Tension has escalated in several squatter settlements across Kathmandu after authorities began preparations for eviction following a government decision.

Residents of areas including Thapathali, Shankhamul, Shantinagar, and Manohara staged protests chanting slogans such as “Stop bulldozer terror” and demanding guaranteed housing rights for landless and informal settlers.

The protest is being organized under the leadership of the National Gen-Z Civil Campaign. Demonstrators have also announced plans to march from Thapathali to Maitighar Mandala, demanding the immediate reversal of the eviction decision.

The move comes after an instruction reportedly issued by Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah following consultations with security chiefs on Baishakh 9. Acting on this directive, the District Security Committee, chaired by Chief District Officer Ishwar Raj Paudel, decided to clear four major squatter settlements in the first phase.

The meeting also included representatives from the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, including Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol, along with security agencies.

Following the decision, police began public announcements in affected areas, instructing residents to vacate. While some families have started relocating their belongings, others have refused to leave, insisting they will remain in the settlements.

Authorities estimate that around 1.2 million landless Dalit, squatters, and informal settlers reside across Nepal.