Optimism hard to find

While the fate of democracy hangs in balance due to the uncertainty as regards the constituent assembly (CA) polls, the developments following the April movement have left Nepalis in no better position than before. For instance, take the long hours of load shedding even during the rainy season in a country rich in hydropower potential. Add to it the unpredictability of protest programmes that leave you with no option other than to be prepared for any eventuality, especially if you are on a long journey.

Besides, the political parties themselves do not seem ready for the CA polls yet. The government’s indifference to the plight of flood victims in Tarai does not leave much room for

optimism either. Unless the political leaders, instead of squabbling over petty

matters, addressed the pressing problems facing the public and create a conducive atmosphere for the CA polls, building a new Nepal would remain a distant dream.

Anjan, via e-mail

Sad sight

The recent spate of skirmishes between students affiliated to different unions had left people scratching their heads.

Students should rather be devoting their time to other important matters, as they will have to shoulder the burden of building a new Nepal tomorrow. The political leaders have time and again used students as pawns. It is now time the students freed themselves from political grip and engaged themselves in constructive works.

Shiva Neupane,

Galyang, Syangja

Re-think

This is in reference to the news report “Maoist proposal bares inter-party rift” (THT, August 19). The much awaited meeting of the leaders of the eight political parties on Saturday ended inconclusively, as often in the past. The 18-point proposal the Maoists presented appears to have been the bone of contention.

Some of the demands of the Maoists, like declaring the country a republic before the CA elections and removal of Nepali Army personnel from Narayanhity Palace are impractical.

It would therefore be wise for the Maoists to re-think and withdraw some of their unreasonable demands. Although the next meeting is scheduled for August 23, differences between the NC and the Maoists are unlikely to be resolved unless the Maoists relent.

Abijit Sharma,

Dhapasi, Kathmandu

Flouting rules

Apropos of the news report “Most ambulances in the capital trampling rules” (THT, August 19), 90 per cent of the ambulances operating in Kathmandu reportedly flout the rules governing their operation. Most of them not only do not have the word ‘ambulance’

inscribed on front and back, they also lack essential medical equipment in case of emergencies.

As per the regulations stipulated in the Ambulance Service Operation Policy 2003, the Red Cross Society Nepal, which is the sole authority to regulate and monitor the operation of

ambulances, should push for strict action against the violators. This is a serious business that aims to save the lives of people who are in urgent need of medical care.

Basant Deokota, Gaurighat