Hetauda, Oct. 2 -- Two rural municipalities in Hetauda-Makwanpurgadhi and Manahari-have started implementing the Social Reform Act.

"The Act has been introduced to curb the dowry system, gender pay gap and other ill practices. This Act will also prevent unnecessary expenditures, especially during weddings," said Bidur Humagain, chief of Makwanpurgadhi. "The Act will also help control corruption."

Manahari's chief Ekraj Uprety echoed Humagain. "We are trying to first bring the Act into practice among local representatives," Uprety said.

As per the Act, one is prohibited from taking more than 51 people as jantis in nuptial ceremonies, and over 25 people in religious functions; taking and giving dowry, and anything costing more than Rs1,0...