HELLO NEPAL

The Himalayan Times 21 August 2015 Political uncertainty It was indeed very sad to read the news “Protester killed in police firing” (THT, 19 Aug, Page 1). At a time when the major political forces continue to claim that the new constitution will be promulgated soon, four protesters have already lost their lives in police action. Many others were injured during clashes with security forces. The people have been protesting against the decision in other parts of the country as well showing their discontents and asking them to reconsider their unpopular decision. Otherwise, the major political forces should have tried to calm down the agitating groups by listening and addressing their grievances without wasting any time. Constitution is said to be a document of compromises where issues and concerns of majority of people are addressed so that it can be owned by all. If the new constitution fails to incorporate the people’s suggestions, it could be the document of no

The Kathmandu Post 21 August 2015 NOBLE WISH Narayan Manandhar in his article “Abuse of authority” (August 12. Page 6) writes “If an executive can override the decision of the court, where is the rule of law in Nepal?” In the name of the republic, senior political leaders seem to be undermining the universally accepted norms and values of democracy. If such irresponsible acts continue, there are high chances that Nepal will soon lose the essence of democracy in the coming days. Considering the growing institutionalization of corruption taking place in the political, bureaucratic and private organizations, Nepal definitely needs a strong, independent, autonomous, impartial and accountable anti-graft body. However, the practice of political bhagbnada, while appointing members, has completely undermined the formation of independent and autonomous constitutional bodies. If this persists, the future Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) will be rend

The Kathmandu Post 2 August 2015 KILLINGS FIELDS It was indeed an exciting news report to read (“Main priest appeals for slaughter–free rituals” 29 July, Page 1). This new development could perhaps motivate people not to sacrifice animals in other religious places. If the management’s call is followed by the people, then the 2019 Gadhimai Mela can be a bloodshed–free affair. There is strong belief among the devotees that by sacrificing animals, Gadhimai will grant them prosperity and their pending wishes will also come true. Animal Network Nepal (AWNN) deserves appreciation for taking this initiative in collaboration with Humane Society International, India and Gadhimai Trust to end the animal sacrificing rituals that take place in Bara district every five years. Last year, about 5000 buffalos and another 100000 small animals were slaughtered to please Gadhimai Goddess. It is not easy to end this century old tradition that has been deeply ingrained in our culture.

The Himalayan Times (30 July 2015) Superstitious practice SEWAK Nepal, an NGO, deserves appreciation for organizing an awareness programme about the adverse effects of Chhaupadi at Badaipur of Bhimdatta Municipality in Kanchanpur district recently “Awareness drive against Chhaupadi” (THT, 28 July, Page 6). Despite such efforts, this practice continues in various areas of far western development regional districts due to deep rooted tradition and superstition in conservative societies. In fact, women need healthy and nutritious foods and clean environment during this period. However, spending time in chhaupadi, all these facilities are normally barred making the women more vulnerable to ill-health. As reported in the past, some innocent women had even lost their lives while spending three horrible days and nights in chhaupadi during menstruation period. Education and awareness campaign play an important role in completely uprooting this wrong belief from the minds