Bipana Paneru/Kaski (Pahichan) January 3 – Though new constitution has guaranteed rights of gender and sexual minority, stakeholders have demanded to appoint representatives of this community in the expert panel which will be formed while formulating laws.

At a press conference organized by Paribartan Nepal and Naulo Bihani Pokhara organizers informed that it was a matter of pride to incorporate issuing citizenship as per gender identity in article 12 of constitution, rights of equality in article 18 and formulating of inclusive commission.

Program Coordinator of Paribartan Nepal Bindiya Gautam said though new constitution has most liberal provisions about LGBTI in South Asia, there are doubts about its implementation.

She said the traditional trends of poor implementation of legal and constitutional provision should not be repeated. The press release states that report of same-sex marriage which is gathering dust at Ministry should be made public and Supreme Court Decision of 2064 Poush 6 should be fully implemented.

Chairman of Blue Diamond Society Pinki Gurung said this community would not remain mum if the rights mentioned in new constitution are not implemented. According to Gurung, the 15 years struggle has made some achievements about securing rights of this community. According to data, one million people are hesitating to speak about their sexuality. They also warned to launch protests if they are denied from rights.

At the press conference, Program Coordinator of Naulo Bihani Raju Thakaliu said from April 25 Earthquake a member, one staff and guardian of a staff lost their lives and houses of more than one hundred members has been destroyed. According to him, state should treat the LGBTI as men and women in society.