Learn from the past

Every Democracy Day leaders make empty promises on democracy and economic progress. This year too, Prime Minister G P Koirala, reminded the public of the need to correct past mistakes and pave the way for building a New Nepal. But the shortage of fuel and electricity, poor garbage management and unending political bickering make me wonder if those at the helm of affairs have really learned anything from past mistakes. Their talk of willingness to learn from the past should reflect in concrete actions. And they don’t have to look far to find a model of a well-functioning democracy. Our immediate neighbour has witnessed great social and economic progress, thanks to the fruits of democracy.

Surya B Prasai, via e-mail

Where’s it?

The government has provided the Maoists more than Rs 370 million for the management of the newly-established cantonment sites. But the sorry state of cantonments suggests that most of the sum is going towards fulfilling the privileges of top Maoist leaders who have flocked to the capital and other cities. On the other hand, if the Maoists have nothing to hide, they should make public where the big sum of money is being spent. Otherwise, we can hardly trust them with running a corruption-free and transparent government.

Pranav Gautam, via e-mail

Wrong bit

If King Gyanendra had genuine feelings for his country and the countrymen, he should have agreed to let go his excess property for the greater good of the public. But he rather chose the occasion of the Democracy Day to vindicate his much reviled royal coup of February 1, 2005.

Ishwari Pradhan, via e-mail

Victimised

Innocent Nepalis are bearing the brunt of frequent bandhs and chakkajams. The vandalisation of ambulances and vehicles of rights activists, journalists and members of humanitarian missions during bandhs are also on the rise. If the organisers cannot keep their supporters in control then they have no right to call bandhs. The government, on its part, should learn to heed the people’s demands before they are compelled to take to the streets.

Abhinay Jayaswal, via e-mail

Rethink

Fresh nationwide strikes have been announced yet again. This comes at a time when the students of grades 10, 11 and 12 are preparing for their final examinations. I request the strike organisers to rethink their bandh call for the sake of students whose year-long toil will go waste if the exams are not held as scheduled.

Dharma Raj Khatiwada, Kathmandu Central College

Gratuitous

Apropos of Rakesh Wadhwa’s article “Should we ban drinking, smoking and gambling?” (THT, Feb. 19), yes, whatever he does — drink, smoke or gamble — is nobody’s business. But I cannot understand why he is trying to impose his personal choices on others. Surely people would know what is good or bad for them, even without Wadhwa washing his dirty linen in public.

Prakash Moktan, Dhumbarai