Interaction program on adult entertainment sector in Nepal's tourism capital

Right4Children's PRAYASS Project, in collaboration with the Community Service and Community Police Service District Coordination Committee, Kaski, and Ward No. 6 Office, organized an interaction program in Lakeside, Pokhara On 24 August. The event focused on the challenges and security issues arising from Pokhara's recent designation as the Tourism Capital of Nepal and the growing prominence of the adult entertainment sector (AES).

Local stakeholders, including government representatives and community members, emphasised the need for strict adherence to guidelines as businesses such as many pubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels are now permitted to operate 24 hours a day. Superintendent of Police (SP) Mohan Kumar Thapa, Chief of the District Police Office, Kaski, acknowledged the security challenges posed by this announcement. He highlighted the lack of consistent monitoring and insufficient security infrastructure, such as adequate personnel, CCTV cameras and round-the-clock security.

Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya underscored the announcement of Pokhara City as the tourism capital of Nepal was based on various indicators and recommendations from the study committee, including the opinions of experts. He noted that as the city grows, there will be many greater security challenges, especially with 24-hour business operations.

Chief District Officer Bharat Mani Pandey stressed that all-night businesses must adhere to the guidelines set by the District Security Committee to ensure the safety of both tourists and local residents. He emphasised the interdependence of tourism and security.

During the event, Right4Children's legal advisor, Advocate Kunjani Pariyar, raised concerns about the safety and rights of young girls and women working in the AES. She called for better management of the businesses and dignified treatment of the workers within the sector and urged business owners to comply with government guidelines. Advocate Pariyar also highlighted the critical role of authorities in monitoring the sector to protect vulnerable workers from exploitation and abuse.

Local residents expressed their frustration over the disturbances caused by 24-hour businesses, including noise pollution and unruly behaviour, which have disrupted the peace and order of their community. They called for enhanced security measures if businesses were to operate around the clock.

Ward No. 6 Chairperson Bishnu Bahadur Bhattarai pointed out the lack of adequate coordination among different levels of government in managing nighttime business operations, leading to gaps and security risks.

SP Thapa acknowledged that while Pokhara remains a relatively safe city, there has been an uptick in issues such as drug-related activities and financial fraud, which necessitate increased vigilance.

Upon the closure of the programme, PRAYASS Project Manager Santosh Gurung noted that the interaction was successful in raising awareness about the importance of adhering to government-issued guidelines for nighttime business operations. He emphasised the need to protect and dignify the AES, ensuring the safety and rights of those involved, particularly young girls and women.

The declaration of Pokhara as the Tourism Capital of Nepal, made on 17 March 2024, by then Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, marks a significant milestone for the city's tourism industry. However, it also brings new responsibilities and challenges that require the collective effort of all stakeholders to address effectively.

The event saw the participation of around 200 people including local residents, journalists, security personnel, government officials, and R4C staff members. The event was broadcast live by Pokhara Television and was streamed online by Friends TV on YouTube and Facebook.