Unhealthy tendency

This refers to the news report “Diarrhoea claims two, many fall sick” (THT, Oct. 17). Rural people are prone to communicable diseases as they lack sanitation. The medical services are concentrated only at few urban areas.

Doctors prefer to work in the towns because they can earn more there; in the villages people do not have much purchasing power. The politicians seem interested in their narrow political interests only. As a result, the common people suffer from the lack of medical services.

If only the health plans and programmes had been implemented properly in the past, Nepal would now have a much better healthcare system. The government does not seem to have paid enough attention to this vital area, nor has it taken particular interest in ensuring that hospitals, health centres and health-posts have doctors, nurses and para-medical staff.

Bishnu Pandey, Nawalparasi

Worrying

The slow and uncertain pace of the peace talks between the government and the Maoists worries not only the Nepalis but all well-wishers of Nepal around the world. The success of the peace process would be a fitting tribute to those who died fighting against regression during the Jana Andolan II.

Suniel Dhakal, via e-mail

Disgrace

It is shameful that Nepal could get only 28 votes in the election held in the United Nations for a non-permanent seat in the Security Council from the Asia-Pacific region. Both Shital Niwas and the Nepali mission in New York should take responsibility. Now our foreign-policy makers would do well to do some soul-searching.

Political leaders like KP Oli and diplomats like Bhagirath Basnet and Madhuraman Acharya cannot escape the blame. The question arises whether these people have a moral authority to remain in their present posts. A parliamentary committee comprising lawmakers, diplomats and academicians should be formed to look into this loss of face.

Rajan Adhikari, via e-mail

Promote it

Tihar is at hand. While the festival is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety across Nepal, it also gives the tourists a unique glimpse into our rich tradition and culture. Therefore, besides promoting its beautiful mountains and rich flora and fauna, the country needs to promote these festivals and encourage more tourists to visit the country during the festive seasons.

Hemraj Basnet, Chitwan

Adoption

Apropos of the news report “Spanish woman elated after adopting Nepali ‘orphan’ child” (THT, Oct 19), I gather that the Spanish lady, Paco Tomas, is facing many difficulties completing the adoption process of a Nepali girl, Subhechha. All issues concerning children are sensitive. Should foreigners be allowed to adopt Nepali children and take them abroad? If so, this should be governed by strict rules. It’s important to verify the credentials of such foreigners before placing Nepali children in their care. Safeguards are necessary to ensure that adopted children are not abused. If these precautions are taken, there should be no objection to adoption by foreigners.

Sanju Paudel, via e-mail