RSP demands assurance of citizenship and rights for descendants of non-resident Nepalis
KATHMANDU:- The Overseas Nepali Liaison Department—an affiliate of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP)—has demanded that the government ensure citizenship by descent and legal rights for the more than eight million Nepalis residing abroad on a long-term basis.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the department clearly articulated the need to effectively establish the rights of overseas Nepalis by making necessary amendments and revisions to the Citizenship Act, 2063.
“Rights regarding citizenship by descent must be established in a more clear, assured, and effective manner through necessary amendments and revisions to the Citizenship Act, 2063,” the statement says.
Emphasizing the need to translate the sentiment “Once a Nepali, always a Nepali” into practice, the Department has stated that ensuring the legal rights of non-resident Nepalis would create an environment where they invest in Nepal and channel their acquired knowledge, skills, and capital back into the country. The Department holds the view that this would not only contribute to Nepal’s prosperity but also make non-resident Nepalis feel secure and encouraged.
The Department views the issue of citizenship not merely as a technical or legal matter, but as a significant policy issue linked to the long-term relationship between non-resident Nepalis and Nepal, as well as to investment, identity, rights, and national prosperity.
The Department for Liaison with Nepalis Abroad has also pledged to continue conducting necessary studies, offering recommendations, undertaking policy initiatives, and maintaining ongoing coordination and advocacy with the Government of Nepal and relevant bodies regarding this matter.
Similarly, within four years of its establishment, RSP has expanded its organization to 37 countries. The party had formed a support group called the ‘Non-Resident Nepali Liaison Department’ with the aim of organizing Nepalis living abroad.
