Things to be seen

Things are really heating up with just 24 days left for the CA polls on April 10. All the major political parties are out campaigning, trying to lure the voters with whatever methods they can. It will be really interesting to see how the Maoists fare in the election. First, it remains to be seen if the people accept them as a legitimate political outfit capable of taking over the reins of power. It will also be equally intriguing to watch if the Maoists (and particularly YCL cadres) resort to their mischievous ways if they see the April 10 verdict going against them. CPN-Maoist chairman Prachanda has not helped the cause of his party much by making remarks about the Maoists heading the post-election government. Ultimately, it is the voters who will decide everything. They are expected to elect clean and responsible candidates to the Constituent Assembly, which will map the future of Nepal.

Lok Man Pandey, New Baneswor

Pricked pride

Hanumante, the chief river of Bhaktapur, is getting more and more polluted by the day. The sewage system of Bhaktapur district is connected to this river. Holy places like Baharai temple, Bhimsen temple, Hanumanghat, Chupighat, Mangaltirtha are located on the river. People are facing great difficulties in paying homage to these religious sites due to the increase in pollution.

Bhaktapur is an important tourist destination. But guides do not bring tourists to visit these historic monuments because they are polluted. Agricultural production by the river has also gone down drastically. I would like to know where does all the money being set aside for the river’s conservation go?

Rabin Rachalica, Green Team, Bhaktapur

This too

A resident of Kupondole, I am very sad and disheartened to see the deteriorating condition of the sacred Bagmati river.

Nobody seems to care. When will this culture of neglect end and the government take concrete steps to conserve the country’s real treasures, her natural heritage?

Vivek Dhakal, St Xavier

College, Maitighar

Midnight din

This concerns the ongoing anti-China protests at Boudha. Tibetans have every right to protest, but stupas and temples are not the proper places for these activities. If they want to protest, they should gather outside the Chinese Embassy and make their voice heard. Shouting slogans at midnight around the premises of the Boudha stupa will serve no purpose other than disturbing local residents. I request the Tibetan refugees and their respected leaders to stop mounting political protests at religious sites like Boudhanath.

Ramesh Lama, Boudha

Flying lolas

The purpose of any festival is to bring colour to life and forget one’s troubles for the time being. But the arrival of Holi brings nightmares for ladies. They have to duck and run from lolas wherever they go. The worst thing about the festival is that even mature people, not just children, are engaged in this undesirable practice, which also reduces the movement of people for days.

Manoj Thapa, via e-mail