Sectarian propaganda

It is amazing why the Hindu organisations of the country are feeling let down and threatened by the decision of the parliament to declare Nepal a secular state.

According to the news “Stir against secular state decision” (THT, May 25), Hindu organisations, including the World Hindu Federation, have intensified their stir against the House of Representatives’ proclamation that declared Nepal a secular state.

Rallies were held and roads blocked in Birgunj recently. The Hindu activists have been organising protest programmes against the declaration in the past few days demanding that the House declare Nepal a Hindu state once again. This is an impossible proposition and this sort of crazy demand is going to further push the country into chaos and sectarian violence.

All the people, including the Hindus and the followers of the other minority religions, should understand the importance of a secular nation, in which all would respect the right to religion of other groups. This will let the minorities feel more secure. I see no problem with the parliament’s decision. The Hindu fundamentalists should stop the unnecessary propaganda.

Hari Giri, Kathmandu

Bit too far

As per the people’s aspirations, the House of Representatives in its Declaration 2006, has stripped the king of almost all his powers. It is good that the political leaders are now doing whatever possible to guarantee people’s sovereignty.

But I think they have gone a bit too far by declaring Nepal a secular state, as the issue of religion has never been a problem in this country. Irrespective of the minorities living in the country, Nepal has been proud of being the only Hindu Kingdom in the world.

Avisek Khanal, via e-mail

Irrelevant

This refers to the news “Oli to update NAM members on Nepal” published in THT on May 25. Non-aligned Movement (NAM) is no more relevant in today’s unipolar world, especially after the collapse of the USSR and end of the Cold War.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Oli is thus making a futile trip by leading a three-member delegation to Kuala Lumpur to participate in the NAM’s ministerial level meeting. I also think that time is not appropriate for such a visit, which will cost a good sum of public money.

Instead of planning useless trips, the ministers in particular and the government in general should think about holding talks with the Maoists so that some stability could be brought about in the current confused situation.

Yonkom Bhote, Shankhamool

Be clear

It is good that the Maoists’ central committee member Dinanath Sharma has emphasised on a self-reliant and independent economy. As a delegate of the three-member Maoist talk team, his commitment to human rights, rule of law and press freedom (THT, May 24) is welcome in the present changed political context.

He has, however, said nothing about the ongoing extortions resorted to by the Maoists. If the rebels are now coming forward for peace talks and resolution of the conflict, why not stop all forceful ‘donation’ drives?

Dinesh Dangol, via e-mail