The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday asked the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office to be sensitive towards the health of youth activist Iih, who has been staging a sit-in protest outside the city hall, and to start dialogue to find a solution to the demands put forth by the demonstrators.

Issuing a press release, the constitutional body said that a high-level team of the commission led by its member Lily Thapa studied the issue on Tuesday.

“The commission’s attention has been drawn towards the health situation of ‘Iih” who has been standing outside the National Assembly Hall for the past eight days, demanding proper management of, and an alternative place for street vendors,” reads the statement. “In this regard, a high-level team, led by commission member Lily Thapa, conducted an on-site study on Tuesday.”

During the investigation, the commission officials talked to Iih, fellow protesters, and street vendors.

The protesters have also expressed that the KMC has not taken the issue seriously, the statement further reads. “The commission has also initiated discussions with metropolis officials to solve the problem.”

The issue raised by Iih is one that directly concerns the National Human Rights Commission. Article 17 (f) of the Constitution of Nepal ensures the freedom of profession, employment and establishment and operation of industry, trade and business in any territory of Nepal. Article 33 of the Constitution mentions the right to employment.