No let up

That the schedule for drafting the constitution was rescheduled for the sixth time recently makes even the most optimistic person disappointed. However, Constituent Assembly Chairman Subash Nembang feels confident enough to assert that the statute would be promulgated as per the schedule. There is a catch in that the political parties have to exhibit unity, which is taking a back seat, especially during the recent past that is seeing greater polarisation between the two ruling parties, CPN (UML) and Nepali Congress, and the main opposition UCPN (Maoist). When the blast of tirades emanates from each of the camps, the idea of a common meeting point cannot take root. In fact, looking back, it was a semblance of consensus that saw the country conducting the historical CA election, the declaration of Nepal as a federal democratic republic, the formation of the first government of the republic, and the country having its first president, among other things. But, the whole idea of reaching a consensus has become a mirage with the major parties out at the war of words and blame game rather than coming out with concrete joint action plans. Going a step further, the Maoists have embarked on a defiant move as its cadres are

active in deliberately trying to thwart cabinet ministers from attending official functions, and attempts were even made to obstruct the prime minister’s attendance at certain venues in the past week. Peaceful protests are welcome, but stone pelting to disturb an otherwise peaceful atmosphere has to be condemned as it puts the transitional phase at the edge.

As a continuation of its long-term strategy, the UCPN (M) has focused its salvo of criticisms on the Nepali Congress party of late. In fact, the Maoists are proverbially well-known to pick out the choicest phrases when it comes to being critical. UCPN (M) chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal, not to be outdone for the loss of the driving seat

of power, has time and again unleashed a barrage

of epithets to belittle his political rivals to gain

political mileage. The verbal onslaught has, of course, raised eyebrows. The criticism that were once

directed towards the CPN (UML) have now been redirected on the NC. This is but a design to create a rift between the major ruling parties in the hope of toppling the government. But, NC has made it plain and clear that its support for the UML-led government will continue without any let up. This shows how much the NC is concerned about the uncalled for activities of the Maoists.

In this context, the NC leaders are not very much into the game of calling the other parties’ leaders names. But, reaching out to the people is important, and a fitting reply to the Maoist disinformation

campaign is more than necessary as the political

culture dictates. It also gives an indication of the overtime work that the NC leaders have to undertake at this crucial juncture of backing the UML-led

government to the fullest extent. With its major role in bringing Nepal to this point, the road ahead requires NC’s greater involvement, shunning greed for power all the while. However, consensus among the major parties would be a boon.

Jolt into action

A strong earthquake Monday with its epicentre just inside Bhutan’s border with India brought down buildings and monasteries killing at least eleven people. The tremor was also felt in the eastern part of Nepal. The quake measuring 6.1 in magnitude has brought destruction in its wake. Nepal too is very vulnerable to earthquakes, and is considered to be one of the high risk areas for tremors. Major earthquakes in the country could take a heavy toll of human lives and property. Although it is realized that such earthquakes are inevitable, there seems to be little preparedness. Most of the buildings are built without adhering to the building code. The government should do something about this and take drastic measures if necessary like dismantling such houses. After all, it is a precaution that is worth taking for it would save thousands of lives.

It would be helpful to carry out earthquake drills with the people participating so as to minimize casualties should a severe quake occur. The hospitals should also participate in the drills and other rescue organizations like the fire brigade for the possible emergency. The sooner, and regularly this is done the better will it be.