May 17, Kathmandu - Butwal residents and landless squatters staged a massive demonstration, protesting against the government's plans to forcibly remove long-time settlers without providing alternative housing.

The protest was organized by the Nepal Landless Squatters and Unorganized Settlers Struggle Committee in Rupandehi. It started from the Rajmarg Chowk in Butwal and saw participants rally through Milanchowk, Bus Park, Pushpalal Park, and Traffic Chowk before holding a demonstration at the latter.  

The rally saw significant participation from squatters originating from 22 districts of Terai.  

Committee coordinator Khagendra Poudel said the protest was sparked by the government's attempts to demolish the homes of impoverished squatters and landless settlers with ditches and eviction drives, without offering any alternatives, forcing them to come out in opposition.