Empowering traditional Bhalmansa (Badghar) institutions across Western Nepal to maintain customary law, foster grassroots democracy, and drive sustainable rural development.
The Badghar system resolves over 85% of community disputes locally through mutual dialogue, preserving social cohesion without court litigation.
Unbroken Customary Democracy
The **Badghar (Bhalmansa)** governance system is an ancient, indigenous democratic institution practiced by the Tharu people across Western Nepal (Kailali, Kanchanpur, Bardiya, Banke, and Dang). Rooted in principles of mutual aid, restorative justice, and community stewardship, every Tharu village annually elects its governance officers during the Maghi festival.
The **Bharghar-Bhalmansa Central Council** was established to register, formalize, and unite ward and municipal Badghar committees into a recognized institutional body, ensuring indigenous customary laws are integrated into Nepal's local government framework.
To legalize customary Badghar bylaws across all municipalities and empower grassroots leaders.
A harmonious society where indigenous Tharu culture, rights, and local justice flourish.
Select District, Municipality, Ward, and Village to inspect active Bhalmansa, Chiraki, Guruwa, and village committee members.
Every Tharu village functions through a structured democratic hierarchy elected annually during the Maghi festival.
The primary leader chosen unanimously or by vote. Oversees local governance, infrastructure management, dispute settlements, and socio-cultural rituals.
Responsible for field communication, informing households about village meetings (Khel), emergency assemblies, collective labor duties, and official news.
Preserves traditional medicine, leads village spiritual ceremonies (Than-Puja), crop-blessing rituals, and protects cultural traditions.
Track completed social works, legal enactments, customary irrigation repairs, and upcoming community assemblies.
Elected office bearers leading advocacy and organizational goals at the national level.