DNF News Room
20 March 2008, Kathmandu- Various Dalit civil society Organizations and DNF's Member organizations in the leadership of Dalit NGO Federation (DNF) jointly marked the 21st March on the occasion of 43rd International day against all forms of Racial and Caste Discrimination. The day itself is historical for Dalit Movement. Dalits movement is observing this day on the occasion in Nepal since restoration of democracy after 1991.Especially, the day is being observed by Dalits in the memory of peaceful movement of blacks where 69 people in 21st March 1960 were killed in South Africa in protest of racial discrimination by White people

Around 5 million Dalits are still excluded socially, economically and politically because of exclusionary policy of state since centuries backs. On the occasion, more than 1000 Dalits carried out a mass demonstration from Santibatika, Mandela which was followed by massf meeting at New Baneshwor in front of BCCI hall. This demonstration was accompanied by timely and relevant Dalits slogans and demands for the new constitution.

The mass meeting was addressed by prominent Dalit and civil society leaders namely Ms Durga Sob, Mr.Subhodh Pyakurel,Mr.Ram Lal Bishwokarma, Mr.Mahatam Harijan (Chamar) and Anjana Bishunkhe, leader of Janmorcha party. Other distinguish leaders from different political parties were also invited to address the programme. Unfortunately; this could not be possible because of their busy schedule closed to the election of Constituent Assembly (CA). However, the programme was very successful as it has breaked the silence of Dalits in a common voice after long interval. The programme was also entertained by musical songs accompanied by Awaj Kalakar Nepal to give a message to the audience for the eradication of caste based discrimination and build a new Nepal having caste discrimination free society.

The event has created a forum to raise unite Dalit voice and given a clear message widely to general public and political parties about unity of Dalits which has been challenged by society at recent times and Dalit agenda to be addressed in the new constitution of Nepal. The programme has also strengthened the unity of Dalits was the major outcome of the programme. The programme was facilitated by Mr. Rem Bahadur Bishwokarma, President of Jagaran Media Centre (JMC) and chaired by DNF Treasurer Ms. Renu Sijapati.Also, the highlights and objectives of the programme were briefed by Mr.Bhakta Bishwokarma, President of NNDSWO.Likewise, welcome remarks and vote of thanks were expressed by Mr.Gajadhar Sunar, the president of DWO and Mr.Amrit Bishwokarma, the president of JUP respectively. The major snaps of the event are as follows.