The ongoing Tarai movement is an indication that we are now headed towards another catastrophe. Given the recent political upsurge across the country, followed by bandhs and rallies called by the political factions of the Tarai and Janajatis, it is quite evident that another war may be in the offing. As if the 12-year-old civil strife led by the Maoists was not enough in a poor and backward country like Nepal, now sectarian violence has gripped the entire land. The communal cha-racter of the new war, if not stopped on time, can lead this already shattered nation towards ruins.

For the agitating communities, the time is most opportune to stage their demands since the present political set-up has emerged from the mandate of the historic Jana Andolan II. The major political factions of Tarai, including Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum, Nepal Sadbhavana Party (Anandadevi), Janatantrik Tarai Morcha (Goit), and Janatantrik Tarai Morcha (Jwala Singh) are demanding establishment of a federal set-up and regional autonomy with right to self-determination; proportional representation in the constituent assembly; and representation of Madhesis in all state organs. The Janajatis, on the other hand, are also making similar claims. After Prime Minister Koirala’s January 31 proclamation, a three-member talk team headed by Nepali Congress leader Mahanta Thakur was formed on February 2, which officially invited the three agitating groups for dialogue. But the talks with the agitating parties are yet to begin.

Most dangerously, this time around, the war is prompted not by any kind of ideology or political belief, but years of discrimination faced by the marginalised communities. Their fury was long suppressed and thus their agitation is justifiable to a large extent. How long could the deprived quietly bear the sufferings imposed on them by the ruling elite? For years, the Madhesis have been deprived of equal opportunity in the army and the public service. The Nepal Army overwhelmingly consists of the Chettris, considered to be the warrior class, and the Janajatis, known for their bravery since the British recruited them in its army for the two World Wars. This is an outdated notion. There are no more reasons to believe that a Madhesi, who meets all criteria to enter the army service, is less capable than a Chettri, just on the basis of his caste. Right to equality is universal and thus has to be applied to all citizens irrespective of caste, colour, creed or race.

The issue has to be resolved mutually through dialogue. The experience of countries like India, Afghanistan and Iraq should sever as an eye-opener for our leaders and should induce them to address the concerns of this frustrated lot immediately. Why hesitate to give them their due? In any case, a new Nepal cannot be envisaged without incorporating the aspirations of the Madhesis and the Janajatis. A just and equal society cannot be created by isolating any group. It is precisely for that reason that the formation of a constituent assembly is considered most essential.