Lighting a fuse

The recent announcement of death penalty on Saddam Hussein is a source of great consternation for the world community. This decision might provoke more violence in Iraq and the Middle East. The punishment will not be justified if it results in greater turmoil. A death should not beget more deaths. I am not defending Saddam’s crimes. But death penalty should be avoided. The European Union countries, for instance, have banned it.

Shiva Neupane, via e-mail

Overcharging

Many retailers are charging more than the real prices for a number of products. As per the existing laws, no retailer can sell a product at a higher price than the MRP (Maximum Retail Price) indicated on a product’s cover. But, this rate is often being ignored. MRP means the maximum price inclusive of all kinds and charges that a seller could charge. On many occasions, the proper price at which to sell products comes even below MRP.

The inflated prices relate not only to imported goods but to locally produced items too. The government agencies responsible for enforcing the law should come out of their lethargy

and take action against unscrupulous traders.

Prakash Thapa, Kathmandu

Corruption

Transparency International’s latest report shows that Nepal has made no headway in dealing with corruption. Though political leaders are celebrating the restoration of Loktantra, they have offered nothing except sweet talk by way of dealing with this societal evil.

Obviously, most corrupt officials are occupying top government posts whether they are the political appointees or people in regular government service. Even the media have not

exposed corruption or covered it adequately. The entire government machinery needs to be

overhauled. It is hoped the interim government will take up the issue seriously.

Jhamak Thapa, Finland

Excesses

This refers to the news report “Valley folk complain of Maoist high-handedness,” (THT, Nov. 7). The Maoists are alleged to have coerced a number of Kathmandu residents into providing them with food and shelter prior to the Maoist mass meeting scheduled for November 10. However, the postponement of the meeting has come as a relief. This high-handedness will not help boost the Maoists’ public image. Now that the Maoists and the SPA have signed a historic agreement for peace and democracy, it is hoped that such excesses will stop.

Sunil Sharma, Sanepa

Dilemma

I agree with Manorama Adhikari (Midway, “Women’s dilemma”, THT, Nov 8) that today’s women are in a dilemma whether to give priority to their careers or their family. Opting for the family alone often spells an end to their studies and career prospects.

But this is not the problem only of Nepali women. Even in advanced countries, women struggle to strike a balance between their personal interests and the priorities of their families. Love and empathy are a big part of any woman’s identity. Though they may not like to be overburdened with household chores, taking care of their families comes naturally to most women.

Shristi Mainali, via e-mail