Give them justice

The Himalayan Times

10 November 2016

Give them justice

The Maoists who fought people’s war against the state had joined mainstream politics a decade ago and is now one of the major political parties who are now leading the coalition government for the last three months. This party had also got the opportunity of running the country at the onset of republic government in Nepal. However, it had completely failed to address its internal party issues related to its combatants who were disqualified for joining the Nepal Army due to being either underage or late entry into PLA. These disqualified PLA fighters were not properly rehabilitated by both the mother party and the state. So, it is not surprising to read the news “Disqualified PLA fighters padlock CPN-MC HQ” (THT, 8 November, page 1) when their mother party is again at the political helm.

They have even threatened the state saying that if their concerns are not properly addressed, country may have to grapple with another bout of insurgency. They have accused the mother party of using them as human shield during people’s war. They were assured of Rs 2 lakh each during their disqualification to facilitate their return to society which never materialized. Claiming that their entire child-hood was spent in the war, they could neither get proper education nor can get any job now. As many as 4000 Maoist ex-combatants were disqualified for integration into Nepali Army. Most of them seem to be wandering around seeking justice from the mother party and the government.

Time has come for the PM Dahal led government to amicably settle this issue rather than denying them justice and fair treatment. If they are denied justice, they may stand against their mother party and the state. The government should not undermine their voices and try to suppress their demands. Both the government and the mother party should honour their grievances and settle the issues on time. Padlocking the head-quarter of CPN-MC by their ex-PLA fighters cannot be seen as a good indication. All their senior leaders, who used to claim to be champions of common people, are well-off now enjoying luxurious lives. Should they ignore the demands of their fighters who had contributed to their luxurious life in one way or the other?

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj