Apropos of the news story “Female journos facing discrimination, says FNJ vice-chair Bindu” (THT, December 11, Page 2), a former female journo with a track record of 13 long years on the job not being granted maternity leave with pay is obviously not a case of discrimination.

It is a case of severe injustice, exploitation, a gross violation of human and women rights and labour laws under international jurisdiction.

You do not need a female president, a female speaker or a female chief justice or a female managing director to receive what is due under the laws of the land. With the help and support from FNJ, the aggrieved journo could and should have knocked on the doors of our courts to receive leave with pay and guarantee of job continuation.

She, with assistance from women rights advocates, could also have sought help from the trade union which can drive employers against the wall if they really want.

It is also pointless for the vice-chair of FNJ to complain and grumble about her organization following highly discriminatory practices in giving membership or training opportunities to female journos.

Manohar Shrestha, Kathmandu

Impossible

Looking at the current political turmoil and chaotic situation, the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government is unlikely to forge consensus to go to the polls “Government to announce local polls soon” (THT, December 9, Page 1).

The government lacks co-ordination and mutual understanding with the main opposition, CPN-UML, which is not a good sign. Just announcing the election dates can never halt political bickering and stalemate unless the sense of confidence is built among the major political parties.

The government does not seem committed to the task of ending the political deadlock either. That’s why we are unlikely to hold three tiers of elections within one year to come “Government not serious about election, says Oli “(THT, December 9, Page 5).

The government’s move of registering the proposal to amend the constitution by splitting the districts of Province 5 has caused public concern. So, it would be wise for the government to withdraw the constitution amendment proposal.

Sanjog Karki, Tansen

Wonderful

Even after facing a disappointing 5-0 whitewash in the 5-ODI series in South Africa back in the Protean land, Australia stamped its authority as the best team for one more time in the short format of cricket.

In the recently concluded 3-ODI series where the team clashed with New Zealand in its own backyard, the home team went on to complete a 3-0 whitewash against the Kiwis.

The host team never let the guest team feel relief in any of the matches. Australia defeated New Zealand in the first ODI by 68 runs, thrashed the same team in the second by 116 runs and crushed it again by 117 runs in the third one.

For the last two matches, David Warner was the hero for his team with Steven Smith playing his main part in the first.

Pratik Shrestha, Baneshwor