Nepal Development Watch (NEDEW), an independent group of academics and development practitioners based in Nepal, the UK and other countries, has welcomed the government’s decision to form a high-level probe commission to investigate the assets of officials who have held high public office since 2006.

In a statement issued on the occasion of the Nepali New Year, the organisation described the move as an important step toward strengthening transparency and accountability. It also congratulated the government for beginning implementation of its recently announced 100-point programme following the formation of the new administration under Prime Minister Balendra Shah on March 27.

NEDEW said the programme covers 14 thematic areas, including administrative reform, public service delivery, digital governance and anti-corruption measures, reflecting an effort to address long-standing governance challenges.

Welcoming the proposed asset probe, the organisation stressed the need to ensure due process and transparency to avoid potential backlash. It urged authorities to investigate in a fair, credible and legally sound manner.

The group also acknowledged the government’s recognition of historical discrimination against Dalits and other marginalised communities, calling it a positive step toward social justice. However, it said a formal apology from the prime minister on behalf of the state would further reinforce the commitment. It also called for revisiting Nepal’s reservations to the UN anti-racism convention.

NEDEW welcomed plans for a second national anti-corruption strategy and the provision to reserve 10 percent of hospital beds for economically disadvantaged groups.

At the same time, it expressed concern over proposals such as a potential ban on student organisations, warning of implications for freedom of association. It also said land distribution alone would not address poverty and suggested broader livelihood support measures.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring government policies and providing evidence-based analysis in the coming months.