Today Nepalese are celebrating the first anniversary of the reinstatement of democracy – last year’s uprising ended King Gyanendra’s 15 month rule. It sure is a time to celebrate but even after a year of the restoration of democracy, many questions still remain unanswered… Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Nepal has said that “no meaningful steps have yet been taken to find out the whereabouts of disappeared citizens and that the perpetrators of serious human rights violations continue to enjoy total impunity even after a year of the restoration of democracy. “

OHCHR stated “One of the most pressing needs is to address accountability and the right to justice of the many who have suffered violations or abuses at the hands of the State or the Maoists, both during and after hostilities. Probe commission reports such as that of the Rayamajhi Commission have never been made public or their recommendations implemented. The progress that has been made in human rights must not be taken for granted. There is much more which needs to be done, with many challenges lying ahead. OHCHR-Nepal reiterates its commitment to do all it can to assist in strengthening the protection of human rights in support of the peace and electoral process.”

As Nepalese are looking towards a more stable government, the country still cries for justice to those who had suffered violations or abuses during pro-democracy protests. And while Nepalese celebrated their victory, the royal couple paid a visit to a holy temple in the outskirts of the valley.