Dang, November 3:

Injured People’s Liberation Army combatants, sheltering in the Dirgha Smiriti Brigade at Bijauri VDC of Dang district, have accused the CPN-Maoist and the government of not bothering to address their problems.

These combatants, who were injured during the decade-long insurgency, have been facing

hardships galore.

Chakrapani Dhakal of Kotamaula Village Development Committee-7 is one among them. He was injured during the Khara attack in Rukum on April 7, 2005.

“Even after coming to power, the CPN-Maoist has provided me with relief that is simply insufficient,” says he.

Lal Bahadur Woli ‘Suresh’ of the camp says he lost eyesight after the police subjected him to electric shock during the insurgency.

“Life for the disabled is tough. I am expecting assistance from my party,” says he. “At least we should be provided proper food, shelter and education.”

Gita Laa ‘Ashika’ of Ramechhap, who was hurt in a cross-fire in Khotang, echoes Suresh and Dhakal. With bullets still embedded in her body, Ashika says she wants the CPN-Maoist to come to her help.

“We fought the war obeying the party’s direction. We should not be deprived of support at a time when our party is heading the government,” Ashika added.

Punarshila Bantha had also sustained bullet injuries in the Khara attack.

“We are not expecting much from the government and the party. Though we have been injured, we can work. The government and the CPN-Maoist should help the handicapped People’s Liberation Army personnel get jobs.”

Khusiram Chaudhary of Dang’s Hapur Village Development Committee-5, who was hurt in the Khara, Beni and Arghakhanchi attacks, is still on medication.

“I am surviving on medicines. Our party should take care of the injured PLA soldiers, their families and martyrs and the disappeared,” maintains Chaudhary. “We are worried as the leaders are turning a deaf ear to our woes.”

No different is the plight of other combatants. Around three dozens handicapped victims have been taking shelter in the Sakram Camp in the district.

Echoing the voice of the handicapped combatants, brigade commander Santosh says, “I also feel that the party and the government have been ignoring the injured PLA fighters.”