Kathmandu, November 12:

The National Youth Association has demanded the inclusion of non-political youths in the taskforce entrusted with framing the National Youth Policy (NYP).

An NYA delegation made the demand while handing over a five-point memorandum to Minister for Youth and Sports, Gopal Shakya.

Mani Pokharal, president, NYA, said the decision to have politically-indoctrinated youths in the taskforce should be rolled back. “The taskforce cannot be said to be complete without the participation of youths from the non-political sector.”

“A new taskforce should be formed by organising a national workshop. The taskforce should include youths from non-political sectors. Representatives of different organisations and experts can be included in such a body. This will also make the taskforce less controversial.”

“We want the ministry to come up with plans and programmes that safeguard the rights of the youths. Programmes that serve the interests of parties alone are of no use,” said he.

“The ministry should work in tandem with youth organisations to safeguard rights of the youth.”

Minister Shakya said the ministry was working to include youths in the taskforce.

He said the ministry would organise workshops in all development regions in coordination with the youth organisation. “We would form a taskforce with the participation of youths from different sectors.” NYA members threatened to stage a protest if their demands not addressed. Allegations abound that governments often favour youths with political affiliations. Subsequently, the apolitical youths feel left out in decision-making.