Kathmandu, Jan 7: The Ministry of Home Affairs has rolled out a comprehensive set of measures aimed at reinforcing religious tolerance and social harmony across the country, issuing a 10-point directive to all 77 District Administration Offices (DAOs).
The instructions come in the wake of recent disturbances reported from parts of the Tarai and Madhes regions, prompting the ministry to call for stronger preventive and response mechanisms at the district level. Under the directive, Chief District Officers (CDOs) have been told to submit detailed reports outlining steps taken to maintain harmony and to act swiftly against anyone found engaging in unlawful activities that threaten public order.
As part of the initiative, each district will establish a seven-member District Peace and Social Harmony Committee, coordinated by the CDO, to monitor potential flashpoints and facilitate dialogue among communities. District administrations have also been asked to hold coordination meetings with political representatives as well as social, cultural and religious leaders to address emerging tensions in a timely manner.
The ministry has further directed DAOs to design awareness and outreach programmes in local languages, using local media to promote messages of coexistence and tolerance. In addition, districts must prepare annual calendars highlighting festivals or events that may require special attention, based on past experiences and records.
Issued by Under Secretary Rama Acharya Subedi, the circular underlines that maintaining peace is a collective responsibility, requiring close coordination between the administration, local governments and communities. The ministry has made coordination at provincial and local levels mandatory, stressing that early preparedness and community engagement are key to preventing disruptions to social harmony.
