Kathmandu, Jan. 7
Minister for Home Affairs of Nepal, Ramesh Lekhak, has
assured the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) that the issues related to the
full implementation of NRN citizenship will be resolved soon.
Responding to the concerns of an NRNA delegation led by its
President, Dr. Badri KC, Minister Lekhak expressed his commitment to addressing
the complexities in implementing NRN citizenship during the upcoming winter
session of parliament, the NRNA informed in a statement on Tuesday.
"The government is committed to resolving issues
related to NRN citizenship. We will propose amendments to over a dozen laws to
address problems in existing legislation, including immigration, land
registration, company registration, banking, and other practical areas. Most of
these issues will be resolved within this parliamentary session," he said.
Dr. KC had earlier expressed concerns over the lack of
constitutional implementation of NRN citizenship leaving many NRNs
disheartened. He said that despite being granted citizenship, procedural
hurdles have prevented many from obtaining it.
He also pointed out that the absence of NRN citizenship
poses challenges for investment in Nepal.
Likewise, Minister Lekhak said, "Instead of waiting
for investors, the government should encourage the NRNs. Your decision to
invest in your homeland is commendable, and we are working to address
legislative barriers to facilitate this."
Dr. KC also raised the issue of identity cards for
individuals of Nepali origin who have been foreign nationals for generations.
Minister Lekhak responded positively, he said
According to him, discussions are underway to provide
identity cards for individuals of Nepali origin and the government is positive
about this initiative. The Ministry of Law is working on a separate identity
card for individuals of Nepali origin who do not fall under the NRN definition.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 January 2025.
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