May 01, Kathmandu - While the nation celebrates the 2568th Buddha Jayanti, the government has sparked controversy by demolishing a monastery in Balkhu, Kathmandu. Early Friday morning, authorities used a dozer to dismantle the Sange Chöling Gumba, located amidst a settlement of landless squatters.

The monastery, registered on Kartik 13, 2078, was situated within a vulnerable settlement of squatters. Despite pleas from the local Tamang community residents, who requested the authorities not to demolish the monastery on Buddha Jayanti, the dozer was deployed.

This incident is part of a broader government-led campaign launched shortly after Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's assumption of office. The government has intensified efforts to remove high-risk settlements along the Bagmati River and its tributaries, aiming to prevent potential floods and human casualties during the monsoon season.

Under this campaign, authorities, in coordination with the District Administration Office, Kathmandu, began clearing structures in Balkhu and Bansighat areas on Friday. The target is to remove a total of 686 structures, including 486 huts in Balkhu and 200 in Bansighat, using heavy machinery.

The government emphasizes that these measures are crucial to prevent damage caused by floods and to safeguard lives and property. Following this, plans are underway to continue clearing structures in other upstream regions such as Shankhamul, after proper identification and secure arrangements for squatters are made.

The government has also issued clear directives through the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration to local bodies to ensure the proper management of landless squatters, including safe housing, healthcare, and nutrition. 

Regarding concerns over mass demolitions across the country, the Home Ministry has reiterated that all eviction processes will only proceed after proper identification, planning, and prior notice to affected residents. The district administration offices will coordinate security arrangements only if the community’s plans are in place and adequate preparations are made.

Following the notices, many squatters have voluntarily vacated their homes. However, authorities intensified their operations by deploying large security forces, including police, armed police, and municipal security personnel, to carry out demolitions.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti, called for peace, non-violence, and pursuit of knowledge. Through social media, he emphasized that true revolution begins not with violence but with wisdom—stressing that the revolution starts with “Gyan” (knowledge), not “K” (action). He commemorated Lord Buddha as a timeless proponent of peace and expressed hope for global harmony. 

PM Dahal also highlighted Nepal’s proud heritage linked to Lord Buddha’s birth, reaffirming the country’s commitment to non-violence and peace. On this auspicious day, he extended wishes for wisdom and shared the message: “App Deepo Bhav” — “Be your own lamp.”