“Despite all challenges, reconciliation centers will be established in all wards by the end of the fiscal year.” – Deputy Mayor Dangol

Date: Falgun 29

Location: Kathmandu

Kathmandu Metropolitan City has identified five different types of physical infrastructure situations in its wards regarding the availability of space for establishing and operating ward-level reconciliation centers.

Following the final on-site visit to Ward No. 32, Deputy Mayor and Judicial Committee Coordinator Sunita Dangol stated:

“Some wards are fully ready to operate centers that meet the prescribed standards. In some cases, however, the ward office lacks space—even renting premises has been a challenge. Despite these problems and limitations, we will ensure that reconciliation centers are operational in all wards by the end of this fiscal year.”

Positive Commitment Across Wards

Despite variations in infrastructure, there is a shared understanding and commitment among elected representatives and staff toward making the centers functional. Deputy Mayor Dangol emphasized:

“There are natural demands—especially the need to build capacity. We will manage these and move forward with center operations.”

With the completion of Ward No. 32’s inspection, the physical observation of all 32 wards is now complete.

Voices from the Wards

Kush Dhakal, Judicial Committee member and Ward 29 Chair, expressed optimism:

“I am more hopeful now about establishing mediation centers across all wards.”

Nawaraj Parajuli, Ward 32 Chair, reflected on the importance of balancing legal and practical solutions:

“To resolve disputes sustainably, both legal arrangements and practical realities must be equally considered. Otherwise, the same issues resurface.”

Sharing his experience, he added:

“Sometimes we call parties after office hours and try to mediate late into the night. Confidentiality is key—no one else should know who’s involved.”

Legal Tools and Procedures Available

To operate mediation centers, the Judicial Committee can rely on several legal provisions, including

  • Local Government Operation Act
  • Dispute Resolution Procedure
  • Women's Network Operation Procedure
  • Housing Management Directive
  • Mediation Center Operation Directive issued by Kathmandu Metropolitan City

     

Basanta Acharya, Head of the Law and Human Rights Department, explained the legal timeframe:

“By law, a dispute should be resolved within three months. The first month is for summoning parties, the second for reconciliation efforts, and the third for making a decision if necessary.”

Ground-Level Challenges

Ward Secretary Suresh Dahal highlighted that room opening disputes are the most common issue in the ward. Before the Metropolitan City issued a specific procedure for space management, officials used Section 404 of the Civil Code to vacate rooms.

“It becomes particularly difficult when the space in question contains valuable items, such as medical equipment or gold shops.”

Current Status of Wards (Space Classification)

1. Group 1—Fully Functional but Needs Upgrades

The wards in the first group have already established rooms. To make the rooms as per the standards set by the procedure, there are minor enhancements needed, such as putting up an identity board and logo, placing basic furniture, putting up wall posters promoting reconciliation, putting up pictures that encourage reconciliation, creating a separate space for private talks, etc.

2. Group 2 – Vacant Spaces Available

The second type of ward has rooms, or there is space to build rooms, but they are currently unused or used for other purposes. These rooms can be operationalized with furniture and decoration.

3. Group 3—No Space in Current Office; Rent Needed

The current ward office lacks additional space. Renting a new location is necessary.

4. Group 4—Neither Office Space nor Rental Options Available Nearby

No feasible room within the ward premises or nearby rental space. In these wards, all the public representatives are currently working from a single shared space.