Turning a blind eye

It is a mockery of Nepal’s administration and security agencies that those committing heinous crimes are escaping punishment just because the CA election is at hand, “Legal remedy looks distant as poll violence goes on” (THT, March 30). As Election Commissioner Neel Kantha Upreti said, “a crime is a crime, be it committed around the election time or at any other time.” In the month of March alone, five people have lost their lives and many more have been seriously injured. But not a single person has been prosecuted for poll-related violence.

And what does the recent spate of violence say about the unity of the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) and about the prospects of meaningful dialogue between the government and disgruntled Tarai groups? Apparently, things are not getting any better on either front. Unless those responsible for the violence are brought to justice, the culture of impunity will increase.

Jenith Subba, via e-mail

It’s a joke

The Public Service Commission (PSC) is all set to conduct entry exams for vacant posts in the civil service. Under the Ministry of Forest alone, PSC has announced 74 vacancies including two seats for differently-abled. Ironically, the seats are unlikely to be filled as disabled students are unqualified for the available positions.

Tribhuvan University does not admit disabled students for forestry courses. It is commendable that the government is concerned about the plight of the disabled and other

marginalised and disadvantaged communities. But at the same time, it is imperative that the existing anomalies are removed.

Suraj Upadhaya,

Kathmandu

Brutal

The Tibetan exiles who have been protesting against the repressive policies of the Chinese government have been subjected to a brutal treatment by Nepali police personnel. Scores of Tibetan protestors are beaten up and detained in the capital everyday. The government has adopted ‘one China policy’ and stepped up its crackdown against the protestors. As Nepal too is on the threshold of democratic transition, it should extend its support to the Tibetans and respect the fundamental rights of all Tibetans.

Tsering Tashi Gurung,

via e-mail

Only way out

I believe the international community should support the cause of protesting Tibetan exiles. After decades of oppression, the Tibetans are crying for freedom and change. The Chinese

government has been forced to make the tough choice between repression and dialogue. President Hu Jintao needs to understand that “Made in China” exports and the upcoming Olympics in Beijing will have the support of the world community only if he follows the path of talks.

Tenpa Gurmey, via e-mail

Walk the talk

US president George W Bush has urged the Chinese authorities to grant more political freedom to the Tibet. Ironically, this comes at a time when his own initiatives to restore

democracy in Iraq and elsewhere have been glaring failures. However, this is not to imply that China should ignore the voice of the Tibetan protestors.

Sabin Thapa, via e-mail