Sustainable democracy:

This is in response to Dr Ganga Thapa’s write-up “Democratic practice: Will it be sustainable in Nepal?” (THT, June 21). As Thapa hints, for the sustainability of democracy in Nepal, the behaviour of political leaders and the culture of the political parties should change according to the need of the times. This is vital for the consolidation of democracy which can only be achieved by combating social exclusion, racism, oppression and all forms of discrimination. Sadly, the leaders of the eight parties have habitually ignored the grievances of the masses.

Devi Prasasd Bhattarai, Lecturer, Central Dept of Education, TU

What CA?:

I keep abreast of the latest happenings in the political arena through the news media. And yet I am very confused about what exactly is meant by a Constituent Assembly (CA). Recent polls have shown that many villagers haven’t even heard about the CA. The rural population constitutes the majority of the voters in the country. Therefore, it is necessary for the government to launch massive awareness campaigns, especially in the villages, to make the people understand why the CA and the issues involved in it are important . As we have just five months for that, we cannot afford not to move fast.

Deenita Angdembe, via e-mail

Balaju pool:

This is in reference to the news report “Balaju swimming pool doing brisk business this summer” (THT, June 24). As a foreign resident who frequently visits the garden, I can vouch that the environment on busy days is anything but ‘peaceful’. In fact, the noise, congestion and pollution can be overwhelming.

A few suggestions, if followed, could really make the place beautiful. First of all, people should not be allowed to cook and play loud music, nor should they be permitted to take food and beverages inside the park. Rather, the two main food stalls (the one at the main garden and the other near the swimming pool area) should be renovated by building large brick patios with chairs and umbrella tables. More staff should be hired to clean the trash and there should be more litter-bins. A separate entrance should be built for the swimming pool.

And lastly, keep the toilets clean.

John Snyder, Kathmandu

Good news:

I was happy to read about the initiative taken by local residents of the Kathmandu Durbar Square area to keep the historic area clean, “Locals tell vendors to keep off Hanumandhoka square” (THT, June 25). This UNESCO Heritage Site and tourist destination was being turned into a dump. In this context, political parties and student organisations should help by opting for other places like Ratna Park and Open Air Theatre to hold mass meetings of any kind.

Mayju Tuladhar, via e-mail

Add page:

THT has made a huge contribution in the development of journalism in Nepal by providing unbiased news and views in diverse fields such as politics, business, entertainment and sports. But it has not given due importance to science. To make THT more popular, it is necessary to add a page devoted to the issues related to science and technology.

Nirajan Dulal, Melamchi