" Nepal: Retaliations against human rights defenders over business complex ‘deplorable’, say UN experts", 14 May 2024

UN experts* today expressed concern over reports of ongoing retaliations against human rights defenders because of their opposition to the development of the Chhaya Center retail and entertainment complex in Nepal.

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Construction of the Chhaya Center in the Thamel tourist district in Kathmandu has led to destruction of the historic Kamal Pokhari pond and disrupted the daily rituals and cultural practices of the Indigenous Pradhan Newar community. About 100 shops, a cinema, and restaurants are now operating, with another 100 retail outlets due to open.

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Indigenous human rights defender Bhagabat Narsingh Pradhan has led the campaign to restore the Kamal Pokhari pond, believed to date back to the Licchavi kingdom existing from about 450 AD to 750 AD. Because of his activism, Pradhan has faced threats, including intimidating house visits by trade union leaders employed at the Chhaya Center and a contempt of court case filed against him in the Supreme Court of Nepal.

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The involvement of U.S.-based company Marriott International has also amplified concerns among the experts. Marriott International is operating the five-star Aloft Kathmandu Thamel Hotel within the Chhaya Center, despite an ongoing legal dispute over land it sits on.

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The UN experts have raised their concerns with the Government of Nepal and relevant private companies, including Chhaya Devi Complex Pvt. Ltd and Marriott International, along with the Government of the United States, the headquarters of Marriott International. The UN experts have yet to receive a response.