Kathmandu: Nepali Congress (NC) leaders have emphasized the importance of preserving and strengthening the inclusive proportional representative system enshrined in the constitution. At a program held at the NC central office in Sanepa on Sunday to hand over certificates to the newly appointed chairperson and central members of the Nepal Dalit Association, leaders dismissed opposition rumors suggesting plans to limit the system during constitutional amendments.

Speaking on the occasion, NC Vice President Purna Bahadur Khadka reiterated the party’s longstanding commitment to the welfare of marginalized communities, particularly the Dalits. Highlighting NC's role in establishing the National Dalit Commission, Khadka emphasized the party’s dedication to safeguarding the rights of backward communities.

General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa stressed that the inclusive proportional representation system must be strengthened rather than weakened. "The NC’s priority is to make representation of all ethnic communities more systematic and robust," Thapa stated, urging the party to lead by example.

Joint General Secretary Jiban Pariyar called on the NC to prepare Dalit leaders for direct elections at all levels, while Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat highlighted the need for serious consultations to enhance the current system. Mahat assured that the NC remained clear in its intention to improve the existing provisions.

Lok Bahadur Bishwakarma, Chairperson of the Nepal Dalit Association, pledged to hold the Association’s long-overdue national convention by mid-April 2025. The ad hoc committee, comprising 240 members, has been tasked with ensuring the convention is convened on time. Founding Chairperson Man Bahadur Bishwakarma and former Chairperson Min Bishwakarma also shared their views, underlining the importance of sustained efforts to address Dalit issues within the party and society.