Nepal Government Bans Strikes in 25 Essential Services Sectors

The Government of Nepal, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, has banned strikes and protests across 25 essential service sectors. Following the publication of a notice in the government gazette on Monday, any form of service disruption by employees or unions under any pretext has been strictly prohibited. The decision, implemented under the Essential Services Operation Act, 1957, aims to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of critical public services.

The list of banned areas covers communication, technology, and transport, including postal services, telecommunications, government printing presses, internet services, passports, consular facilities, and internal security. It also applies to all passenger and cargo transport services via land, water, or air, alongside airport management, aircraft maintenance, railways, and government warehouses.

Crucial public health and daily consumer sectors are also affected by the decision. These include hospitals, health centers, ambulance services, water supply, and waste management. Additionally, the production and sales of medicines, masks, and sanitizers, alongside the supply and distribution of petroleum products (including LP gas) and staple foods like lentils, rice, salt, and oil, have been secured under the same mandate.

Finally, the restriction extends to other key economic and infrastructure operations. Banking, insurance, electricity, tourist accommodations such as hotels and resorts, flood forecasting, and veterinary services are now legally protected from strikes. The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that this order has come into immediate effect, warning that strict legal action will be taken against any employee or union found violating the new rule.