GRAB THE OPPORTUNITY

The Kathmandu Post

1 January 2016

GRAB THE OPPORTUNITY

The level of frustration of the general people has gone up very high, with the recent attack by the local people on the Everest Gas Depot at Kirtipur being a case in point. Considering this, it was relaxing to read the news report that the Samyukta Loktantrik Madhesi Morcha (SLMM) is considering to withdraw border protests (“SLMM mulls ending border obstructions” 30 December, Page 1). Time has definitely come for them to look for other alternatives to express their dissatisfactions against the constitution rather than continuing to blockade the trade points with India.

The disgruntled parties have every right to stage protests in a peaceful manner to show their grievances. However, the protests in Madhes have been violent. Over 50 people have lost their lives during the agitation. Both the ruling and agitating parties are to be blamed for these human casualties. The political parties need to have serious and sincere dialogue over the constitutional and political issues rather than showing their political egos and strength. So far, they have not been able to come to consensus on these issues and will not able to do so if they continue to flex their political muscles.

However, the deliberation on the amendment bill in Parliament has given some hope of consensus which is only possible if the ruling, opposition and SLMM put their sincere effort.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj