They never fought in the decade-long ‘People’s War’. They still bear its scars
Summary
People injured in Nepal’s armed conflict but never aligned with either side still live with untreated wounds, disabilities and little state support. Survivors like Surendra Khatri are demanding recognition, access to healthcare and education, and formal reparations.
Key Points
- Surendra Khatri, who lost both hands in a 2006 bomb blast, says civilians hurt in the conflict have been largely forgotten by the state.
- He and others affected by the war say they have received little or no relief, compensation or formal recognition because they were not linked to either side.
- Khatri now leads the National Network of Conflict Victims with Disabilities, which says it has enrolled around 700 members across Nepal.
- Rights advocates are urging the government to create a commission to document excluded victims and provide reparations and support.
