Historic Move: Nepal Government Set to Apologize to Dalits for Decades of Systemic Oppression

Kathmandu- In a landmark step towards social justice and national reconciliation, the newly formed Nepal government has decided to issue a formal apology to Dalit and historically marginalized communities for decades of systemic oppression, discrimination, and exclusion. Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen Shah, was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Nepal on March 27.

The decision forms a key part of the ambitious 100-point Governance Reform Agenda approved by the Cabinet in its very first meeting, made public on March 29. According to the agenda, the state will officially acknowledge the historical injustices inflicted upon these communities through state structures, societal practices, and policy frameworks. Within the next 15 days, the government will issue a formal apology on behalf of the state and announce comprehensive reform-oriented programs focused on delivering justice, equality, inclusive restoration, and meaningful socio-economic upliftment.

This initiative is being widely viewed as one of the most significant symbolic and practical steps taken by any Nepali government in recent history to address deep-rooted caste-based discrimination.

Balen Shah’s Rise as Prime Minister

Prime Minister Balen Shah, assumed office as Nepal’s 47th Prime Minister on March 27, 2026. His appointment by President Ram Chandra Paudel, in accordance with Article 76 (1) of the Constitution, represents more than a routine transfer of power. It reflects a broader societal shift driven by a younger generation demanding accountability, transparency, and reform.

Balen Shah’s rise came in the aftermath of massive Gen Z protests in September 2025, which led to the fall of the previous government amid widespread anger over corruption, nepotism, and governance failures. The youth-led movement, which resulted in significant loss of lives, became a turning point that ultimately paved the way for fresh elections and a strong mandate for change. Shah, a former rapper, engineer, and independent-minded leader from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), rode this wave of public discontent to power, becoming one of Nepal’s youngest prime ministers.

Balen Government Endorses 100-Point Reform Agenda

Just days after taking oath, the Balen Shah-led government has hit the ground running by endorsing a comprehensive 100-point reform agenda. This detailed roadmap covers multiple areas including administrative overhaul, anti-corruption measures, digital governance, improved service delivery, economic reforms, and social justice initiatives.

The inclusion of the formal apology to Dalit and marginalized communities in this agenda underscores the government’s commitment to addressing not only governance inefficiencies but also long-ignored social injustices. Dalit leaders and activists have welcomed the move, describing it as a positive and overdue step, while calling for effective implementation of the promised reform programs.

The government has set a clear 15-day timeline for issuing the formal apology and unveiling the specific details of the social justice and reconciliation programs. This development is expected to open a new chapter in Nepal’s journey toward a more inclusive and equitable society.

Major Nepali media outlets including Ratopati, Kathmandu Post, Nepal News, and My Republica have prominently covered the announcement.