Referendum is better

Altogether, 62 political parties have already registered with the Election Commission (EC). If the government is successful in conducting CA polls (which I doubt) the people would have to choose among 62 model constitutions. It will not be an easy task to go through all of them. It is also not clear whether it would be the EC’s responsibility or the parties’ to educate the people about the models.

Instead of going through such a cumbersome process, we should take a short-cut to an ‘inclusive republican democracy.’ The government has already announced that a second amendment to the Interim Constitution will be made. If the amendment is passed, the two-thirds majority can then declare Nepal a republic. But the parliament can also bring in an amendment whereby a simple majority could ask for UN expertise in drafting a constitution that would have tacit approval of the Janajatis, Dalits, Madhesis and Women. The draft should then be put to a referendum. This could save us the trouble of going through all 62 model constitutions.

Referendum is thus an easy option. The Republican Draft Constitution should be ready before the first week of Bhadra, 2064, and referendum should be scheduled for the first week of Mangsir, 2064.

Ravi Manandhar, Kuleswor

New height

Nepali cricket has come a long way in a relatively short period. This is indeed a big achievement. Thanks to the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and the tireless efforts of the coaches like Roy Dias, the game has been lifted to a new level. This has increased Nepal’s chances of participating in major international tournaments.

However, more credit for the development of this game should go to local clubs like the Baluwatar Cricket Club and Mahabir Club. They have played a significant role in grooming new cricketing talents for over two decades now. The BCC’s winning of Kathmandu District Senior Selection Cricket Tournament was the result of the good players it nurtured over the years. Such clubs should be rewarded.

Sabin Thapa, Galfutar

Wrong focus

Although 90 per cent of Nepalis are engaged in agriculture and farming, the media has neglected this sector. News relating to the farmers, peasants or shepherds hardly appears in your newspaper. THT should give more news and articles relating to the issues and problems faced by the farmers. Instead of merely exposing city lifestyles and giving glamour stories, THT should search for stories that depict the harsh realities being faced by thousands of people in rural Nepal.

Parikschit, via e-mail

No action

People had expected that the Maoists would take stern action against the monarch after joining the government. But even after a month of being in the government, nothing has been done to nationalise the King’s property or curtail his privileges. The PM, as expected, has done nothing towards this end. It is thus high time the people put pressure on the Maoists and the other parties to implement all past decisions regarding curtailment of the King’s rights and privileges. Delay in this will be dangerous as it might give the King another chance to usurp state powers.

Poshak Gnawali, Gangabu