Nepal, May 4 -- A group of 28 prominent citizens has issued a strongly worded public appeal accusing the government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah of undermining democratic norms, violating constitutional provisions, and adopting increasingly authoritarian practices, calling for an immediate halt to what they describe as "arbitrary rule."

The appeal sharply criticizes recent forced evictions of residents from informal settlements, alleging that the actions were carried out without proper verification, rehabilitation plans, or safeguards for vulnerable populations. According to the statement, the evictions have already resulted in two suicides and left thousands-including pregnant women and children-without shelter, healthcare, or a...