Biased observations

This is in reference to Govinda Raj Joshi’s edit page article “Nepali politics” (THT, Dec. 18). The writer, though himself a prominent politician, has presented a misinterpreted elaboration of the current Nepali politics. It seems as if Joshi is heavily influenced by the faultfinding culture so prevalent in Nepali politics. His allegation that the Maoists and other leftists just want to grab power by hook or by crook is full of prejudice and is without foundation. Joshi would be better informed if he did a bit of introspection on the history of Nepali Congress (NC) that institutionalised corruption during the early years of restoration of democracy in Nepal.

Though the Maoists are not completely free of blame, one should not forget their contribution in overthrowing the autocratic regime and their ongoing fight against the feudal society. Joshi has further predicted in the article that it was unlikely that the Maoists would win even a single constituency if they participated in the polls.

On the contrary, the people want to see a change in status quo as they have already seen what the political parties, except the Maoists (who were formerly out of the fray of mainstream politics), are capable of doing. Though we cannot say whether the Maoists will get people’s consent to rule and implement their revolutionary policies, Nepalis would not want to entrust their faith back to the same political leaders whose only credentials are as

money-grabbers.

Binodmani Bhattarai, Tinkune, Kathmandu

Public loos

This refers to the news report “Nepal to have a cultural policy soon: Minister” (THT, Dec. 18). It it good that Nepal government has decided to formulate a cultural policy in order preserve the cultural heritages in Nepal for the first time in its history.

Though the government has made every effort in recent years to preserve ancient temples and monuments, especially those in the Valley, there still remains a lot to be done. As the first step towards that end, the government should build public toilets in areas that are major tourist attractions.

Rajendra Gurubacharya, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu

Dirty politics

The deferral of CA polls time and again is a measure of the SPA’s linability. The political leaders are themselves confused about the future course of action. No wonder the general public is uncertain about the future of the country. Not much can be achieved by confused minds.

If the political leaders are honest, they can lead the country and the people in the right direction. Merely adding the term “new” doesn’t change the ground realities. Lack of commitment is the main reason for the dismal state of the country today.

Khushi, via e-mail

Power cut

It is very sad that the government is all set to increase the hours of power cut despite the country’s vast water resources. Six hours of complete darkness every week will seriously

affect the daily lives of people, particularly students. What an irony: We wish them a bright

future even though they are having to fritter away precious hours in total darkness.

Rupa Basynet, via e-mail