KATHMANDU: The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause order to the government, seeking clarification on the ongoing eviction of squatter and informal settlements in the Kathmandu Valley, including the legal basis of the action and safeguards for affected residents.

Hearing a writ filed by Majid Ansari and others, a single bench of Justice Sunil Kumar Pokharel directed the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers to submit a written explanation within 15 days through the Office of the Attorney General.

The court has asked whether mandatory procedures under the 100-point governance reform plan, the Right to Housing Act 2018, and earlier Supreme Court directives were followed before carrying out evictions and demolitions.

It has also sought clarification on the legal authority used to clear settlements, along with details of rehabilitation measures for displaced families, including food, shelter, healthcare for vulnerable groups, and education for children.

Additionally, the court has demanded updated records of displaced households and information on damage to schools, temples, monasteries, and mosques, along with steps taken for their management.

The petition challenges eviction actions initiated on April 25 and seeks an interim halt. The court has scheduled a hearing for May 6 to consider interim relief after hearing both sides.