- Nepal's government, led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, is set to issue an official apology to the Dalit community within 15 days.
- This unprecedented apology will formally acknowledge the historical injustice, discrimination, and deprivation inflicted upon Dalits and other marginalised groups.
- Dalits, who comprise over 13 per cent of Nepal's population, have historically faced severe discrimination as the lowest rung of the ancient caste hierarchy.
- Rights activists have welcomed the apology as a significant step, emphasising the need for effective implementation of anti-discriminatory laws and guaranteed rights for the community.
- Nepal's decision has spurred similar demands for apologies and action from Dalit communities and lawmakers in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, where caste-based discrimination also persists.
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