Referendum on Maoists?

The future of monarchy is in a limbo. The 237-year-old institution maybe on its last leg should the political parties agree to a referendum on the issue. The Maoists accuse the Shah dynasty of being feudalists. But can they guarantee the abolition of feudalism with the end of monarchy?

The monarch poses no clear hurdle to the peace process. So why throw away an institution so closely linked with Nepal’s identity? The Maoists, on the other hand, are solely responsible for the death of around 14,000 Nepalis. Isn’t it ironic that they now advocate peace? Instead of holding a referendum on monarchy, why not hold one on the future of the Maoists? Let’s see if the people approve of their murderous tactics.

Neeraj Roy, People’s Campus

Stop it

Apropos of the report “Civilian dies in Maoist custody, torture alleged” (THT, Sept. 29), the continuation of violent activities by the Maoists cannot be condoned. This will only lead to the derailment of the fragile peace process. The vigilante justice meted out by the Maoists on flimsy pretexts will make it more difficult for the people to embrace them as a mainstream political party.

It is ludicrous to allege that Seth Shah, a healthy 42-year-old died of a heart attack when, in truth, he was systematically tortured before he succumbed to his injuries. What do the Maoists hope to achieve through the activities that clearly undermine their credibility?

Ram P Aryal, New Baneshwor

Negligence

The veil has finally been lifted over the mystery surrounding Bibek Luitel’s abduction from his residence three weeks ago. The incident must be taken seriously and the culprits brought to justice. The child’s parents are suffering, thanks to the negligence of the security personnel.

Cases of abduction and looting are on the rise despite the government’s claim of having beefed up security inside the Valley. The Home Ministry should be vigilant and direct

security agencies to curtail activities like abduction, murder and robbery.

Ambika Pandey, Chitwan

Gruesome

The picture of a goat being slaughtered on THT’s Sunday edition was appalling. The children on the background have been shown giggling. Kids who grow up to be inured to the spilling of blood of the animals in the name of religious sacrifice may well become insensitive to the brutality that man is capable of inflicting on his own kind. Does anyone realise that blood letting is a direct reflection of the horrors perpetuated during the bloody insurgency?

Madhu, Lalitpur

No to drugs

The trend of drug abuse is fast catching up among young people, which will undermine the country’s potential. Both boys and girls — totally ignorant of the side effects — are equally addicted to drugs.

If the government is serious about securing the nation’s future, it should take some immediate steps to curb drug abuse. There is greater need for awareness on substance abuse among the youth and the supply of these dreadful materials should be checked on time.

Ranjeev Shrestha, NCCS College, Paknajol