Stop cutting down trees

The urge for democratic rights of the Nepalis bore fruits — so the people thought — after the

restoration of democracy in 2047 BS. But the 14 years of post restored democracy

period was squandered by the political leaders who came into power. They were only interested in reaping the fruits for themselves rather than serving the needs of the people and the nation. The result of all that failure and lack of vision for future of the nation is now being forced onto Nepali populace in the form of unprecedented violence.

While the rest of the country still reels under violence, Kathmandu especially may have enjoyed a sense of relief under the semblance of improved security following the February 1 royal move. But that too seems to be proving wrong. While it is the people suffering in the countryside, the capital city is facing road rage: different species of trees lining our streets are being cut down on the absurd pretext of security risk. This inexcusable act of cutting down trees amounts to vandalism from the point of an ordinary citizen like me but may be justified as an act of false achievement by those doing it, who are guided by misplaced logic and values. In any case, legal action must be initiated against those responsible for this act.

Jaya Dev Baidya,

Thapathali, Kathmandu

Glorification

I would like to request THT and other newspapers not to glorify public nuisances like bandhs, chakka jams and torch rallies. For example, if there is a bandh, it is a newspaper’s duty to report the happening. But a newspaper should not give advance notice that spreads anxiety among the people. Almost every day, there is a picture of some torch rally. Torch rallies are not only illegal; they are a fire hazard. Such processions should be stopped. The media has a social responsibility to help stop such bad things. By giving prominent coverage, you are indirectly instigating students to bunk classes and march on the streets.

Bhai Kaji Bhaju,

Kathmandu

Too political

I am a regular reader of THT and apart from ritual appreciation I would like to say that the contents of page 1, 3, and 4 are turning unbearably political these days. Although there is

nothing wrong in covering politics, we would also like to read more about art, culture, science, social stories, problems of the people, water scarcity, power cuts, dead telephones, roads, and so on. The city is crying for help and we cannot always read what Girija Babu or Madhav Comrade or Kirtinidhi has to say.

Nisha Gurung, Naya Baneshwore

Positive step

The writ petition filed by advocate Pundevi Maharjan in the Supreme Court (SC) on May 6 is a positive step to safeguard the rights of Kumaris. The writ petition does not demand an order to stop the Kumari Pratha (practice). It is only to ensure that the rights of Kumaris are not violated. It seems much more relevant to protect the Living Goddess’ right to movement, education, health, privacy, right against exploitation and right to equal protection of law. The writ petition has been framed to maintain balance between the communities’ cultural and religious rights and Kumaris’ individual liberties.

Om Prakash Aryal,

via e-mail