Listen to the senior citizens

The Himalayan Times

8 April 2014

Listen to the senior citizens

The government’s apathy towards addressing the demands of senior citizens must have by now drawn the attention of all the people as reported in “Agitating elders remind state of promises not kept” (THT, April 7, Page 2). They have been peacefully staging their protest for the last one year in the premises of Department of Transport. It is heard that five members of senior citizen struggle committee have already passed away during this period of one year.

Included in their demands are free medical treatment, separate wards in the hospitals, monthly allowance of 3000/- and 50 per cent discount in public transport fare. They have also demanded subsidy in essential commodities, 50 per cent discount in land and house taxes, drinking water, electricity and phone bills. It does not seem that unnecessary things have been included in their demands. However, whether it is possible to fulfil their demands depends fully upon the government.

Since the government has not shown any interest or indication whether it is ready to listen to their voices, the agitating struggle committee has decided to stage more stern protest in the days to come. The Apex Court had ordered the government and the concerned authorities to implement the policies adopted for the senior citizens in 2010. But, none of the past government bothered to abide by the Apex Court decision. It is really sad to see the government being irresponsible and insensible. Why does not the government sit with the agitating parties and amicably settle the disputes at the soonest possible before the occurrence of any unwanted incidents?

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj, Kathmandu.