Apr 26, Kathmandu - Tribhuvan University has given 18 organizations, including the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), a 35-day ultimatum to vacate land in its possession. The university issued a notice on Baisakh 4, demanding the return of encroached land within this period.

An official from Tribhuvan University stated that notices have been sent to those utilizing university land, instructing them to vacate within 35 days. "As part of our decision to reclaim the encroached land, notices have been issued to 18 associations, organizations, and institutions. The agreement with CAN will come to an end from this deadline," the official added.

A committee led by Mahendra Kumar Thapa, formed to investigate land encroachments, found that various locations inside and outside the Kirtipur campus have been illegally occupied. The report revealed that organizations such as the Laboratory Secondary School, CAN, and Water Supply Board are among those using university land. Additionally, the Nepal Progressive Professors' Association (NPPA), the Nepal University Teacher's Association, Kirtipur Municipality, public toilets, and bus parks are also occupying university land.

The committee noted that the agreement with CAN is set to expire at the end of Baisakh. It also observed that some organizations are constructing structures without proper approval from Tribhuvan University.

Tribhuvan University’s Registrar Office’s General Administration Division has also issued a letter to the Nepal Cricket Association. All organizations and associations have been given a 35-day deadline to vacate land through official notices.

Chhumbi Lama, spokesperson for the CAN, confirmed receipt of the ultimatum letter and said further details are awaited.

According to the investigation report, delays and lack of proactive measures by university officials to protect the property have led to a problematic situation. The report also suggests that some land has been misused with involvement from land mafias and high-level political figures. It alleges that political interference has led to protection and encroachment of university land, often shielding the encroachers.

The report further states that, in 2081 BS, approximately 1,000 ropani of land within Kirtipur was found to be encroached upon.