Apropos of the news story “Man accused of wife’s murder acquitted” (THT, June 10, Page 5), it is incredulous that a man held in custody for the last two years for pushing his wife to death from a roof top should win a clean chit by reportedly changing his statement at the court yesterday. The murder accused reportedly confessed two years ago to killing his wife. They were married for 12 years with two daughters, and as she was 10 years older than him and, hence a mismatch, and who would not agree to divorce. It is not clear from the news story what statement won him freedom. The revelation that the man was in love with the older woman whom he married despite their family’s opposition could not have been the ground for his acquittal. So, what new statement helped in convincing the court of the man’s innocence? Did he convince the judge that the age difference was a valid ground to throw his wife off the roof? Or, did the judge think it was okay to kill a mismatch? It is time for human and women rights activists to take up the cudgel. The concerned court should have judged from the statements he quite often changed in the court hearing. Whatever the reason the accused may have been freed, the victim should have justice.

Manohar Shrestha, Kathmandu

Refugees

The harsh reality about the situation that the most of the refugees are in is indeed woefully painful. The news article “Bhutanese refugees congratulate PM Deuba, hope for solution of refugee problem” (THT, June 8, Page 2) stirred my heart as to why refugees are not being treated in a humanely manner. I believe the value of any individual does not depend on what passports they are holding and which land they belong to. We all are equal, No matter whether you are a president of the United States having dozens of bodyguards and having international fame and a sophisticated private jet at the end you will be minced by the wheel of time and death. It is nice and generous of you if you share what you have with others. This is an era to land on the moon and Mars. However, it is sad to see people on earth are deprived of rudimentary needs such as to share the planet and live life in a harmonious manner. I think we can be the example by allowing the genuine refugees in our country to live permanently. I have many Bhutanese friends who are highly educated and compatible with political, religious and views of all sorts. They are really assets for our country. We should not disregard their sentiments though their Government seems to be unhelpful. Our Government can be helpful and this will reflect our immediate humanitarian concern in the international arena. Why on earth are refugees made to think their destinations are only in Australia, Europe and America.

Shiva Neupane, Melbourne