“The Decline of Feminism in Nepal”

In today’s society, the word “feminism” often sparks negative reactions, mostly because it’s misunderstood. Many people wrongly think feminism is about opposing men, when in fact, it’s about something much simpler and fairer.

At its heart, feminism means equal rights and opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender. Although the movement gained wider attention in the 1970s, the fight for gender equality began long before that. Feminism isn’t about giving women more power than men—it’s about putting everyone on the same level. While some radical feminists do call for special treatment for women, most feminist movements simply advocate for fairness and balance.

Feminism in Nepal: A Look Back

In Nepal, women have historically held a respected place in society. In ancient times, major decisions—whether in families or the state—were often made with women's input. While women didn’t always have prominent public roles, they weren’t limited to household duties either; their voices mattered.

During the Kirant era, women were revered, even worshipped as goddesses. They led religious rituals and had the right to participate fully in community life. In the Licchavi period, women had the freedom to choose their partners and were seen as equals to their husbands. One of the oldest written records in Nepal, the Chabahil inscription, was composed by a woman. This record expressed her personal wishes and values, showing the agency women had at the time. Queens were highly respected, and married women maintained strong ties with their birth families.

What Changed?

So, if women once held such respected roles, what happened?

The real decline began during the Rana regime. As the Ranas tightened their grip on power, they stripped many freedoms from the general population—especially from women. Women were reduced to domestic roles and, in many cases, became tools for the entertainment of the elite. Their autonomy was taken away, and their public presence faded. Only a few privileged women had any influence, while most—particularly from lower classes—faced severe oppression and exploitation.

Foreign influences and the Ranas' harsh rule together caused a sharp decline in the status of women—one from which society still hasn’t fully recovered.

Until 2052 BS (1995 AD), women in Nepal didn’t have equal rights to inherit their parents’ property. A key legal shift happened with the case Meera Dhungana v. His Majesty’s Government, which finally granted women those rights. However, the law still reflects gender bias. For example, Section 219 of Nepal’s Criminal Code (2074) reduces punishment for rape depending on the victim’s age—a troubling sign of how deep-rooted gender inequality still is in the legal system.

Where We Are Now

Despite slow progress, Nepal isn’t entirely behind when it comes to feminism. Laws are changing, but society hasn’t caught up.

In some areas, like Sudurpaschim, girls are married off and become mothers at ages when others are just starting college. Across the country, many women are still expected to stay in the kitchen and serve men their entire lives. Most women in Nepal have experienced being objectified or silenced at some point. Yet, instead of addressing the actions of the men who mistreat them, society often blames the women—labeling them as “too bold” or “too forward.”

The issue today goes beyond just legal rights—it’s about deeply rooted attitudes and social norms. Without a change in how society thinks and treats women, legal reforms won’t be enough. Nepal risks sliding further backward unless real social change happens. Equality isn’t just a policy goal—it has to become part of how we live and treat each other every day.