Violence no solution

Over the years, we three well wishers of Nepal, have observed the struggle in this country for social and economic justice. With the recent demonstrations and violence, we are deeply moved and are motivated to share some words of late Dr Martin Luther King, one of the great leaders of non-violence movement, who led the struggle for civil rights for the black people in the US during the 60s. His words seem to be appropriate in Nepal’s context: “Mass civil disobedience as a new stage of struggle can transmute the deep rage of the oppressed into a constructive and creative force. To dislocate the functioning of a city without destroying it can be more effective than a riot because it is longer-lasting, costly to the larger society, but not wantonly destructive. Finally, it is a device of social action that is more difficult to quell by superior force.” ‘The limitation of riots, moral questions aside, is that they cannot win and their participants know it. Hence, rioting is not revolutionary but reactionary because it invites defeat. It involves an emotional catharsis, but it must be followed by a sense of futility.”

“The non-violent approach does not immediately change the heart of the oppressor. It first does something to the hearts and souls of those committed to it. It gives them new self-respect; it calls up resources of strength and courage they did not know they had. Finally, it reaches the opponent and so stirs his conscience that reconciliation becomes a reality.”

“Violence as a way of achieving justice is both impractical and immoral. It is impractical because it is a descending spiral ending in destruction for all. The old law of an eye for an eye leaves everybody blind. It is immoral because it thrives on hatred rather than love. It destroys community and makes brotherhood impossible. It leaves society in monologue rather than dialogue.” We share these wise words in the spirit of hope, respect and great affection for the people of Nepal. Wicki Van De Veer, Michael Van De Veer, Michelle

Morouse, Hawaii

Caste aside

It is mentioned in the Muluki Ain that there is no caste hierarchy. But there is a lot of gap between theory and practice. Some of the Dalits, who come from remote villages for their higher studies in cities, are compelled to hide their identity, particularly their caste. They pretend that they belong to superior castes. They live in dismay. All talks of human rights apart, people do not have a sense of equality even now. I hope people will give up this kind of narrow mindedness soon.

Bishnu Nepali, Tanahun

Repetition

I am a regular reader of your newspaper. This is in reference to the column “Just in jest” by Hi Lama dated April 21. The joke of that day was a repetition of an already published joke in the same column on March 25. It is natural to commit mistakes. But if this happens repeatedly, it will certainly disappoint readers. I suggest that you be careful in future.

Bidur Acharya, Tri-Chandra Campus

Bold stand

Kudos to S P Lohani for such a nice and bold observation in his letter titled “King right” published on April 23. Indeed, Nepalis are behind the King, who is their actual “saviour.” The so-called Jana Aandolan against “regression” is to restore regression by the parties. The King should not bow down to khaobadi vandalism. Instead, he should go ahead with the polls. New people’s forces will emerge definitely with the outcome of general election.

Dipankar Shrestha, Gabahal