Status of Tharu Girl Children in Kamalari System of Dang District in Nepal

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the situation of the Tharu girl children in the Kamalari system and identify the reasons behind this system. It was to identify the roles of INGOs and NGOs for Kamalari's physical, social, emotional and cognitive development by providing opportunities for formal and non-formal education and exploring reformative venues as well as making recommendations for further actions to abolish Kamalari practice. During the study it was found out that most of the girls go to work as Kamalaries due to their parents’ pressure. And some others go to experience the city life by seeing the returned Kamalaries, who comparatively are well dressed and well experienced. This creates curiosity within other girls and as a result they go to work, sometimes with and sometimes without the permission of their parents. It is found out that the overall conditions of the Tharu girl children are improving; they are being rescued and given opportunities to be educated. NGOs are implementing various programs to support their families and minimize their financial problems. The NGOs are also conducting awareness programs through media and street drama. In spite of all these efforts the Kamalri system is still functioning. The greater problem is that there are many chances that the rescued Tharu girls will return to their previous conditions and work as Kamalris if the supports from the NGOs and INGOs to abolish Kamalri practice are stopped. In order to eradicate or minimize this system, there is a need to uplift the economic conditions of the Tharu community and train them by providing various skills and opportunities in order to increase their living standard. Financial independence, awareness, mainstreaming in development and child labour law enforcement are the major recommendations to make positive changes in the life of Kamalari families.