Kamala Poudel, the Chairperson of the Panchapuri Municipality Level Gender-Based Management Committee, has been a dedicated advocate for gender justice, the rights of children, and access to legal support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and gender-based discrimination (GBD) at the local level. Over the past three years, she has tirelessly worked to bring attention to these critical issues, ensuring that the voices of affected women and children are heard and addressed.
Her efforts have played a pivotal role in shaping policies and institutional mechanisms within Panchapuri Municipality. She actively contributed to the development of the Municipality's Gender Equality Strategy, which aims to create a more inclusive and just society by promoting gender-responsive governance. Additionally, she has been instrumental in advocating for and securing the establishment of dedicated funds to support children, as well as women and girls affected by GBV and GBD.
One of her significant achievements includes pushing for the creation of a rehabilitation center for GBV survivors. As a result of continuous advocacy, Panchapuri Municipality has allocated a budget of NRs 700,000 (approx.. Euro 4700) for the construction of this center, which will serve as a safe space for survivors, providing them with shelter, psychosocial support, and legal assistance.
Moreover, the Panchapuri Municipality Level Gender-Based Management Committee has successfully influenced the establishment of a Women’s Cell at the Ilaka Police Station in Babiyachaur, Panchapuri. This initiative has also led to the appointment of two female police officers, ensuring that survivors of GBV and GBD have a more accessible and supportive environment when reporting cases. Previously, survivors had to travel to central authorities to file complaints, often delaying justice and discouraging victims from seeking legal recourse. With this newly established mechanism, case filing and legal proceedings can now be initiated directly at the local police station, significantly improving access to justice for affected individuals.
From Project AWAAJ Misereor written by Mahesh Shreshtha