed by the four refugees highlights the violation of their basic human rights. They argue that the government’s decision to deport them is against international laws and treaties that Nepal is a signatory to. It also goes against the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the deportation of refugees to a country where they may face persecution or danger.
The refugees’ lawyer, Sushil Pyakurel, stated that the government’s decision to deport them is a clear violation of their right to life, liberty, and security. He also added that the refugees were not given a fair chance to present their case or seek legal assistance before being deported.
This case has brought to light the challenges faced by refugees in Nepal. Despite being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, Nepal does not have a specific law or policy to protect the rights of refugees. This has resulted in a lack of legal protection for refugees, leaving them vulnerable to arbitrary decisions by the government.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has also expressed concern over the deportation of the four refugees. In a statement, the UNHCR urged the government of Nepal to respect its international obligations and ensure that the rights of refugees are protected.
The appeal filed by the four refugees has received widespread support from human rights organizations and refugee advocates. They have called on the government of Nepal to reconsider its decision and provide a safe and secure environment for the refugees to live in.
The case of these four refugees is not an isolated incident. There are thousands of refugees living in Nepal who are facing similar challenges and uncertainties. It is high time for the government of Nepal to take concrete steps to protect the rights of refugees and provide them with a dignified life.
The international community also has a role to play in this matter. It is crucial for countries to come together and find a long-term solution for the refugees living in Nepal. The UNHCR and other international organizations must work closely with the government of Nepal to ensure that the rights of refugees are protected and they are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives in a safe and secure environment.
The appeal filed by Aasis Subedi, Santosh Darji, Roshan Tamang, and Ashok Gurung is not just a fight for their own rights, but for the rights of all refugees living in Nepal. It is a call for justice and a plea for a better future. Let us hope that the Nepal’s Supreme Court will uphold the principles of justice and human rights and provide a fair and just decision for these four refugees.
