Change the guard

In less than two years, two prime ministers, both handpicked by the King, concluded their tenure without solving the Maoist problem. Instead, the crisis is aggravated further. By now, the King must have learnt that promises of elections and frequent change of prime minister is no solution. Without addressing the real issue, only cosmetic solutions would not help to end the present political crisis. Instead efforts should be made to prepare a “road map” for peace that is acceptable to all including the Maoists and to adjust the King’s role within a constitutional monarchy. As for the politicians, they are responsible for the present political imbroglio because it took them more than 12 years to realise that they have made a mockery of democracy. The achievements of 1990 Andolan are nothing but a smokescreen to cover up their own vested interests. If they claim to represent the people, then why did they not protest for abrogation of Article 127, which is written against the spirit of democratic principles earlier?

Loday Sherpa, via e-mail

Touchy article

The article titled “Striving to be a rahis” by Roshan Deuja published recently in Midway is almost coincidental to my past. Thanks to the writer for bringing out such an inspiring and touchy article. There are so many people like us who have unfortunately been through tough days in life. Despite all this, we must show perseverance, that will eventually lead us to success as suggested by Roshan. Finally, I wish for the writer’s continuing success and happiness in the days ahead.

Anjan Gurung, Pokhara

Carelessness

Recently I had to visit Kathmandu Model Hospital to get my sick brother treated. He had fever and severe headache. We had hoped that the doctors would diagnose the illness properly. Blood and stool tests were conducted and we were asked to come after five days to get the report and was prescribed some medicines. However, his temperature would just not come to normal. After five days when we went to meet the doctor again, she advised completing the course of prescription. When the course of medicine was complete, we got back. The patient was getting weaker day by day. He was sent for blood examination once again. This time he was diagnosed with typhoid. A general physician at the hospital, then advised not to continue with the earlier medication. This is nothing but carelessness. I am surprised how medical experts can afford to make such blunders. The authorities must take action against those doctors who mishandle patients.

P R Sharma, via e-mail

Price hike

The vice-chairman of the National Planning Commission (NPC) has recently said that the price of petroleum products should be hiked to lessen the loss of state owned oil corporation. The experts, who are in decision making level, always think that hike in price, almost in all sectors, is the solution. It seems price hiking has been a communicable disease. My query is directed to those persons who never think about the slash in price from those sectors where there is maximum profit, for example in Nepal Telecom services. Nepal Telecom officials have said several times about the reduction of price of telephone services but in vain. I would like to ask a question to the vice-chairman of the NPC — have you ever thought over this? Why can the authorities not work towards a positive way to solve problems?

Komal Dulal, Maitidevi