Hayu family returns to Sindhuli after receiving assurances of support

POKHARA: A 16-member family of the endangered Hayu indigenous group, who arrived in Pokhara last week seeking better living conditions, has returned to their home village in Sindhuli following assurances of employment, housing, and debt relief.

The family had initially refused to go back, citing poor health, economic hardship, and lack of safety in their village. Some members also said they had been advised by shamans to leave their village due to spiritual concerns.

The family, led by Urmila Hayu (45), had left their village in Golanjor Rural Municipality–6, without informing anyone. They were reported missing on July 27 (11 Shrawan), prompting a widespread search involving state security agencies. Two days later, they were found safe in a rented room at Gagangauda in Pokhara–30.

Golanjor’s Ward-6 Chairperson Rabin Shrestha persuaded the family to return to their home village. They were officially sent off on Monday afternoon by Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya and Ward-30 Chairperson Durga Subedi.

Although unwilling to return initially, the family agreed to go back after receiving assurances from local and federal representatives. Lwmaker from Sindhuli, Shyam Kumar Ghimire, has guaranteed employment for two family members, while the local ward office has expressed commitment to facilitate repayment of the family’s debts.