Dzongkhag Tshogdu Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons are attending a weeklong training on Nangkha Nangdrik in Thimphu. The President of the Bhutan National Legal Institute (BNLI), Her Royal Highness the Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, graced the opening ceremony yesterday.
This is the first time Dzongkhag Tshogdu Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons are being trained on Nangkha Nangdrik mediation skills and techniques. Mangmis and Tshogpas have already received the training.
Nangkha Nangdrik is an alternative dispute resolution that would help people to resolve disputes, especially civil in nature, without having to go to the courts. Nangkha Nangdrik has been practiced in the country for many years. But as times passed by, not many people turned to the age old practice for dispute resolution. Instead, even cases that can be solved amicably are taken to courts.
The training of local leaders on Nangkha Nangdrik first began in 2012. According to BNLI, more than 15 thousand disputes were settled through Nangkha Nangdrik at the grassroots level so far since 2012. This, the Institute says is a clear indication of the training proving useful.
“As per the local government act, Mangmis are responsible for dispute settlement in the communities. But many villagers prefer Gups to take care of the job. With the training , I hope we will be able to do a proper job,” said Karma Gyeltshen, the Deputy Chairperson of Thimphu Dzongkhag.
Jangchuk, a legal officer from the BNLI said the Gups will be trained next, which will mean all local leaders will be equipped with skills and techniques to mediate and settle disputes in their respective communities.
