Consensus a must

Nepal is in a grave political turmoil. The confrontation between the political forces has brought unprecedented misery to the Nepalis. All the three political forces — the monarch, the parties and the Maoists — claim that they are working for the welfare of the people and for the unity and prosperity of the nation. However, social unity, peace and democracy seem

far-fetched ideals.

Since the parties have reached an understanding with the Maoists, it is time for the king and the parties to hold dialogue so that the deadlock can be broken. They have to patch up their differences for the greater good of the people and the country. Reconciliation is the right path.

N B Katuwal, via e-mail

Clarification

The news “Canadian invite” published in the In Brief section of THT on January 30 indicated a recent change in Canadian Immigration policies and procedures. However, it is not the case and the news was misleading. First of all, Milan Karki, the person quoted in the news, is just an independent consultant and his words cannot be taken as the voice of a representative of the Canadian government. I would like to clarify that the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi, India, handles all immigration matters of the Nepali citizens.

Eileen Stewart, acting First Secretary and Consul,

Canadian Embassy to Nepal, c/o Canadian

Cooperation Office

Destruction

Destruction of public and private property in the name of protest is illogical. By destroying government buildings and vehicles the protesters are only imposing added burden on the public, as this property will be repaired through the taxpayers’ money. They must realise the

repercussions.

I have also heard of pedestrians being hit by the stones thrown by the demonstrators at police personnel. Many innocent people have been beaten up and put behind bars by the policemen. Such incidents are indeed unfortunate.

Lekhnath Poudel, via e-mail

Pupils’ plight

The students and their guardians must be worried about the upcoming SLC exam schedule, as the valley faces a number of bandhs. Thanks to the never-ending Nepal bandhs and now the problem of load-shedding, the studies of those appearing for this crucial exams are being affected. While the protesters happily call for such bandhs without considering the innocent sufferers, the students have to go through mental agony. SLC is an important exam that over-burdens the pupils. Imagine their plight if they have to worry about unnecessary problems.

Biman Shrestha, Kendriya Vidyalaya

Potential

Nepal is sandwiched

between India and China, which are today’s fastest growing economies. So in a way Nepal is lucky to have such a geo-strategic location since it can reap tremendous benefit from this potential, especially economic.

Unfortunately, the Nepali youth just seem to be caught by the negative influence of Western culture. Most of our educated youth lack the motivation to work for the country’s progress. Until we first develop a set of well-trained and dedicated lot of young blood, nothing much can be done.

Ishwor Singh, via e-mail