Nepal's Constitution - Vote to Keep Nepal Secular Nation Heightens Violence, Ministry Efforts Crippled

September 15, 2015

On Sunday, Sept. 13, the Constituent Assembly (CA) of Nepal began voting on the final draft of the country's constitution, reviewing each clause and any proposed amendments.

After more than two-thirds of the CA rejected a call to revert the country to a Hindu nation, clashes broke out between police officials and protesters. Some extremists in favor of the amendment bombed two churches, damaging the buildings' windows. No one was harmed, although religious minorities now feel threatened.

This was one of many strikes and clashes that have resulted in the death of at least 40 people because of disagreements over the proposed final draft of the constitution.

One major area of concern for certain marginalized groups is the proposal to split Nepal into seven federal provinces. These groups believe the new provinces will limit their political representation in the country and lead to further marginalization.

Gospel for Asia-supported field correspondents in Nepal say the outbreaks of violence and tension, especially in the southern regions, have hindered ministry efforts. Curfews and strikes that have shut down roads have made travel nearly impossible. Gospel for Asia-supported Bridge of Hope centers also have been temporarily closed.

The CA hopes to present the new constitution on September 20 after voting is completed.

Correspondents ask prayer for:

• The Lord to give His children security, peace, wisdom and knowledge during this time of tension.
• God to grant wisdom to leaders and governing officials.

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Initial Report - July 20, 2015

Religious Freedom in Nepal at Risk

The country of Nepal is actively working to finalize its constitution.

An interim constitution has governed Nepal after the country's monarchy was dispelled in 2007. After the recent earthquakes, the current Constituent Assembly of Nepal quickly began working on the constitution in an effort to speed up the reconstruction process and reassure citizens they are able to effectively respond to crises.

The government recently distributed 200,000 copies of the preliminary draft to the public, affording citizens the opportunity to suggest changes. On July 23, a report containing the public's feedback will be sent to the Constituent Assembly.

They hope to ratify the constitution by mid-August.

There have been riots and protests concerning the draft. Many people are demanding Nepal return to its traditional religious roots.

Right now, religious minorities in the country fear their freedom to practice and share their faith will be severely restricted if the current draft of the constitution goes unchanged.

Please pray for:

• The governing authorities will be guided by wisdom as they work to finalize Nepal's constitution.
• God's people will be granted freedom to worship.