Nepali Mother Struggles to Obtain Citizenship for Children Due to Discriminatory Law

Farida, a Nepali mother, is facing significant challenges in obtaining citizenship for her children under her own name. The obstacle lies in the discretionary power granted to the Chief District Officer (CDO) by the current law, which allows the CDO to decide whether to grant citizenship based on the mother's nationality.

Under Nepal's legal system, the CDO has the authority to determine if a child can acquire citizenship through their mother. This has led to discriminatory practices that prevent Nepali women like Farida from exercising their rights, even when they are the sole caretakers of their children.

Farida's case serves as a clear example of the obstacles faced by Nepali women in passing on citizenship to their children. The law's reliance on the CDO's discretion has resulted in inconsistent and often biased decisions, leaving many mothers and their children in a state of legal limbo.

Why this matters: Farida's struggle highlights the urgent need for legal reforms in Nepal to ensure equal rights for women in passing on citizenship to their children. The current discriminatory practices have far-reaching consequences, denying children access to essential services and opportunities.

The Constitution of Nepal 2015 states that no Nepali citizen shall be denied the right to acquire citizenship. However, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Many individuals, like 80-year-old Nonjom Kami from Karmarong Rural Municipality-5, Sorong, have been deprived of citizenship and the associated benefits.

In Nonjom Kami's case, it was only after the publication of a news article highlighting his plight that the local government and police coordinated with the District Administration Office to facilitate his citizenship. The Chief District Officer informed that Kami and his family have now been provided with citizenships after following the necessary procedures.

Farida's case and the broader issue of citizenship rights for Nepali women and their children have attracted attention from human rights organizations and activists. They emphasize the urgent need for legal reforms to eliminate discriminatory practices and ensure equal rights for all Nepali citizens, regardless of gender.

"The law gives the CDO the authority to decide whether to grant citizenship based on the mother's nationality," a legal expert explained, highlighting the root of the problem. "This has led to discriminatory practices that prevent Nepali women from exercising their rights, even when they are the sole caretakers of their children."

As Farida continues her fight for her children's citizenship rights, her story serves as a reminder of the long road ahead in achieving gender equality in Nepal. The government and society must work together to dismantle discriminatory laws and practices, ensuring that every Nepali citizen can enjoy their fundamental rights without prejudice.

Key Takeaways

• Nepali mother Farida faces challenges obtaining citizenship for her children under her name.
• Current law grants CDO discretionary power to decide citizenship based on mother's nationality.
• This leads to discriminatory practices preventing Nepali women from passing citizenship to children.
• Constitution guarantees citizenship rights, but reality differs, depriving many individuals of benefits.
• Urgent need for legal reforms to ensure equal citizenship rights for Nepali women and children.