National Roundtable Conference on Dalit Rights Announced for Baisakh

Kathmandu, Nepal – Dalit rights activists have announced plans to hold a national roundtable conference in the upcoming month of Baisakh to provide new ideological guidance for Dalit liberation and empowerment.

A 101-member Roundtable Conference Main Organizing Committee has been formed under the leadership of former ambassador Dr. Nirmal Bishwakarma. Prominent Dalit activists, including Dr. Mitra Pariyar (Coordinator, Castewatch Network), Khagendra Sunar (Coordinator, Dalit Campaign for Dalits), Rajesh Mayal Agni Shikha (Coordinator, Dalit Jagran Abhiyan), Karna Bishwakarma (Coordinator, National Campaign Against Untouchability), Sunil Ram (Coordinator, Bhim Army Nepal), Kumari Ram (Youth Campaign Singer), and Krishna Bishwakarma (Coordinator, Dalit Liberation Abhiyan), are among the members.

Dr. Bishwakarma confirmed the establishment of five sub-committees to ensure the success of the conference:

1. Dalit Liberation Thought Building Committee – Coordinated by Dr. Nirmal Bishwakarma.

2. Economic Committee – Coordinated by Agni Shikha.

3. Management Committee – Coordinated by Sarojdilu Bishwakarma.

4. Publicity and Media Mobilization Committee – Coordinated by Rem Rasaili Bishwakarma.

5. Union-Organization and Mass Mobilization Committee – Coordinated by Sunil Ram.

Formation of Dalit Campaign United Front

The meeting also established the Dalit Campaign United Front Committee under the leadership of Dr. Mitra Pariyar. This united front will integrate Dalit campaigns nationwide. Members include Dr. Nirmal Bishwakarma, Khagendra Sunar, Rajesh Mayal Agni Shikha, Karna Bishwakarma, Sunil Ram, Sangita Kumari Ram, and Krishna Bishwakarma, among others.

Preparing New Ideological Guidance

The conference aims to provide a new ideological framework for Dalit liberation. Dr. Bishwakarma emphasized the importance of uniting Dalit activists nationwide to build national strength and advance the cause of equality and justice.

Rajesh Mayal Agni Shikha, Coordinator of the Dalit Awareness Campaign, expressed optimism, stating, “This conference will energize the community to build a more inclusive and just society.”

Focus on Constitutional Amendment

The meeting also addressed the urgent need for constitutional amendments to protect the rights of Dalit communities. While the ruling parties have agreed in principle to amend the constitution, activists warned against any changes that overlook Dalit issues.

“We will not hesitate to launch a movement if amendments exclude the Dalit community,” stated Sushil Okheda, a central member of the Dalit Campaign for Dalits. The activists emphasized that a Dalit-friendly constitution is crucial for social justice.

Strengthening Dalit Rights and Justice

The upcoming conference is expected to be pivotal in advocating for Dalit rights, addressing social injustices, and uniting efforts for a more equitable Nepal.