Kathmandu l 24-30 Spet, 2007 l # 35 l Price Rs. 25 Countdown Countdown begins for GP Koirala's days as PM

ä nf correspondent India, the architect and facilitator of the 12- republican manifesto and goes for a parliamen- point agreement, has already warned Koirala tary resolution in favour of republicanism. "Such The countdown for election to the Constitu- that he would lose his legitimacy as prime a resolution will have no legal validity," said ent Assembly elections has stopped mid-way minister if November polls are not held. To add Dinanath Sharma, a senior Maoist leader, with much more complicated political develop- to that worry, Baburam Bhattarai, Maoists key indicating that the Maoist stance towards Koirala ments overshadowing it. That election may not ideologue, has stated that the election in government in the days to come would be more be held in November is not a mere speculation November will be nothing more than a farce and of an opposition and non-cooperation. "We are now, but something waiting to be formalised by that Maoists would not be a part of it. not obliged to save GP Koirala any more. We the election commission anytime. It may are only committed to the peace process," a however have much serious political fallout The election commission has taken the Maoist leader told newsfront. including the exit of GP Koirala as the prime emerging situation into account. Commissioner minister. Gorakh Bahadur Gurung said that elections may The fear in the Congress is palpable. Koirala not be possible under the existing law and order shared his fear that he might be on his way out Communist Party of Nepal-Maoists (CPN-M) situation. The commission, in the wake last week with some of the senior leaders of the has already begun collecting signatures to have communal flare up in Kapilvastu and other parts Congress party. But party leaders believe that the house session summoned to move a no- of the country, as well as continued assaults by Koirala's shaky position is the outcome of his trust motion against Koirala. Maoist sources the Maoists on commission staff and rival politics of too much of compromise and say although they do not have the requisite two political party activists, has asked the govern- surrender to the Maoists. Khum Bahadur KP Bhattarai's letter third majority to remove the prime minister, ment, to improve the situation on a priority basis. Khadka, a central committee member, warned missile: Two Congress must they believe that Koirala will have lost all moral Koirala that, “once the Congress party goes unite to save country and ground to stick to the chair once Maoists There are speculations that the Maoists will republic, we will be burying ourselves in the democracy and together discard formally declare that they would not participate formally declare their boycott of the November grave dug by the Maoists and Koirala will be republicanism.

in the November election. polls once the Nepali Congress endorses a their first target." ä newsfront 2 24-30 Sept., 2007 News Congress goes republic Risk earning wrath Maoists who quit the give up the gun. They GP Koirala sacrifices inner party democracy for republic government recently in need to give up extortion. a move that appears They need to give up the ä nf correspondent deeply worried over news directed at stalling the militant youth groups that reports which quoted you November 22 polls have sort of extended their GP Koirala seemed all set to go as saying that country's have come under Sahid Mallik power and tried to republic as he bulldozed objections, sovereignty is under focused attack of the intimidate people in the dissents and advice against blindly threat. This coming from international community, with clear countryside." following the Maoist agenda on their a prime minister sends a warning that they may only stand CP Gajurel, head of the Maoist terms. On Sunday, Koirala appealed dangerous message that to lose out from the move. party's international affairs to more than 600 Congress del- the country's sovereignty The US which has still got the dismissed Boucher as a mere egates to discard its history and go and independence Communist Party of Nepal- 'echo' of what the imperialistic for republic for the sake of eight party cannot be protected only Maoists (CPN-M) on its terrorist powers have been doing all along unity, although many including former by a democratic system." list came down with a harsh ever since the 12-point agreement Prime Minister K P Bhattarai asked "As a prime minister, I criticism calling it a move to 'trash' was signed. him not to tread the republic path. think it is your responsibil- the election, and revive the But it was not the US alone Koirala presented his agenda as ity to apprise the nation decade-long civil war. which is critical and apprehensive the last wish of his political life saying about such a threat. It will "Trying to trash this election is of the Maoist move. he is not going to contest election to be a gross lapse on our trying to trash the whole process. Maoists’ insistence that the constituent assembly; and that part not to formulate Declaring yourselves an opponent monarchy be abolished right now if there was no other way than going ways to face this to the democratic voting process, elections are to be held in republic if elections are to be held in challenge together. we can't abide by that. So I hope November, have not found favour November. National reconciliation they won't go that far," Richard from any country so far. Koirala refused to receive the call At least 13 central committee envisages bringing democratic and Boucher, top US State Depart- European Union ambassadors from KP Bhattarai who later shot him members told Koirala that not only nationalist forces together and ment said in Washington on issued a statement, endorsing a letter on Saturday against going was he dumping a history of wisdom unification of the two Nepali Congress Thursday. sentiments expressed by the republic. “The republican slogan and and glory that Nepali Congress will be the first right step in that Boucher said the US govern- visiting UK Minister Sahid Mallik, its endorsement would be totally represented, but he also was being direction." ment would continue to treat the which said not having elections on against the policy and tradition of the dictated by Maoists as well as "The threat you see to the Maoists as extremist outcasts until time with full support of all parties Congress," Bhattarai said. But Koirala external forces. "It will ultimately lead sovereignty of the nation cannot be the movement becomes a normal will be a 'betrayal' of the people's made no reference to the letter that to Nepal's disintegration," dissenting mitigated without democratic forces political party. So far the Maoists aspirations and damage the he had received. Instead, he pleaded central committee members warned. coming together. Po-republic slogan have not threatened to renounce credibility of the peace process in before central committee members of Koirala deleted references of BP’s and its endorsement are against the the ceasefire that ended their their eyes and in the eyes of the the Congress, led by party General recnciliation policy, and Bhattarai’s Congress policy and tradition. I firmly decade-long insurgency, and their international community. Indian Secretary KB Gurung, not to record recent reiteration in General believe that Congress should avoid soldiers remain confined to UN- official viewpoint appears no dissent and press for voting when the secretary k b Gurung’s resoution. going that way," said the 84 year old monitored camps. different from what the US and EU resolution for a republic Congress is Bhattarai endorsed those views Bhattarai, the only surviving founder Boucher added, "They need to have stood by. ä moved. separately through the letter: "I am member of the Congress. ä News 24-30 Sept., 2007 3

Newsbrief More than 60 feared dead India's stick and carrot ä Deepak Gyawali in India seems to be dangling carrots as well as sticks in front of the Kapilvastu Maoists. Foreign Secretary Shiv Shankar Menon is believed to have invited Maoist leaders to visit India at their convenience and this was a As mayhem ruled and a tempting carrot for the Maoists. The casual offer was made when he demoralised local administration that had a meeting with Prachanda and Baburam Bhattarai during his recent lacked Kathmandu's firm directive visit to the capital. failed to act promptly, Kapilvastu's But Menon did not hesitate to display the stick as well. He made it communal frenzy seems to have clear that India would have to go with the rest of the world if the Maoists taken a toll of at least 60 human lives, pulled out of the peace process, obstructed or boycotted polls and besides devastation of property in abandoned the 8-party unity - an umbrella concept that India mooted to billions. bring Nepal's seven pro-democracy parties and the Maoists together. The chain of events triggered by India is said to be cautiously observing the Maoists’ moves in the wake the assassination of Mohit Khan, a of their withdrawal from the government. prominent political and social figure in the area on September 16 outside his residence in Chandrauta village, have Election court left many still missing. "We do not yet know how many people are missing, crowd and got away only after was killed, about 300 people from Although election in November looks still very uncertain, the govern- but any conservative estimate shows promising that he will take action Indian side came to Nepal and ment has set up an election court consisting of three judges of the more than 50 people have lost their against the district chief of the police attacked the residents of Krishna Supreme Court to summarily address the election related disputes. lives," a senior official in the home as well as the civil administration, but Nagar area,” said the official. The court is headed by Justice Anup Sharma with Balram K C and ministry in Kathmandu told newsfront. the anger against the 8-party With no administrative resistance, Tap Bahadur Magar. All election related disputes will be dealt by the Mutilated parts of human bodies have government in Kathmandu among the crowds went on rampage, killing bench. One of the last businesses transacted in the House related to the been recovered in addition to 32 the local people is palpable. and uprooting the people in and adoption of the bill enabling government to form the election court. bodies accounted for. The government is silent on the around Chandrauta. Police sources The area continued to be under identities of those who killed Mohit confirmed that so far only 29 deaths tension which was evident from the Khan. Although he had been target have been confirmed, but the number PM and courtesy fact that criminals took away sacks of twice by the Maoists for having of missing is far more. "As we will rice from a rice mill at Chandrauta, headed the anti-Maoist vigilante venture into some villages now, we G P Koirala is criticised by many for different reasons. But lack of close to the armed police force camp, group during the royal regime, will be able to give the exact number courtesy is not one of them. But the experience of his childhood friend where Home Minister K P Sitaula was Maoists this time have disowned their in about a week's time," Shashi Hajur and the only surviving member of the Nepali Congress, KP Bhattarai on Saturday. Sitaula faced the angry hand in the murder. "Soon after he Silwal, Police Superintendent said. ä was different this time. Koirala refused to come on the line when Bhattarai made a call to Baluwatar to inform him that he is going to send him a letter on country's crucial political situation. The answer from the switch-board was, "I tried, and nobody picks up the phone." Koirala also did not bother to call back the octogenarian Gandhian leader who is known as Kishunji. Bhattarai shared Mass Yoga class this with some of those from Congress party who had called on him. Fuel for election Govt failed to cancel the event as Swami Ramdev refused to budge As a follow-up to the recent visit by India's Foreign Secretary Shiv Shankar Menon, Nepal's petrol pumps which had dried up over a period of time will have a normal supply at least for some weeks to come. To keep his promise, Indian Oil Corporation resumed supply, at a slightly enhanced level, to meet the fuel starvation that has adversely affected the normal life, movement and activities in Nepal. On Friday, IOV dispatched 2,800 KL petrol which was 500 KL more than normal supply even though the Nepal Oil Corporation has not cleared the dues running over 6 billion rupees. An Indian embassy source said that as a good-will gesture, and to facilitate normal activities, fuel supply will continue at least till the November elections are over. World free from hunger It was a lobbying for a cause. Malvika Subba, youth spokesperson for hunger free campaign, impressed upon Nepal's permanent representative to the United Nations, Madhu Raman Acharya, to voice Nepal's support for the hunger free world campaign. Subba, a former Miss Nepal is the Action Aid (Nepal) ambassador in the campaign. She demanded that Nepal endorse the resolution on the right to food at the meeting of the UN member states slated to begin on 25th September at New York.

Social activists, youth spokespersons and civil society leaders from Pix by Bhashwor Ojha different countries are participating in various campaign actions in and The six-day Yoga (Yog) class about the cancellation only after they conduct of the classes, possibly around UN General Assembly to put pressure on the member state conducted by Swami Ramdev began reached the venue. making him feel Nepal's ultra-left participants in order to influence a resolution for poor and excluded on Sunday, one day behind The government decision to cancel were much more positively inclined people who are suffering from hunger and malnutrition. 840 million schedule, in Tundikhel after the the camp altogether followed towards ancient Yoga and Ayurveda people (17% of the global population) are hungry in this world of plenty, internationally acclaimed Yoga suggestions from the home minister science compared to Indian Marxists. and this number is increasing. master refused to budge an inch in that his presence in Nepal would help Brinda Karat, a CPI-M politburo the face of government warning that the fanatic Hindus and the king. The member had falsely accused the he faced a security risk. prime minister seems to have promptly Swami of using human and animal Blood donation in Bluebird "I cannot let down thousands of endorsed the suggestion, only to take ingredients in his medicines bringing Besides striving towards providing best services in their regular people who have already arrived it back in the face of stiff protests from the swami into a controversy. course of business, Bluebird has now undertaken activities for humani- here for Yoga class," he told Koirala, thousands who had assembled in the Maoist leaders KB Mahara and tarian services. To celebrate the 1st anniversary of Bluebird mall and adding, "I fear nobody." The capital and the defiance by the Swami. Prabhakar Sharma were among 45th anniversary of Red Cross, Bluebird organised a blood donation government, especially the home "I cannot let my disciples down,” he those who attended the inaugural program on 17th September 2007. In total 112 participants donated ministry, ultimately relented and told Koirala on Saturday morning. session in Tundikhel in the morning. blood out of which approximately 71 were males & 41 females. refrained from canceling the Yoga The Swami who is in Nepal for the The Swami in company of his This event was followed by distribution of certificates by the chief training camp for which more than first time also got into a series of colleague, Acharya Balkrishna, has guest Dr. Manita Rajkarnikar, Director of Central Blood Bank. Bluebird 30,000 people had queued up in the negotiations on Saturday afternoon also brought a strong contingent of Mall is Nepal's first only genuine brand concept shopping mall with over capital. As a result, classes began and finally succeeded in securing Ayurveda doctors (Baidya) from the 50 brands and outlets all under one roof. only on Sunday. On Saturday support of all major political parties Patanjali Yogpeeth based in morning, many people got to know including the Maoists in successful Haridwar. ä 4 17-23 Sept, 2007 Editorial

Editor & Publisher : Yubaraj Ghimire Executive Editor : Sushma Amatya News Coordinator : Manoj Dahal Design: Sunil Khadgi, Kishor Raj Panta & Ramkrishna Rana Address : PO Box: 8830, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel : 4443888, Fax : 4421147 (Edt.), 4411912 (Mkt.) Email: [email protected], [email protected] (Mkt.) Printed by: Express Color Press, Buddhanagar, Tel.: 4781810, Distribution: Kasthamandap, Tel.: 2010821 Point to Ponder Happiness is when, what you think, what you say and what you do, are in harmony... - Mahatma Gandhi Maoists’ exit Maoists quitting the GP Koirala led government did not happen all of a sudden. There is a method to everything that Maoists have been doing. They have always been seeking an easy way to win. Like everyone’s politics here, honesty, fairness and scruples do not seem to matter much for them as well. As a result, people no longer see them different from the existing political parties. And Letters Maoists knew it well. Therefore, it appears safe to assume that Maoists’ withdrawal from the government is their first move towards running away EthnicityEthnicityEthnicity, no weapon Endangered Nepal from the election, which will take away the legitimacy of the R D Limbu’s ‘Grave ethnic KP Bhattarai’s appeal for present government as well as of the entire political process. In issues’ makes an interesting reconciliation has no doubt been their calculation, Koirala and the rest in the coalition government reading. It not only goes into the dumped by many in the country as have to accept their dictates if they want to be seen and genesis of the problem in a wider a regressive view-point not recognised as legitimately ruling this country by the world outside. context, it also puts forward acceptable by 21st century Nepal. The threat seems to be working out. Koirala and other coalition effective and constructive ways to But many countries have invited partners have moved a step closer towards pledging that constituent approach them. peril by ignoring cultural, historical assembly will declare Nepal a republic. Koirala, as his past and Ethnicity should not be used by and assimilatory aspects of their present have shown, will go to any length to save his chair. And politicians and those demanding politics. Maoists are exploiting that weakness to the hilt to extract what suits their share in power structure as Return of BP Koirala and them. That is why; he chose not to sincerely implement the a weapon to destruct and Ganeshman Singh from India in provisions of the comprehensive peace accord like: forming a disintegrate the society. It should December 1976 with the call for commission for the disappeared, rehabilitating those displaced by be used for building an egalitarian national reconciliation which meant the conflict, forming Truth and Reconciliation Commission and society where everyone, coming together of pro-democracy making sincere efforts to hold election in November. irrespective of caste, creed, forces and the king, purely within Now there are clear indications that election in November is not ethnicity, region, faith and religion, the constitution framework, is no at all possible, and Koirala might try to buy Maoists’ return to the should feel equally that they less relevant today. government to legitimise further postponement of the election. belong to this country. Their return came in the Maoists’ withdrawal from the government is also an outcome of Limbu has also rightly warned background of Sikkim’s merger in the intense differences among its top leaders with an emerging the rulers of the day that denial of India. The two pro-democracy axis looking for replacement of Prachanda as the leader. At the such an opportunity would push leaders were quick to realise that same time, they have also initiated to oust Koirala as the prime the country into a dangerous Sikkim’s transition to democracy minister. situation. had come at the cost of their These developments might lead to a situation where the future Nakul BistaBistaNakul nation, nationhood, nationalism and independence. It was a of the ongoing peace process looks bleak. Visible lack of will on the Sanepa, Lalitpur conclusion they drew from this that a constitutional monarchy part of the government to implement the provisions of the CPA and pro-democracy forces together alone would be able to only reflects lack of seriousness. Koirala’s leadership has not only Nepal for Nepalis save the country. failed, he has also proved to be utterly insensitive to the loss of I read with interest the piece, ‘Captured state.’ The Obviously, King Gyanendra did not act in the manner that lives and to the flare-up of communal situation in parts of the interesting fact about Maoists is that they have not yet learned represented the spirit of the two leaders. But G P Koirala country. the democratic system of governing. today is moving towards a dangerous direction. He is keen to While Koirala’s leadership should not be seen as something United Nations is just a guardian of the system that is in retain absolute power which he has acquired. He is worse without an alternative, Maoists need to review their withdrawal place and it is unlikely to place the system in order that is than an absolute king at this stage. from the government. Quitting government, disrupting election will in mess. After all, Nepal is for Nepalis to rule and manage. It is time Koirala, all political party leaders including Maoists lead to disruption of the peace process. That will be the end of The gang of eight must learn to make it an inclusive realise that any attempt to capture power by any section at their journey towards a credible nationalist democratic party. A society especially so at the beginning of the new millen- the cost of national reconciliation will be disastrous for the republic Nepal as a gift from Koirala will have no lasting political nium. country’s future, independence, nationalism, democracy and meaning in their favour. It can only invite people’s wrath and dislike Chandra Sing Gurung, its very existence. for them. ä RSIS, Nanyang University, Singapore Suman Basnet Pulchowk, Lalitpur

Spiritual Corner Cosmic unity simplicity to be the key to His work was dated back to 4th Being and non-being create each truth and freedom. He to 2nd century B.C. Its parables otherotherother... Lao Tzu is known for his writing of the Tao- encouraged his followers to and verse advocate passive and DifDifDifficult and easy support each other... Te Ching (Tao-meaning the way of all life, Te- observe, seek to under- intuitive behavior in natural Long and short define each other... meaning the right use of life by men, and stand the laws of nature; to harmony with the Tao. This is a High and low depend on each other... Ching-meaning text or classic). Lao Tzu was develop intuition and build cosmic unity underlying all Before and after follow each other... not his real name, it meant old master. up personal power; to use phenomena. This is a stage of Therefore the master He attracted many followers, but refused to that power to lead life with creative possibility symbolised by acts without doing anything set his ideas down in writing. He believed that love and without force. the child or an uncarved block. and teaches without saying anything. written words might solidify into formal dogma. People say that he was a Things arise and she lets them come; He wanted his philosophy to remain a natural contemporary of Confucius TTTao TTao e Ching VVe erse 22erse things disappear and she lets them way to live life with goodness, serenity and and served as curator of the When people see some go.go.go. respect. He believed a person’s conduct dynastic archives until things as beautiful, She has but doesn't possess, should be governed by instinct and con- retiring to the mythical K’un-lun Mountains. He other things become ugly... acts but doesn't expect. science. transmitted his teachings to a border guard When people see some things as When her work is done, she forgets it. He believed that human life is constantly who compiled the Lao-Tzu. also titled Tao-te good,good,good, That is why it lasts forever... influenced by outside forces. He believed Ching. other things become bad. Translated by Stephen Mitchell (1988) Debating Development 24-30 Sept, 2007 5

From the failure on the WHYis Nepal part of the intelligence department to police and armed police force, it is a total failure of the burning? home ministry.

Having an irresponsible government communal tremor. overall law and order situation, his people of other faiths as well, in times at times is better than not having any routine rhetoric that election will be of communal flare up. government at all. That is what one Khan had been targeted twice in held at any cost in November, and can gather from the tragic saga of the past by the Maoists, but he was Sitaula's palace conspiracy theory That happens when people own riots and mayhem at Butwal, not lucky the third time. But there was without a credible probe all look like secularism entwined with humanitar- Kapilvastu and the vast stretch of land no word from the government as to parts of a grand design in which key ian values. We can still draw the in the west. Mohit Khan, a prominent who was his assailant. Instead, Home political actors are moving towards lesson now at a time when there is so citizen known for his good as well as Minister KP Sitaula whose inefficiency institutionalising governance sans much hurry to declare Nepal a bad qualities was felled with bullets and incompetence is well known was accountability. republic state. Any attempt by the outside his residence a week ago. quick to share his 'conspiracy theory' political parties to leave the people For many, he had been a fighter and with Prime Minister G P Koirala and But the cost of Butwal flare up is and the future constituent assembly savior. Those who felt the loss of a other cabinet colleagues saying it was yet to be assessed. It has come with a fait accompli on the issue of patron were naturally aggrieved. the outcome of a conspiracy hatched months after Nepal has been republic versus ceremonial monarchy äää Yubaraj Ghimire by the palace. declared a 'secular state' where each will make 'republicanism' as vulner- and every ethnic, religious as well as able as 'secularism' that the recent From the failure on the part of the minority groups should have felt much carnage demonstrated. It is also a lesson for this government and intelligence department to police and more secured, and much closer to key political actors, mainly the eight parties armed police force, it is a total failure the state protection than during the Moreover, declaring Nepal a of the home ministry. It failed to sense time when it was a Hindu state. republic now will leave enough scope to realise that mere insertion of 'secular- that such a tension was in the offing. to doubt that it was basically the ism' in the constitution does not make the It failed to respond quickly when Identifying Khan’s killer and an home minister trying to create tensions erupted in the form of a assurance of prompt action could circumstances and use those excuses country and the society less vulnerable to communal and ethnic divide. have saved the situation from taking to impose his and Maoists’ agenda of criminals and religious fundamentalists. Thoroughly demoralised and the turn it took. But the aftermath of republicanism. He should not be politicised police certainly cannot act, the murder and government's all allowed to take the political mileage and all thanks to Sitaula. round failure have triggered a from what looks like his deliberate But the events and protests that communal and ethnic divide, leaving failure in Butwal. followed Mohit Khan's murder have More than 32 bodies have already deep scars. raised serious questions as it had all been recovered, and hundreds are If there is one person who should the signs of a crime with a larger still missing. Vulnerable populace has It is also a lesson for this govern- take all the moral and administrative design. There are many questions started demanding that Nepal army ment and key political actors, mainly responsibility for the loss of lives and that need to be answered. Mohit be deployed to protect them since the the eight parties to realise that mere property in the country now, it is only Khan was a Muslim by faith. Why police and the APF have failed to do insertion of 'secularism' in the Sitaula. GP Koirala will only be were the mosques made the first it. Sitaula's criminal insensitivity makes constitution does not make the country endorsing Sitaula's incompetence, target by those who came out on him nothing more or less than a and the society less vulnerable to lapses, crime and conspiracy by not streets to protest against his murder? traitor. He has all along refused to criminals and religious fundamentalists. making him accountable, and letting The events took a communal and own responsibility for any drift in the If people had been given a chance to the country burn. Nepalis will not be ethnic turn with fire of revenge and law and order situation as the home own the process of Nepal's transition able to accept this as a model of animosity raging far and wide. minister of the country. from a Hindu to a secular state, they governance in ‘new’ Nepal. If Koirala Butwal, Kapilvastu, Nepalgunj, Dang would have realised how crucial a role does not realise this, that will be the and Pyuthan all felt the shocks of the G P Koirala's apathy towards the they would need to play to protect the beginning of the fall of Koirala. ä 6 24-30 Sept, 2007 Debating Development NEPAL’S FUTURE The leaders of Nepal’s political parties know that the power of holding office comes with responsibilities, and the spotlight is on them.

äää Patrick Leahy There are times in virtually every institutions, including the army. have done little to prepare for the their positions on some issues, but country’s history when years of under Elections for a Constituent Assembly elections. At times, party members not about their right to serve in development and conflict give rise to to be held in June were postponed, have seemed more interested in government and to advocate for opportunities to change course. Such but they have been rescheduled for furthering their own personal those positions. times are rare, and such opportuni- November 22. The Assembly is to ambitions and in derailing the ties are too often missed. draft a new constitution. electoral process altogether. The I know the Maoists are looking to leading party of the left, the UML, has the United States to lift our restric- I think of our Civil War, which Also during this period, Nepal’s done more to prepare. But all parties tions on their party and its leaders, caused so much loss of life and ethnic minorities, women and other will need to promptly step up their and to remove them from our list of devastation. It preserved the Union groups who have long been election activities if voters are to have terrorist organizations. In order for and it led to the emancipation of persecuted and denied a voice have the informed choice they deserve. that to happen, the Maoists need to some three million African slaves. demanded equal rights and repre- take unequivocal, positive steps. The Nothing can diminish those achieve- sentation. This poses both chal- On the positive side, the Election cases of the murdered Nepali security ments or the sacrifice of those who lenges and opportunities for the Commission deserves credit for a guards need to be satisfactorily gave their lives. But instead of government. voter registration process that has resolved. The party’s resumption of providing the former slaves with the reached Nepal’s remotest villages. land seizures and the reopening of equal rights to which they were The international community, There is no doubt that the people are so-called “people’s courts,” are steps entitled, until passage of the Civil including the United States, has eager to go to the polls, just as they in the wrong direction. Rights Act a century later African supported the peace process directly were determined to put an end to the Americans suffered from racially and through our financial contribu- King’s abuse of power. To the other political parties in discriminatory laws that kept them in tions to the United Nations which has government I would say that it is an inferior status. The country performed key monitoring functions. Over the past three years, I have time to make good on your commit- remained bitterly divided because of Recently, the U.S. provided $3 million observed the fortitude of the Nepali ments. Not only the Maoists, but it. to purchase the ballots for the people’s desire for peace, for justice, traditionally marginalized groups as elections. and for a meaningful voice in well, are increasingly skeptical that Nepal today faces its own historic government. Their desire is shared the government is serious about choice. Much has transpired since April and admired by the American people. delivering on its key commitments to 2006, when I last spoke in this the peace process, whether For more than a decade, Nepal chamber about political developments To the Maoists I would say that it downsizing and reforming the army, has been plagued by an internal in Nepal. Today, just 65 days before was you who called for a Constituent supporting land reform, or creating armed conflict in which savage Nepal’s elections, I would like to Assembly. Saying you are committed jobs and opportunities for minority brutality was inflicted on impoverished address my brief remarks to the to the democratic process at the groups that have long been civilians by Maoist insurgents and the people of Nepal and to Nepal’s same time that you withdraw from the disadvantaged and ignored. Those Royal Nepal Army. Over 13,000 political parties, including the Maoists. government, make new demands groups should pursue their griev- people died, mostly noncombatants, that contradict previous commitments, ances through a vigorous election and virtually no one has been held On November 22, the people of support disruptive economic strikes, campaign, not through obstruction of accountable for those crimes. Nepal will be presented with one of and threaten to return to confronta- the democratic process, the failure two options. They will either have an tion, is not the way to earn the of the parties to govern and match For more than two centuries, historic opportunity to create a people’s trust and support that are rhetoric with action threatens the Nepal has been a monarchy whose legitimate, representative government necessary to become an effective elections, as does the Maoists’ saber kings, with rare exception, denied the which can only be achieved through a force for change. Nor is it the way to rattling. Nepal’s rights and ignored the needs of their popular vote, or they will be denied earn the trust of the United States. people who remain among the that opportunity. The leaders of Nepal’s political previous world’s poorest. In February 2005, I have campaigned for elective parties know that the power of experiment King Gyanendra, a narcissistic, If the elections are held, Nepal will office five times over more than 30 holding office comes with responsibili- arrogant autocrat, seized absolute continue on a path that can bring its years, and I know something about ties, and the spotlight is on them. with multi- power, jailed his opponents and governmental institutions and its earning the people’s trust and Lasting legitimacy comes not only party muzzled the press, only to relent in society into the modern age, and support. It does not come from through the ballot box but in the day- democracy April 2006 in the face of mounting begin to finally address the poverty dogmatic speeches or lofty party to-day ability to honor commitments international pressure and the and injustices that gave rise to the platforms or manifestos. It does not and improve the lives of all citizens. during the protests of thousands of courageous conflict. If they are denied, the Nepali come from saying one thing and This is their chance to put the Nepali 1990s had been Nepali citizens. people will likely see their country then doing the opposite. It certainly people and their country first, by become more fragmented and does not come through the use of showing that they believe in effective, disappointing. Nepal’s previous experiment with ungovernable, and more vulnerable violence, threats and extortion. It accountable government. If they do The leaders of multi-party democracy during the to external influences over which they comes by showing that you deserve not, the United States, and I suspect the country’s 1990s had been disappointing. The have little control. the people’s trust and support. many other countries, will no longer leaders of the country’s political There is no better way to begin that afford them the legitimacy they will political parties distinguished themselves by Recent developments have been process than to seize this opportu- need for our continued support. parties distin- amassing personal fortunes and both encouraging and troubling. nity and show the people that you doing little for the people. Perhaps that is to be expected in a can make the government work for Nepal’s path to the future may be guished them- country of multiple ethnic groups them. decided in the waning months of this selves by But since the restoration of civilian speaking some 93 languages that is year. Although a small country amassing government in April last year there struggling to transform itself. History is replete with examples of wedged between two emerging has been impressive progress. A armed groups that achieved popular giants, Nepal is unique in more ways, personal Comprehensive Peace Agreement The bombings in Kathmandu three legitimacy through the democratic more beautiful ways, than most other fortunes and was signed, Maoist combatants have weeks ago, other violent acts process. If the Maoists win seats countries its size. Today, the United gone into cantonments, the army has perpetrated by newly formed armed through free and fair elections, States – Congress and the Executive doing little for been confined to barracks, and the groups in the Terai and members of uphold the commitments they have – are united in our desire to help the people. Maoists, until today, were part of the the Maoist young wing, the Young made in the Comprehensive Peace Nepal become a democracy whose interim government. The King has Communist League, and the Maoists Agreement and other agreements, government is representative of been stripped of all political power, decision to withdraw from the and devote themselves to working for Nepal’s remarkably diverse popula- although the ultimate fate of the government, illustrate the fragility of change peacefully, I am confident the tion, and where the fundamental monarchy has yet to be decided. the process. United States will treat them as rights of all people are respected. rightful members of the elected The word “Royal” has been Moreover, the leaders of the Constituent Assembly or of the (Sen Leahy's speech in the senat eliminated from government Congress parties and the Maoists government. We may disagree with on September 18, 2007.) Interview 24-30 Sept, 2007 7

Isabella Tree ja;slfjas;dfj l;jflas;dfj al;sdjf

Celebrating KUMARI Kumari is a reminder of divinity in all of us.

IIIsabella TTsabella reereeree, 43, an author and Hundreds of people were fed with the freelance travel journalist is writing a Prasad. It was a great event. book on Kumari, the living child goddess in Kathmandu. After a How did you get interested in sudden realisation that this year was Kumari?Kumari?Kumari? the 250th year of the foundation of the I came here when I was 18 with famous Kumari Chen (house), she friends; and we ended up staying at decided it would be a good occasion Freak Street and one of the things for her to give back something to the we did see was an extraordinary child Kumari. Amidst a day long celebration just across the square. Nobody really recently, the glittering bronze Patah seemed to know much about her, the that she offered was hung down from guide books did not say much but she the Kumari Chen. She shared this was definitely intriguing. About 14 experience with Sushma Amatya. years later, a friend of mine came here to live and invited me and my How did this exciting event husband for a trek. I asked her if the come about? living goddess still existed. We then I wish to say destiny had it that my went to see her, from the courtyard. offering was to be accepted. If the My friend’s Nepali teacher said I could and female energy of goddess being Was it difficult for your Kathmandu Kumari did not want it, it would not have interview an ex Kumari and I worshipped very interesting. As offering to be accepted? happened. I have been researching interviewed Rasmila who was then westerners we are very much I am very well aware that there are Kumari became Kumari tradition for the last five years only about 15. I wrote an article about dominated by patriarchal religion and controversies about a foreigner being the state and I have been thinking for a long time it but I knew that I did not really know it has completely subdued the ancient involved. If you do something for the Kumari that writers and journalists come to a anything about the tradition. Slowly mother goddess cult. It is wonderful right reason, hopefully it will be place, do a lot of research and they the idea began to interest me. There to find some place where women and accepted. There was a debate whether and became take their material and go away without is not much that is written about female children are worshipped; and I should be allowed to offer the Patah important on a really giving anything back. For a long Kumari and there are a lot of myths omnipotent energy is considered or not. One of the committee members, time I had been wondering as to how to that still persist even after the female. As a foreigner I cannot meet Badri Lal Shrestha, surveyed 240 national level. give back that would mean something publication of Rasmila Shakya’s her. I can only have her Darshan experts on Kumari tradition and religion That is why she and be lasting. autobiography. from the courtyard. Yes, it is and the consensus was that it would be A wonderful man, Kashi Nath Tamot challenging to write when you cannot fine for my offering to be accepted. The is celebrated who teaches Newar studies has been What are the myths? meet her or visit her palace. Patah looks full of life, and shows that more. And the helping me with research for a few The myths say ex Kumaris cannot To kneel to a young girl’s feet is so something is happening there. years; and he established that the marry because their husbands die a fascinating; it is a reminder of divinity in purity, the building had been founded in 1757. horrible death or they end up all of us. Kumari is worshipped on so Do you consider yourself an condition in Suddenly I realised that now in 2007, it becoming prostitutes. It is all rubbish many different levels. She is different expert on Kumari now? would be the 250th year and might be but it is very difficult to dispel the goddess to different people. It is Not at all. I know that I have which she is the right occasion to contribute popular myths that are perpetuated understood at very simple or highly touched only the tip of the iceberg. I kept is something to the Kumari house. so often by papers in Nepal as well as esoteric levels. It depends on who you will never fully understand it. I I thought if the authorities con- by foreign women’s magazines. are as to what you see in her. understand it enough to say it is an still strictly nected to the Kumari house were I interviewed four or five Kumaris, extraordinary thing and if I can get maintained. interested in marking this event, I most of them are married. Some, who What is special about just a little bit of that magic across, it could dedicate a bronze Patah that I are not, are seen as failures but why Kathmandu Kumari? will be great. It is a huge sophisticated had noticed on Akash Bhairav temple. should they be seen as such? What Kathmandu Kumari became the subject and I am completely awed; It was fantastic when they said yes. I matters is how happy they are. I think state Kumari and became important and I do not want to know any cannot take any credit for everything it is a traumatic period when they leave on a national level. That is why she is secrets that I am not supposed to Isabella Tree that they have been doing. There has the house after attaining puberty and celebrated more. And the purity, the know. It is enough that they are there. been tremendous collaborative work there may not be much preparation for condition in which she is kept is still and I just had the idea to cast the that. I think now the people concerned strictly maintained. Tradition usually Do you see the tradition seed onto the water and wonderful are beginning to appreciate that there gets weaker but here it is maintained. disappearing? things started happening. should be a careful transition from I think the Kumari is an extraordinary No. The strength and knowledge of A committee was formed with being a god to an ordinary human. experience. When I see tourists just the tradition is very much there. about 40 members – local community It is not an easy transition and walk past the building, I want to tell Recently, there was a court case workers, social workers, businessmen takes a year or two for the ex- them: look, open your eyes and see! brought against Kumari and the who all contributed acknowledging Kumaris to adjust but the strong point I come back once or twice a year government very wisely consulted many the tradition of Kumari tradition. A is that they have a close knit family for about two or three weeks at a scholars and Newar specialists about working committee with eight people who treat them with love and respect. time to follow up on my research. My what Kumari means and sought their did all the planning of the celebration. Almost every Kumari I spoke to said it two children who are coming here for recommendations. And the sugges- The unveiling of the Patah was was an extraordinary experience and the first time will be experiencing the tions were to protect the tradition by done on 15 Sep with a big Pooja, a great honour to be of service. Indra Jatra this year! I am absolutely way of education and preparation officiated by Manjushree Bajracharya, Kumaris these days receive education thrilled. The most exciting thing about when she comes out. Finally, I wish the Bajracharya priest and the Pancha inside the Kumari house so that they the celebration coming up is the to add that all the enthusiasm and Buddha. There was a separate can keep up with their peers later. passion being generated by the local energy for the 250th year commemo- ceremony with over 300 little Kumaris community. The whole building will be ration and the forthcoming festival carrying Poojas. The Patah was then What is the most fascinating decorated by puffed rice – Lawa, and has really come from caretaker family put on the roof and let down and thing about this tradition? there will be feasts and other events and the committee. All the credit goes Yomaris were thrown on the roof. I find the whole notion of Shakti following it. to them. ä 8 24-30 Sept, 2007 Opinion Social dialogue needed Politicians want to cash in by playing the communal card.

Everything that happens in Terai have suddenly lost the sense of exploited the situation to their Kathmandu even when the likes of today is seen through the communal belonging in Terai. They feel that they advantage. Kapilavastu riot take place. lens. The serial bomb blast in are indeed treated like outsiders. This Kathmandu, which took innocent thinking is based on the utterances of Regrettably, the administration, In a situation as hopeless as this, lives, was seen as the handiwork of some vested interests armed instead of admitting its failure to reach where nothing much could be Madhesi people just because some insurgents, as well as some politicians out to the people tried to cover up its expected from the state and little known Terai groups claimed who want to cash in by playing the shortcomings by wrongly projecting that politicians, the only remedy would be: responsibility. None really applied communal card. äää Chandrakishore Jha the Madhesis as a community is not to bridge this gap is through a civil their minds to figure out whether prepared to be administered by Pahadi society social dialogue which should these outfits are actually capable of There are three main reasons for officers. When the actual reasons of deliberate and find an honorable carrying out such well planned this situation. First of all, the inner people’s resentments were corruption mechanism to merge Madhesis into destructive acts. current of the Jana Andalan II was and insensitivity, the state machinery mainstream Nepal; prevent further not properly understood by the gave it a communal connotation. polarisation on communal lines; In Kapilavastu, when the chairman government. The people’s movement decide whether or not international of Madhesi Loktantrik Morcha, Mohit of April 2006 underscored the need The armed insurgents, who bodies like UN should be seeking Khan was killed by unknown for recognising the importance of multiplied themselves into 22 groups solutions to Madhesi problem; and assailants, the crime was seen as ending Kathmandu based ruling First of all, the with an attitude of revenge, are one the kind of cooperation to be sought committed by Pahadis for the simple concept. inner current of of the elements that took advantage from neighboring Indian states for reason that those attackers report- of this sorry state of affairs. For them, betterment of Terai people. edly looked like Pahadi boys in When the interim constitution was the Jana Andalan the state of lawlessness in Terai appearance. Although criminals have drafted, the issue of federalism was II was not became a fertile ground, while the The social dialogue should be no nationality, caste, religion or not adequately addressed. This state machinery continues to watch carried out between Madhesi and language, criminal activities are also resulted in the Madhesi movement. properly from a distance. Pahadi living in Terai, as well as beginning to be seen from a Secondly, the assurances given by the understood by In serious incidents like the one between various sub-communities of communal angle. Prime Minister in his address to the the government. which took place in Janakpur where Madhesis .at micro levels. This should nation in response to Madhesi 22 people died due to consumption of be followed by dialogue between the This is a new mindset which demands was not implemented. When The people’s locally brewed Rakshi and also state and Madhesi people, and developed after the Madhesis the interim government was formed, movement of communal flare up following the killing between Terai people and people of movement of 2007. Both Pahadis and proportional representation was of Mohit Khan in Kapilavastu, the neighboring Indian state. Madhesis living in Terai suffer from conveniently ignored. Hence instead of April 2006 absence of the state machinery was In the absence of committed state wrongly conceived notions. The solving the problem, the move further underscored the glaringly visible as evident from the machinery to correctly inform and Madhesis feel that that although they isolated the Madhesi people. need for number of people killed. enlighten people, rumours abound and have all along contributed towards it is dividing people on communal lines. the collective success of the April Thirdly, the presence and the ability recognising the Adding to this are the lethargic Unless such social dialogues are kept movement, they are drawn into a to assert by the state machinery was importance of political leaders, including those who in motion urgently, the very achieve- situation where they cannot ask for found wanting and continue to be so claim to champion the cause of ment of the Jana Andalan II may go a their democratic rights without facing in Terai districts. The activities of ending Madhesis, namely: Mahant Thakur, waste. Instead, we may continue to the danger of receiving bullets from some vested interest elements were Kathmandu Matrika Yadav, Upendra Yadav, see more of those incidents which took government forces. not properly controlled. Such lethargy based ruling Raghubir Mahaseth, Rajendro place in Nepalgunj, Lahan, Gaur and or apathy on the part of the state Mahato and Hridesh Tripathi who Kapilavastu. On the other hand, both old as well machinery indirectly legitimised concept. also failed to reach out to the people. (Chandrakishore Jha is Terai as young generations of Pahadis violence, and some criminals All of them prefer to politik in based journalist & an analyst)

The Indian Foreign Secretary's visit to people, the oppressed and exploited classes, Kathmandu was significant; however, it is too martyr's families and sister organisations to premature to conclude whether it has create disturbances so that security forces will yielded the desired outcome. India being Continuous have no option but to seek Maoist assistance. Nepal's largest stakeholder in Nepal's democratic transition and peace process Another component of their strategy is to must naturally be worried about the form a broad left alliance. According to the prevailing uncertainty. But despite India's seg of election Maoists, although UML is the main obstacle to worries and her suggestions to the con- the formation of a left alliance, efforts will cerned actors on the Nepali side, India's continue at forging a left unity will continue suggestions remain largely ignored. The results of the forthcoming CA elections will challenge even if it entails splitting the UML. The Maoists have also decided to politically the India may pressurise the Nepali side, but it Maoists’ very survival as a political party. damage the possible unification of the two is the Nepali leadership who has to ultimately NC's and to eliminate parties especially the do the work of building a democratic polity India and the Terai population and minimise the Congress from the Terai region. on the ground. Just as Menon left Nepal, the role of other parties. Maoists withdrew from the government and But the greater design of the Maoist that has cast serious questions regarding the Maoists have realised within the party rank plenum is their intent to exert influence over viability of the peace process. and file that; in Terai, the party cannot even the security forces, civil service and foreign äää Siddhartha Thapa defend itself, while, in the hilly regions, it is not in affairs to ensure facilitation of their attempted This time India was categorical in stating a position of strength. And in actuality, the results takeover in near future. For this to the need for free and fair elections as a of the forthcoming CA elections will challenge materialise, the Maoists have agreed that the prerequisite for legitimate polls. The interna- empty commitments towards the peace process their very survival as a political party. security, administrative and judicial system tional community largely follows the Indian has certainly irked everyone. However, it is must be further weakened. lead, therefore; the lack or the failure to pertinent now to evaluate what the Maoists On the issue of the proclamation of republic, conduct credible elections from the Nepali actually aim to achieve and how? the chairman is said to have explained that this Indian warning and Girija's tough stand side will invariably pose fundamental was not possible due to domestic circumstances against the Maoists has come at the last hour. questions to the external players – should The Maoist plenum had tactically aimed to and the international environment. And the party Perhaps, if the government and international they accept the verdict of hollow elections? send a message to the international community stressed on creating a favorable environment to community were not so busy appeasing the Consenting on fraudulent and hollow elections that Maoists are in favor of CA elections and get this proposal adopted. The party came to Maoists and had taken a strong stand on will inevitably raise questions regarding India's that the regressive forces, Congress and Terai the conclusion that it must come up with new fundamental issues, this situation would never and the international community's belief agitation were to blame should the elections be ideas aimed at ending monarchy. have arisen. But now the peace process is at towards democratic principles. postponed. Then the Maoists came to a stake. The Maoists have a reached a point of conclusion that the major political parties had In order to achieve their desired objective, the no-return and the government and the The tremor caused by the revelation that lost their popularity in the Terai, and Prachanda Maoists have planned to use disturbances as an international community are responsible for India would support the democratic process thought it was appropriate to raise the demand excuse to foment agitation. They have decided paving way for their further radicalisation. And against the Maoists is an important develop- for proportional representation in the CA to galvanise and activate human right activists, even if the Maoists agree to join the govern- ment. The rigidness of the Maoists and their elections as the main issue in order to appease media, NGO/INGOs, physically challenged ment, it will not be in the same spirit. ä Interview 24-30 Sept, 2007 7 Suu Kyi meets protesting monks

About 10,000 people, led by thousands of turn: "Long life and health for Aung San Suu Kyi, Buddhist monks, marched Sunday in Myanmar's may she have freedom soon." main city of Yangon in an escalating show of The military often posts armed guards to dissent against the military government, block traffic on University Avenue to prevent witnesses said. traffic from passing by, but witnesses said the Nearly 5,000 monks joined by 150 nuns were monks had persuaded the 20 armed guards to followed by about 5,000 supporters as they raise the blockade. "They told the guards that marched from the golden Shwedagon Pagoda, they just wanted to go to pray for Aung San Suu Myanmar's most important landmark, the Kyi, because we are Buddhists," one witness witnesses said. "We are marching for the said. The guards did not interrupt the monks people," chanted the monks. "We want the during their prayers, but closed the roadblock people to join us." The protest began with after they left. about 5,000 people, but quickly doubled in size The gates to her compound stayed shut as they marched into downtown Yangon, in the throughout, but one witness said that at one sixth consecutive day of protest in nation's point, Aung San Suu Kyi was only five feet away commercial hub. from the monks. Monks are rumoured to be The march was by far the biggest protest in planning another march at midday, while one Yangon since anti-government demonstrations underground group has called for nationwide broke out five weeks ago following a massive prayer vigils to begin. hike in fuel prices that left many unable to afford even a bus ride to work. Media blackout The demonstrations have snowballed into the For their part, Myanmar's military rulers have most serious challenge to the ruling junta in stepped out of a side door of her home, one refused to tell citizens about the protests, nearly two decades. witness said. choosing instead to fill its state-run newspaper Unable to hold back her tears, Aung San Suu with reports of floods and traffic. There were no TTTearful encounter Kyi waved to the monks and their supporters as reports on Sunday of the monks' protests. The On Saturday, the army allowed about 2,000 they paused outside the gates to chant prayers state-run New Light of Myanmar prominently monks and civilians to pass a roadblock and for peace. The monks spent about 15 minutes featured a story about General Than Shwe, the gather by Aung San Suu Kyi's lakeside home on chanting the same Buddhist prayer they had government head, sending greetings to Saudi University Avenue. She greeted them from the recited through much of their earlier march in Arabia on its national day. house where she has been detained for 12 of Yangon, the witnesses said. Inside, there were stories on floods, paddy the past 18 years. Witnesses said Aung San "May we be completely free from all danger, plantings and efforts to prevent river erosion. Suu Kyi was in tears as she greeted the may we be completely free from all grief, may The newspaper derided the National League for cinnamon-robed monks. we be completely free from poverty, may we Democracy led by Aung San Suu Kyi as The 62-year-old Nobel Peace prize winner have peace in heart and mind," they intoned. "incompetent and seeking political gain". The has become an internationally recognised Aung San Suu Kyi was in NLD won elections in 1990 by a landslide, but figurehead of Myanmar's pro-democracy Chanting supporters the Myanmarese military never recognised the movement. They were chanting for around five tears as she greeted the Some of their supporters broke into tears as result. minutes before she and two other women cinnamon-robed monks. they joined in with their own refrain, chanting in (Inquirer.net)

Laden wants Pakistan To Fukuda Wins Poll, Likely Next PM The moderate veteran politician Yasuo secretary from 2000 to 2004, has the support of Abe apologized to the party in a message revolt against Fukuda easily won election as president of the major factions of the LDP. His dominance read after Fukuda's selection. Japan's struggling ruling party on Sunday, over Aso, a hawk who served as Abe's foreign "I apologize to Aso and all LDP lawmak- President assuring his selection as the new prime minister until August, was so clear by Sunday ers, party members and the Japanese public minister in a parliamentary vote later this that morning papers had already given him the for causing a political vacuum," said the week. Fukuda won 330 votes to former title of LDP president, and he was asked on note. Fukuda has arrived as an antidote to Foreign Minister Taro Aso's 197 votes, the NHK if he would choose Aso as his foreign Abe. A sober, brainy party elder, Fukuda — party announced. minister. Fukuda would inherit a political son of a prime minister from the 1970s — Fukuda, 71, the son of a prime minister from the 1970s, has vowed to keep his country in the fight against terrorism, improve relations with Asia and address inequalities in the world's second-largest economy. Fukuda vowed on Sunday to The leader of al Qaeda Osama bin rebuild the popularity of the Liberal Laden has put out a call to the people of Democratic Party, which has suffered a Pakistan to revolt against President year of scandals and policy missteps by Pervez Musharraf. outgoing Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who Osama bin Laden released a brand has been hospitalized since announcing on new recording on Thursday stating that Sept. 12 that he would resign. the siege of a militant mosque stronghold "It is natural that we are facing public earlier in the year makes him an infidel. criticism," Fukuda said in a joint appear- Bin Laden stated that the storming of ance with his rival, Aso, on national the Red Mosque showed “Musharraf’s broadcaster NHK. "We must make efforts insistence on continuing his loyalty, patiently to regain public trust." Fukuda submissiveness and aid to America also pushed his key policies: To further environment and LDP left in serious disarray. has vowed to concentrate on down-to-earth against the Muslims … and makes engage North Korea diplomatically, push Abe, 53, came into office a year ago with high issues such as economic equality and armed rebellion against him and for extension of Japan's naval mission in support ratings and an unquestioned ruling growth, while seeking warmer ties with the removing him obligatory.” support of U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan, coalition dominance in parliament. rest of Asia. He concluded stating “So when the and give aid to rural regions left behind by But he quickly frittered away those advan- It was unclear, however, how long Fukuda capability is there, it is obligatory to rebel the economic recovery. tages as his Cabinet overflowed with money would be able to stave off calls for lower against the apostate ruler as is the case "We need to show our intention to scandals and he pressed ahead with a house elections. He has termed such calls now.” The title of the message was “Come continue the mission as a message to the nationalist agenda while people demanded "understandable." Media reports said the to Jihad.” This call comes after al Qaeda international society," Fukuda said of the more attention to bread-and-butter issues such LDP wanted to pass the Afghan measure put out an 80-minute documentary stating Afghan mission, which the opposition has as pensions. and the national budget early next year how they defeated the United States in vowed to defeat in parliament. "If this drags The LDP suffered a serious blow in elections before dissolving the lower house. "When Afghanistan and are doing the same in on too long we might send a wrong in July for the upper house of parliament in the public and lawmakers strongly voice a Iraq. The video promised more bloodshed message to the world as if we were not which the resurgent opposition seized control of need to dissolve the parliament, I think it in those countries, Darfur, and elsewhere. committed to making that contribution." the chamber, heightening calls for snap elections wouldn't be good to resist that call," Fukuda (Daily Times) Fukuda, who served as chief Cabinet for the lower house as well. said on NHK. ä 10 24-30 Sept, 2007 Art & society 250th year Kumari festival Marshland Flowers In Nepal we have a tradition of worshipping female power, and Science itself never claims what it cannot Kumari is one such power. measure at the moment as superstitious. The tradition of Kumari is always appreciable. Here I worshipping is very ancient and would like to mention the reaction ä Acharya Mahayogi Sridhar Rana Rinpoche its' history can be traced back to of ex-Kumari Rasmila Sakya to a the Vedic period. In Nepal most question by a journalist, “To It is through various types of these brain chemicals probably it came with the become god is easier than to Samatha practice that various like dopamine, Lichchavis in the beginning of the Dr. Shaphalya Amatya become a human." Pratiharyas (miraculous powers) also serotonin etc were all Christian era. Worshipping of The controversy raised by the called Siddhi – Riddhis develop as a untrue/unreal/ young maidens is a deep-rooted freedom of movement and visit of Bal Kumari of Bhaktapur to matter of course; or if they do not superstitious till the mid 20th century, tradition among the valley people freedom of speech; and that even the United States of America is easily develop, they can be developed and then they suddenly became real/ since ages. Kumari is one among after the child is removed from also interesting. The main by various specialised mental true/scientific? Such type of thinking is the eight mother goddesses Kumari-hood she is deprived of Kathmandu Kumari cannot even exercises geared to awaken these absurd to say the least. worshipped and revered in the leading a normal and honorable leave the city. She can go out of potentials in the human mind. Furthermore, science itself never valley since the beginning of the life. her temple house only about a In this era of modernism when the claims what it cannot measure at the history. The Supreme Court ordered dozen times to attain various physical science was considered the moment as superstitious. It is the half The practice of worshipping the Ministry of Culture to provide festivals and rituals in a year. The evaluating measuring rod for the validity baked ultra-modernist types whose Goddess Kumari has been its' opinion on this issue and to foreign visit of Bal Kumari of of anything, Pratiharyas were suspect. knowledge of science is limited to continuing since then. The last study and submit a report for Bhaktapur cannot be appreciated And many Buddhists with modernistic vague ideas and the enjoyment of Malla King Jaya Prakash Malla in timely improvement of this because it has diminished the leanings even thought that these were consumerist goods produced by NS 877(AD1757) started the tradition within three months. The curiosity, faith, value and sensitivity interpolated into the Buddhist scripture science that have these kinds of quaint tradition of chariot festival and this Ministry of Culture formed a of Kumari as a whole of this very by overly naïve simple village folks. notions. As early as 1950 Einstein year NS1127 (AD 2007), the committee to give necessary institution of Kumari. The author Needless to say this was a result of the declared that science cannot and will 250th anniversary of the chariot recommendations in this issue. or a film producer could invite one so called scientific education spawned not answer all the questions and festival is going to be held. There Recently they received the report of the ex-Kumaris for launching out by modernism. But the beauty of problems of mankind. This is true certainly is no harm in observing from the said committee and the his book or a film but not a science is that it moves on and does not because rational linear thinking, on some new trends in rituals or report has been sent to the court Kumari in office. remain static. which science is based, is only one festivals since it gives a new lease for consideration. The program committee of the From the 18th century to the mid mode of thinking and knowing available to life, makes it more vibrant and The report has clearly stated impending festival announced that 20th century, science progressed in to man. The world view made available can be enjoyed by everybody. that the Kumari tradition has not they will be decorating the leaps and bounds to such an through science is only one possible In Nepal we have a tradition of violated the human rights of the chariots of Kumari and the house unimaginable extent that man thought view amongst many other views. And worshipping female power, and child. Although she has some artistically; Nepali traditional and science alone was the answer to all its this materialistic reductionist view of Kumari is one such power. Most restrictions in her rights, which folk musical instruments will be questions. So the milieu developed in science is not only an artificial view probably Nepal is the only country can be considered as a very played throughout the festival; which whatever was scientific was extracted out of reality but also it is not in the world where a virgin girl is minor loss compared to the and the ex- Kumaris will be true/ real/valid/non-superstitious and more real than any other view. worshipped as a goddess. She is respect she gets and her position honored. The whole week of the whatever was not scientific was Using the empirical reductionist the chief deity and protector of in the society. The report has festival will be observed by untrue/invalid/superstitious. The positivism (reducing all things to the valley people. It is believed recommended some economic chanting religious songs and progress of physics and other physical empirically measurable things etc) that the head of the state rules benefits and facilities for her burning lamps around Kumari sciences was so mind boggling, that its modus operandi itself, we can question the country only as her trustee benefit. It has laid more emphasis house. Commemorative coins dazzle blinded all those who were part this style of absurd thinking that only and in accordance with the on the continuation of this and postage stamps will be of the era of modernism. But there what is empirically measurable is true/ mandate given to him only for one tradition which has very close links released on the occasion, and a was a flaw in this thinking and not only real/valid/non-superstitious. The million year and every year he has to and relationships with Kathmandu cultural program and traditional Buddhist but also many Hindu Swamis dollar question is, "Is this hypothesis renew it with her blessing. She valley culture and religion. It also feast will be organised. and Yogis also failed to see it. empirically measurable?" Since it is not, symbolises our religious synchro- gave more impetus for its' The Kumari tradition is one of First of all only what can be by its own logic falls apart. nism. Both the Hindus and the promotion, preservation and the mysteries of our country. measured can be studied by physics The central point of Werner Buddhists worship her with equal publicity because it is a unique There is no harm in having some and such other physical sciences. Now Heisenberg in his various books like veneration. To the Hindus she is Nepali tradition found nowhere such mysteries. Our life, culture there are many things which cannot Physics and Beyond, Across the the incarnation of goddess Tulaja else. and religion will become dry and and will never be measured like love/ Frontiers etc is that physics can make or Durga. To the Buddhists she is Kumari today has an official uninteresting if we do not have or compassion/beauty, the splendour of only statements about strictly limited Vajra Devi or the consort of tutor at her temple residence and keep some such mysteries. We the Himalayas and so on. We cannot relations that are only valid within the Heruka. she is given remuneration for her see goddess Kumari in our girl possibly say that such things are framework of those limitations. He also Recently this historical, cultural service to the country after her children and treat them with unreal/untrue/superstitious. Secondly says, "Science tries to give its concepts and religious institution of Kumari retirement when she reaches the respect and love; and this value is the physical sciences are limited by the an objective meaning. But religious was dragged into a controversy. age of puberty or twelve years. I well worth emulating by those type of instrument available. language must avoid this very cleavage Some women rights activists filed am in touch with a few ex- who look down on their girl That means even those things of the world into its objective and its a case in the Supreme Court Kumaris and I have found that children or treat the birth of a girl which could be measurable like the subjective sides: for who would dare against the continuation of Kumari they had absolutely no regrets child with despair. If all of us chemical correlates in the brain to love claim the objective side to be more real tradition. The petitioners argued about their childhood spent as learned to treat each and every and feel compassion were out of than the subjective? (To be continued.) that when a child is selected as a Goddess Kumari. Regarding their girl child like the Goddess Kumari, reach of the sciences in the 18th and (Sridhar Rinpoche is a Vajrayana Kumari she loses her human maintenance and allowances if an equal, happy, balanced society 19th century. Now are we to say that Master) rights or fundamental rights like the government increases it, that would emerge naturally. ä Art & society 24-30 Sept, 2007 11

A lot more Shiva’s needs to Nepali gloom be done to Nepali fiction has come under the frivolous influence of university dwelling preserve teachers trying to shape their narratives this magi- First, they burned jungles, compelled to distribute it free of cost cal reli- cornfields and hungry huts. as only a few buy the poetry gious site. Burnt cots, almirahs and clothes, collections. Even though there is no and stumps of the remaining trees-- proper poetry publisher to promote it; ä Pramesh Pradhan the same ash seekers poetry in this tumultuous Himalayan Then they made our children carry ä Yuyutsu RD Sharma nation thrives. For poetry is the only Pashupatinath, Nepal’s Hindu around the main Pashupati temple, the ashes on their mule backs. way one has to overcome the shrine abounds with different the whole complex looks like an Again they burnt the whole Wesley McNair said to me once: Do not sadness that the contemporary temples, images and inscriptions. open religious museum. Ritual landscape--wheat fields, barns, and say much. Do not write too much. We political chaos imposes on the Pashupati is a cauldron of pilgrims, bathing in Bagmati, is considered my beautiful wooden house. poets do not have much to say about average Nepalis. hymns, bodies being cremated, equivalent to having a bath in the Slowly as we watched they burnt our woes, even about the woes of our The fiction writers, especially story yogis and devotees. Shiva, one of Ganges in India; although today, the whole village. world. So save it and write a poem. writing , remains under the influence the three supreme Gods in the quality of water is extremely Powerless, this moment we stand True to my friend's conviction in of obscurantist theorists senselessly Hinduism stands on the banks of poor to say the least. A senior shivering in the cold Nepal, it is the young Nepali poets parroting post modern, Bagmati River in eastern citizens’ home stands a stone’s alone bare and barren in this who seem to have saved their deconstructionist aesthetics even Kathmandu. The revered two throw away from the temple. deserted village. breaths to articulate the agony of this without properly understanding it. roofed pagoda temple is replete The temple of Guheshwori -Padam Gautam, Joint Pain nation in most concentrated forms. It The Nepali fiction has come under with sparkling roofs, silver doors, nearby is dedicated to Shiva's first is poetry here that seems to speak of the frivolous influence of university and captivating wood carvings. wife Satidevi. Other temples such as The political fires flare up. Dreams the contemporary chaos more teachers trying to shape their Shiva’s transport, a bull (Nandi) sits Gorakhanath, Viswaroop, of dead ones and future of anarchy succinctly. Not the fiction that speaks narratives in light of what was popular right in front of the main temple. Bacchareswori, Ram temple, remains subject of the nation reeling of the song of the sadness of the in American universities in eighties. under the shadow of its own people suffering in this endless The actual fact of this nation misfortune. Would peace ever return inferno with alarming depth. waking from the stupor of middle to this Shangri-la? The best that there is available ages into the chaos of modern Disgruntled citizens, corruption in today in Nepali literature is in poetry. century hardly bothers them. As they rife in political circles and the nation In spite of the big news that the world intend to startle their students with burns. The lines of young poet publishing scenarios seem to be their academic ingenuity, the real life Padam Gautam that I translated from giving, the best about the soul of drama of Nepali mountains appears the Nepali above mirror the sad state Nepal can be found in poetry. remote to them. of the polity now. Even though most of our poets (The writer can be reached at I remember what American poet publish their own works, they are [email protected])

A world heritage site, Pashupati Vishnu’s terracotta image, Brahma is believed to have been built at image and a 6th century image of Listen to him, give time the beginning of Licchavi period in Buddha are within walking distance. the 4th century. The temple was Shivaratri, the night of Shiva, is Counseling by drug therapist, Ragina Shah totally destroyed during Moghul the special day for Shiva worship- invasion in the valley in 1349 AD. pers when thousands of devotees When you suspect your student so that he can trust and can At the same time getting The temple standing today was queue up to worship the deity. student is addicted, what do confide in you. A person can be into professional help for his addiction constructed in late 17th century. Religious functions, hymns and you do? drugs for various reasons - problems is very essential. Drug users often Only Hindus and Buddhist are cultural programmes are held in ä Renuka Rai, Bansbari in the family, problems with peers, think that they are managing their allowed inside the temple, a the complex round the clock. Teej boredom, physical pain, etc. Drug drug habit well and it is not an regulation made after the Muslim is another special day when If you doubt that your student is abuse is the negative handling of his addiction. Such people may not be invasion, and is still practiced. women visit the temple; wearing into drugs and if the student has problems. aware of the fact, taking drugs The tradition of offering wealth only red and they fast, pray, sing not acknowledged the fact, you You need to talk with him, help him frequently as a means to cope with and land to the temple by kings of and dance for good life and will have to observe him/her for a be aware of his problems, listen to their problem shows something is different dynasties made it the longevity of their husbands. while. You will have to observe him and give him time to open up. wrong. At the same time there richest temple in Nepal. Pashupati Ekadashis, Maghe sakranti, closely his circle of friends, You need to tell him basically he is a needs to be support from their was revered as the patron of Chaturdashi, Kushe aunshi are behaviour, appearance and good person and just the fact that he family for them to remain Nepal when Nepal was a Hindu special days when devotees throng relationship with peers; and look came to you is a positive factor, and motivated and stay drug free. Kingdom, with a long history of to the temple. out for any abnormal signs. shows he wants to change for the (Send questions on drug/ religious harmony and tolerance. Half naked Sadhus or If you see any, you need to better. This will help him boost his self alcohol/smoking addiction to: In the main sanctuary, replaced in renunciates try and imitate the build a good rapport with the esteem. [email protected]) 14th century is a Chaturmukhlinga legendary Shiva. They cover their (four faced phallus) carved on a bodies in ashes with minimal blackish stone. Early Aryans clothing and are sometimes seen INSIGHT worshipped Shiva in the form of smoking marijuana and pose Rudra and later as Lingam. unbelievable postures and try to Legend says Lord Shiva grew impress their audience. On the bored in Mt. Kailash with his banks of Bagmati are raised worldly assignments, armies of platforms or Ghats for cremation. ghosts and spirits and his Cremation pyres are erected at charming wife Parvati. He five levels symbolising the return of planned to tour alone and the the five cosmic elements so as to place he chose was Pashupati. liberate the dead of all what he/she He enjoyed life incognito as a had received from the world. deer in Slesmantak forest. Although a world heritage site, Because of the universal Pashupatinath lacks facilities for imbalance in Shiva’s absence, he devotees such as a clean river, was located in this area and safe drinking water and clean thereby named Pashupati, toilets. A lot still needs to be done meaning the lord of animals. to preserve this magical religious Shiva is believed to be able to site; especially in terms of destroy anything or every evil cleanliness and raising awareness force either with his trident or his among the visitors so that they third eye. In his devotees, he treat the site with respect and destroys their ignorance. reverence. Only then can the Worshipping Pashupati is magical place be preserved for believed to release a devotee future generations. from cycles of rebirths. (The writer can be contacted at: With around 50 temples [email protected]) Mountain view from a village in Syangja, Nepal. - Sushma Amatya 12 24-30 Sept, 2007 Meditation Can yoga be a

ä Dr. Rita Thapa (Former WHO staff) modern life choice?

The attractive arrays of fancy Your Mind, Change Your Brain). yoga products that we find these Yoga Master Swami It testifies what the Shakya Muni days in global markets indicate its Ramdev in Kathmandu. Buddha has been teaching us worldwide popularity, across since the last 2500 years. It culture and age. These products shows that brain changes can are designed to cater to various be generated by pure mental human needs ranging from activity. That means mind- health, fitness and glamour to meditation can change brains, sport like golf. Yet one can how people think can really wonders, how could an ancient change their brains. tradition like yoga be compatible with the needs of our modern These findings combined with life? the recent discovery in neuro- science that adult brain retains the We hear from our elders that ability to change its structures and yoga is a traditional science. Its functions (neuro plasticity) throws regular practice can help us to a new light in our understanding harmonise body and mind, thus of meditation and its role in the guaranteeing a better physical management of associated mental and mental well-being. Is it true? health problems like, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder With this in mind, let us review (OCD),and brain damage from a how scientific is this ancient stroke and others. wisdom of yoga. Patanjali presented integrated yoga more We find now that the tradi- than 2500 years ago as a way to tional science of yoga that was promote and protect human founded on thousands of years health. Although Patanjali had of experiential knowledge is described eight interactive scientifically valid. There are practices under integrated yoga, scientific explanations as to why they can be organised into three regular practice of yoga could main categories, namely, physical prevent not only the occurrence

postures, breathing exercises and Bhashwor Ojha of various physical and psycho- meditation. somatic disorders, it improves in serum protein level. Furthermore, the exercise. Buddhist meditation, allows us to ability to cope stresses more Yogic physical postures: hormones secreted by thyroid, recognise and control various positive effectively, promotes musculosk- The yogic postures are of several adrenal glands, including sex glands Meditation: Meditation is a highly and negative emotions and thoughts eletal & neurological functions types. They are mainly designed were also found increased in the developed form of mental training. as they arise. This gradually helps us despite the aging. Thus, yoga to improve the musculoskeletal practitioners of yogic postures. This is to positively steer the various to take “action in awareness” rather stands as one of the safest, and several organs’ functions like functions of body and mind. Regular than just reacting. There is no better easiest and least expensive heart, lungs, liver and gas- Breathing exercise: This is an meditation helps us to gradually example of applied form of, “action in ways of promoting and protect- trointestinal tracts including important part of yoga, and a key to develop control over the various awareness’ than that of Tiger Woods, ing one’s physical, mental and reproductive organs. Studies on obtaining optimal wellbeing. Like involuntary functions of body and the invincible world champion of golf. social wellbeing. normal individuals have indicated postures, many types of yogic brain such as heart beating, food Once in an ABC- TV interview, Tiger that a regular practice of yogic breathing exercises are described. digestion, and oxygen absorption Woods while crediting his mother for Developing an optimally postures leads to decrease in the Basically, these breathing exercises from lungs including the various passing on him the meditation, functioning body and brain does pulse rate, blood pressure, are meant to optimally aerate every emotions. Patanjali has described confided, “I use my mind as my main not usually require some high tech respiration and body weight, cells and molecules of our body with eight steps of meditation to achieve asset.” fancy medical interventions and including improvement of life force-the oxygen, while taking the ultimate goal of superconciouness hospitals or expensive medicines. psychological intelligence and all the toxins and tensions out from state. To this effect, a recent ground It can come from a smart life style memory quotient. our body system. Regular practice breaking collaborative scientific choice we make early on. Yoga is of yogic breathing has shown a Vipassana, a popularly practiced study between neuroscience and one of such modern life choice. The biochemical examination of similar positive biochemical results method in Nepal, is one of the several Buddhism has shown that deliber- But it takes our personal efforts the blood of these individuals has as that of yogic postures, except methods described by the Shakya ate mental training can bring about and commitment to co-opt it into shown decrease in blood sugar that the fall in serum cholesterol Muni Buddha. Founded on experien- observable changes in the human our daily life activities –as a mark and serum cholesterol, and a rise was much more marked than that in tial knowledge, Vipassana, like other brain (2007, Sharaon Begley,Train of a modern Nepali. ä