Respect people’s voice

The Himalayan Times

9 January 2020

Respect people’s voice

Nepal is known for its varied geographical structure and its multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic population living together harmoniously for decades. Since its inception, it never had to face any communal and religious disturbances and violence by its people, who always respected each other’s coexistence and dignity. Respecting each other’s culture and religion, people of different social background and castes used to and hopefully will continue to live happily together.

Due to ups and downs in the political situation, the harmonious environment was however, disturbed, especially during the 10 year-long Maoist movement. Age- old social and cultural bonds among the people were disturbed and had to live with suspicious and fear. Thousands of innocent people lost their lives in the name of political change. However, soon after the Comprehensive Peace Accord was signed between the seven-party alliances and the then Maoist party, people were relieved of the terror. 

Now, the country seems to be gradually moving ahead towards political stability following the promulgation of the new constitution and three tiers of elections. However, the governing political leaders seem to have forgotten their promises made during the elections that have again compelled the people to express their dissatisfaction and grievances out in the streets “Hundreds stage protest against the proposed name for Province 3” (THT, January 7, Page 2). Unless the political parties, whether be they in the government or oppositions, respect and listen to the voice of sovereign people and run the country in line with the constitution, democracy will not flourish, which will ultimately push the country towards disintegration, which is happening in some parts of the globe.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj