JUMLA, Dec 13: The locals units of Jumla district have started ‘No Chaupadi Shed’ campaign aimed at reducing the Chaupadhi practice in the district. The locals units of the district in coordination with different non-government organizations (NGOs) have started the campaign.
According to Kamal Raj Khatri, a social activist, the Chhaupadhi practice is a barrier for the social development of women. “The practice is a hurdle for gender equality, women empowerment, and reducing inequality,” he said.
Campaign against chhaupadi fizzles out
Already, Tatopani Rural Municipality-6, Tila Rural Municipality-11 and Patarasi Rural Municipality-4 are free of Chhaupadi sheds. The campaign was initiated with the support from Suryodaya Nepal and Italian Foundation. The campaign is being run smoothly in the district. Tila Rural Municipality has planned to remove Chhaupadi sheds completely from the region by the end of 2021.
The campaigners make the people aware about the negative consequences of the Chhaupadi practice. Every three months, they carry out a survey in the district. According to Lalkura Nepali, a local of Tila-3, the Chhaupadi practice increases violence against women. “The practice is a major reason for violence against women. All the stakeholders should work together to eliminate the practice,” he said. Likewise, Kamal Raj Khatri, executive director at Suryodaya Nepal, said the women of the region have also supported the campaign.
