Supreme Court Orders Protection of Rights for Displaced Children

The Supreme Court of Nepal has issued an interim order directing the Government of Nepal to ensure the education, healthcare, housing, and other fundamental rights of children displaced from informal settlements located along riverbanks and other areas. The order was issued on August 3, 2026, by a single bench of Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla.

Background of the Order

The order notes that school-age children from informal settlements are at risk of dropping out of school, that children who have not been enrolled may be deprived of their right to education, and that displacement could have adverse effects on their lives and development. The court emphasized the state's responsibility to protect the rights of these vulnerable children and to take immediate action to mitigate the negative impacts of displacement.

Implications for Government Action

This directive mandates the government to:

• Provide immediate access to education for displaced children to prevent interruptions in their learning.
• Ensure adequate healthcare services are available to address the medical needs of displaced children.
• Secure safe and stable housing arrangements to protect children from homelessness and associated risks.
• Implement measures to safeguard other fundamental rights, including nutrition and psychological support.

Reactions from Civil Society

Human rights organizations and child welfare advocates have welcomed the Supreme Court's order, viewing it as a critical step toward upholding the rights of marginalized children. They urge the government to act swiftly and effectively to implement the court's directives and to develop long-term strategies to prevent future displacements.

Next Steps

The government is expected to present a plan outlining the measures it will take to comply with the Supreme Court's order. Monitoring mechanisms will likely be established to ensure the effective implementation of these measures and to hold responsible parties accountable for any lapses.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court's intervention highlights the judiciary's role in protecting vulnerable populations and enforcing constitutional rights. This order sets a precedent for addressing the needs of displaced children and reinforces the importance of state responsibility in safeguarding the welfare of all citizens.