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Monks performing Monlam prayer festival for world peace at Rabten Ling Monastery, LumbiniLumbini, ... Hemanta Gurung No shift Visa to ‘terrorists’ on govt request äää nf correspondent vis a vis Nepal army. Despite suspension of lethal arms and other equipments in the wake of Nepal army is believed to have lodged a protest Royal takeover in February 2005, the US ‘informally’ with the United States for having given government had continued providing usual visa to Prabhakar, Deputy leader of the Commu- training and other logistical support to the army. nist Party of Nepal-Maoists (CPN-M) parliamen- tary party. The protest was lodged on grounds that Are there any restrictions on the movement of Prabhakar who is Deputy Commander of the these Maoist leaders outside New York, if the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) had led the Maoist visa was granted purely to facilitate their attack on army in Pili at a construction site, killing participation in the United Nations at its many unarmed army personnel, two years ago. headquarter? Diplomats quote US authorities as having stated that the US is not a police state to The US Embassy in Kathmandu is however, go that far, but they would certainly expect believed to have explained to the army as well Maoist leaders not to carry on any undesired as the diplomats, NGOs and politicians ‘unoffi- political activities in any part of the US. cially’ that visa was granted to three Maoist parliamentarians including Prabhakar on the Apart from Prabhakar, Maoist leader Suresh Ale request of the government of Nepal to facilitate Magar has been granted the visa as part of the them to participate in the UN general assembly government delegation on recommendation of the meeting, but it in no way indicated any shift on Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ale Magar had been US policy towards the Maoists. denied visa a few months ago on the way back from Latin America, citing the reason that the Maoist outfit Embassy officials are also believed to have had been placed on the US government’s terrorist explained to the army that they gave the visa to list. Despite their having been granted visas, the Prabhakar as the government failed to lodge any Maoist parliamentarians would not be entertained by objection to his traveling to the US. Shital Niwas any US authorities at any other social occasions or sent a list of 43 members from different parties, a meetings, diplomats said. record in terms of the number and expenditure made from the government exchequer, for the The US embassy is also believed to have told parliamentarians’ visit to the US. the authorities that it is not going to take Maoists off its terrorist’s list unless they give proof of their Nepal army apparently took this US gesture sincere commitment to peace and democracy, towards the Maoists as a shift in the US policy through their actions. ä 2 3-9 Dec, 2007 News On sale–Nepali embassies

ä Kiran Bhandari London told newsfront on condition of anonymity. The government is considering A committee formed by the selling off at least four Nepali government for the purpose is embassies abroad on grounds of believed to have estimated that high maintenance cost; but senior maintaining the embassy building in officials of the foreign ministry and the present shape would cost at some former Nepali ambassadors least 45 crore Rupees (nearly 45 say that the move is directed more million pounds), but some senior by lust and greed for kick-backs officials are believed to have during the transaction. challenged the estimate. On top of the list for sale is Nepali There are also preliminary embassy in London at Kensington rounds of suggestions within the Garden Palace, a prime location; as ministry and Baluwatar about the Prime Minister GP Koirala has taken need to sell the embassy property in interest in the matter personally. Delhi, Bonn and Belgium. A senior Koirala instructed the new ambas- official in the Foreign Ministry told sador, Murari Raj Sharma to newsfront that the only property formalise the deal. that needs to be sold is the "Please go ahead with the deal," embassy in Bonn since it now he told Ambassador Sharma in remains unused following the front of other ambassadors who transfer of the capital to Berlin. had called on the PM at his The property in Belgium was Baluwatar residence about a month bought by Singha Pratap Shah, way ago. Given the prime location and back in 70s for 10,000 US dollars. size of the land and other assets, "Yes, if both ambassadors’ the property could fetch up to 55 residences which are located in million pounds sterling, but officials more expensive areas and are in a who know about the latest bad shape could be sold along with development say, the government the embassy, we could buy new could even throw away the whole property with that money," the property for less than 40 million official said. "But the government pounds. seems more interested in selling the The government’s intent to sell embassy in London first, and Delhi the property has not been notified afterwards, since it would fetch anywhere officially, which is the more money, more commission, all normal practice in such deals. at the cost of the state exchequer." Among others, industrialist Lakshmi The embassy in London, a Royal Kant Mittal is believed to have property, was given to the govern- shown interest in the property as he ment of Nepal in 1936 by the British has his property in the neighbor- government, apparently as a token hood. of appreciation of Nepal's military "It will be a shame to sell that support. A fresh lease of 99 years property on any pretext…the was signed in 1977. Delhi's records and estimate of expenses embassy that was established for maintenance are being inflated during the 40s is located at to sell the property at a cheap Barakhamba road, in the heart of price," a former ambassador to the capital. Pix by newsfront Foundation in Dr. Gurung’s memory Recognising a hero's contribution

Friends and admirers of Dr. introduce CGCF in Nepal and Dr Gurung, PhD in medical Chandra Prasad Gurung have publicise the establishment of Chandra anthropology from the University of formed Chandra Gurung Conserva- Gurung Conservation Trust in the Hawaii was the Country Representa- tion Foundation (CGCF). The United States; to make public aware of tive of the World Wild Life Fund Foundation was launched on the the vision of the trust which will be (WWF), Nepal. He had also served occasion of his birth anniversary on working in collaboration, in many as Member Secretary of the King December 1, first after his death in areas; and begin fund-raising to start Mahendra Trust for Nature Conser- an air crash at Taplejung's Dhunsa the work of the foundation. vation; and was one of the pioneers area, last year. "During his life-time Dr Gurung had in designing Nepal's first community The occasion was marked by a one vision, to conserve Nepal's most based integrated conservation and nature hike organised by the valuable treasure for her people, her development project that took the foundation in which his friends, natural heritage. Intrinsic to his vision shape of The Annapurna Conserva- colleagues and fans, about 150 in was the belief that conserving tion Area Programme (ACAP). number, trekked to the Shivapuri biodiversity and natural resources can He had been recognised and National park area, followed by a only be achieved through active honoured for his contribution to spiritual ceremony at the Lhun Drop participation of the local people. Dr nature conservation, both at home Choeling Gompa (Budhanilkantha Gurung dedicated his whole life to his and abroad. A recipient of the Ati monastery). cause. He also found time to mentor Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu, he was Organisers said the aim of the countless individuals and guide them," also awarded the Knight First Class, event was: to officially launch and a press note issued by the CGCF said. Order of the Lion of Finland. News 3-9 Dec, 2007 3 PM yields Unhappy Threat of mass defiance in Congress Danish

ä nf correspondent How is our money being spent? Prime Minister GP Koirala was all set to declare Nepal a Republic country to save his chair, and ensure election to the The government of Nepal faces the constituent assembly (CA) by mid April, but desisted from doing prospect of facing punitive action from so in the face of defiance by a large number of parliamentarians donors if it further defaults in its belonging to the Nepali Congress (NC). commitment to holding elections to the "If you go beyond what the party's general assembly has Constituent Assembly (CA) on schedule. mandated you for, we are going to defy the party whip," the party An indication to this was given by leaders warned Koirala last week. And the person who decisively Danish Ambassador, Finn Thilsted convinced PM Koirala of the disastrous consequences that a during his interaction with the media in political surrender to the Maoists’ demands, was Sushil Koirala, Dhangadi last week. He made it clear the Working President of NC. that although in the long run, Denmark During several rounds of informal meetings that the senior will have to review issues like financial leaders and parliamentarians had with the PM last week at his assistance to the government of Nepal if residence for three consecutive days, they told him to stick to the there was no elected government; it was mandate of the party general assembly that favoured a final in favour of election to the CA taking decision on the fate of monarchy, and oppose the Proportional place by Mid-April. It would be difficult, Representation (PR) system of election. he said, to continue with the aid projects It was this crucial meeting that apparently forced Koirala to make if election is not held and, a historic his mind public, totally rejecting the Maoists’ demands for a PR opportunity, which could be a milestone system. "This will lead to the disintegration of the country," he said in in Nepal's peace process is bungled. an interview he gave to Spotlight (weekly), with a categorical Peter Eilschow Olesen, Deputy Head assertion against Maoists’ pre-condition for CA polls in future. of the Mission of Danish Embassy, told Govinda Raj Joshi, one of the most vocal and persuasive newsfront, in Kathmandu that the members of the group told Koirala point blank that the way he government of Denmark was definitely was surrendering to the Maoists will now have only two conse- concerned about the frequent postpone- quences. "Either you will end up handing over power to the ment of elections to the CA. "Our Maoists or the army." The only way to avoid that, Joshi advised, government is answerable to our was to reinforce law and order, exercise the authority of the state, parliament and the people; and the and expand party's base among a large number of electorate and money that we have given to Nepal for citizens who were quite scared of the Maoists way of politics. conducting election should be spent for "There were of course some feeble voices that suggested that purpose within the stipulated time," Koirala to be considerate towards Maoists’ demands, but they he said, adding "It cannot be spent for were lost in the din," a senior member of the party's central other purposes." committee said. Vinay Dhoj Chand and Sunil Bhandari warned The stand of the Danish embassy Koirala that many parliamentarians will revolt against the here is being taken as an indicator that it leadership if the party was to conduct itself under dictates of the is going to seek details of the financial Maoists. assistance it gave to the government They also advised the PM to note that Maoists were not at all and the election commission for holding interested in participating in the CA polls, “Even if you consider all election on November 22. There are their demands.” The declaration made by Mukti Pradhan, an also indications that the Danish advocate and leader of the Maoist party almost confirmed that government might ask for its return, if fear. Speaking to BBC Nepali Service on Saturday night, the the new deadline is missed. The Maoist leader said that all parties existing at present will not be government is contemplating to hold allowed to contest elections. "Only those accepting the ideology election, postponed twice by the we champion would be entitled to contest elections," he said. government, by mid April.

Newsbrief

are there legally with government’s permission," a YCL leader community more confused and suspicious about the former Troika to visit Nepal said. He said that the YCL had been approached by many rebels's commitment to peace and democracy. A European troika delegation will visit Nepal to explore ways people to set up its offices, “And so we approached the of supporting the government in the peace process as well as government to give us a suitable site. We have got these two Wanting in sincerity sites on order of a minister he said," but he did not identify the in conduct of credible elections. The Communist Party of Nepal-Maoists (CPN-M) has never minister. Both buildings currently 'captured' by the YCL belong The delegation during its four day visit beginning December apologised for any crime the party committed during the years to the Ministry of Labour and Transport. 3 will offer its support to the government to put in place the key of conflict or in peace time. The closest the party leadership has building blocks of the peace process and credible elections at come to showing any sign of ‘regret’ is by expressing ‘sorrow’ the earliest opportunity. New ambassador over the incident. The high-level delegation consists of officials from Portugal, Indian ambassador, Shiv Shankar Mukherjee will soon be The latest expression of ‘sorrow’ came from party Chief the current EU Presidency, Slovenia, the forthcoming EU replaced by Rakesh Sood. The new appointment was officially Prachanda over the abduction and torture of Dr Gyanendra Presidency, the European Commission and the European announced in Delhi recently. Sood holds the rank of a Joint Giri, Chairman of the Biratnagar based Nobel Medical College, Council. The troika will support Nepal's peace process and Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador by Young Communist League activists recently. encourage the parties to work together for the people of Nepal, Mukherjee who has been in Nepal almost for four years now Prachanda admitted that his YCL cadres were misled by a statement issued by the EU here, said. will be succeeding Kamlesh Sharma as High Commissioner to ‘someone’ into abducting Dr. Giri and his colleagues in a 'filmi The troika will be focusing on issues like improvement of London. style', and assured cooperation with the government in initiating public security, discussion on the future of Maoist combatants, action against that person. He however gave no indication that an end to impunity and human rights abuse, progress on Agremo YCL activists involved in the crime would be handed over to the development and dialogue with marginalised groups, the government authorities. Sagar, the valley in charge of the YCL, Shailaja Acharya has been appointed Nepal's ambassador to statement said. has been asked to apologise for his cadres in the abduction case. Delhi. Acharya, a senior Congress leader, will now be going to The CPN-M chief said what happened to an 'honourable' Delhi soon. The government of Nepal finally received the On govt. order doctor was not right. The YCL is directly under charge of agremo from Delhi, more than two months after the proposal Prachanda. After the doctor's abduction case, Prachanda has Young Communist League (YCL) may have forcibly captured was sent. But the fate of at least four more ambassador also promised that the YCL would be transformed into a good private, government and semi-government properties in designates hangs in balance as the host countries have not yet organisation indicating that they would no longer be used for different parts of the country; but it has legally 'captured' at responded to the government of Nepal's proposal to appoint looting, abduction and other crimes. But there are still some least two government offices in prime locations in Kathmandu. them. banners hung in different parts of the capital asking people "to The head office of the trolley bus in Min Bhavan Incidentally, all the ambassador designates belong to the let us know about suspicious behaviour of the people or their (Baneshwar) and another huge building in Pachali (Teku) have Maoist party. More and more hardened attitude on the part of activities.” been under the occupation of the YCL for months now. "We the Maoist party against election is making international 4 3-9 Dec, 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 If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they’ll kill you. - Oscar Wilde Accountability To what extent should international community or any country get involved in Nepal’s domestic affairs? Nepal government, civil society and key political actors have taken stands, often contradic- tory, and their response are guided by their own narrow self- interests at any given point of time. Theoretically speaking, international community or any country’s Letters or their representatives’ behaviour and conduct should be in conformity with the norms and practices of diplomacy elsewhere. Anti- drug drive have no future if they do not come into But sadly, in Nepal’s case, its external dependency, not only on I am a 21 year old college student. I the fold of democracy. Otherwise, they economic matters but also on issues which are largely related to was a drug addict and I greatly will simply remain terrorists. domestic policies, is on the increase. Nepali actors, both state and Janak Gurung, non-state, have not even tried to come together around the policy benefited from the counseling I got Kalimati, Kathmandu and practices of self-reliance. from some rehab centers. Not all of In fact, civil society and NGOs have quite often acted in a them were good. Most did not have manner that exhibits their bias and politically compromising nature the required knowledge and skill to run Shameful even on human rights, principles of equality before law, fair trial such centers, but some of them Nepali politicians have not changed. and basic values of democracy. Despite their exemplary role in re- definitely helped me. The way the Maoist leaders have been establishing democracy after the king’s takeover, they have of late I and some of my friends had found behaving also shows that they are no acted more like blind allies of certain political parties. This has the regular column by Ragina Shah in different from leaders like GP Koirala resulted in the loss of their credibility. your paper very useful. Has the and Madhav K. Nepal. As your editorial Successive governments have failed to regulate the funding to NGOs and civil society by the international community. The level of column stopped? With drug use suggests, the past one year, despite corruption and lack of transparency in their businesses, including growing at an alarming rate in Nepal’s the hope it contained has been recruitment in these bodies (of course, with some notable urban as well as rural areas, an bungled. This is a shame for the exceptions) is as rampant as it is in the government. Some of the awareness campaign by the media country. A message will go around the NGOs, trusted recipients of reputed international donors, have about dangers of drug use and world that Nepalis are not capable of almost taken the shape of family owned enterprises. In some councelling for the drug users will go a managing their internal affairs without other cases, their affiliations to certain political parties are well long way in motivating youths in the assistance from outside. And any established. campaign. I think this is something the assistance does not come without With political awareness on the increase, people are as critical growing number of FM stations also should take up. strings attached. of these practices in the NGO sector as they have been of the Nilesh Shrestha It rightly suggests that the way to move forward is by government. Moreover, this is likely to bring the international community, mainly the donors in added controversy in Nepal. Civil Dilli Bazar, Kathmandu implementing some of the key provisions of the Comprehen- society and major NGOs in the capital as well as urban Nepal are sive Peace Agreement (CPA). Maoists have been looting and part of the social and political elites who have been the beneficiary Democrats or terrorists? capturing more properties of the ordinary people as well as of culture of impunity; something that the international bodies have Siddhartha Thapa’s articles at times created an impression activists and leaders of its rival political parties. time and again said should be ended. that he is biased against the Maoists and that he has a political There are reports from Nawalparasi, Dang, Nepalgunj, In fact, UNMIN with its large presence now has become an agenda. But with political developments take place in the Makwanpur and Hetaunda to substantiate these facts. The object of criticism for its having practiced policy of ‘discrimination’ government, especially the Home Minister is directly aiding brazenly. In the name of inclusive politics, it has rejected right away country, now it has become more evident that Maoists want neither democracy nor peace, and it was wrong on the part of and abetting the Maoists to carry on their campaign in clear some deserving candidates against many vacancies just because violation of the peace agreement. We cannot ensure that they belong to certain castes. UNMIN adopting a policy of positive the government, especially the leaders of the coalition, not to peace is established if the rule of law is suppressed by the discrimination is understandable as well as welcome, but its have detected the Maoists’ real motive. Their entry to parlia- disqualifying people purely on caste basis may have the potential ment and the government earlier was purely tactical to destroy government. This is something the Maoists and the govern- of triggering fresh social unrest. These are some of the attitudes the system from within and derive maximum political advantage ment must understand. and realities that need to be addressed. out of the resultant confusion, chaos and erosion of institutions. Sudan Sharma Accountability and transparency are basic features of democ- Thapa deserves congratulations for having detected the Anam Nagar, Kathmandu racy. We cannot have a meaningful and effective democracy and real motives of the Maoists at an early stage. Having said this, government without these; but honest, transparent and account- Maoists remain a challenge to the country and the governing able NGOs and civil society can enormously contribute to realising Readers, your reactions, criticisms, comments, that kind of democracy which is the best guarantee to the Nepali leaders since the peace process will not succeed if they are suggestions are most welcome. Please address it to: people deciding their country’s fate. ä not given due importance. They need to be motivated and [email protected] encouraged in the peace process and clearly told that they

Spiritual Corner

Kahlil Gibran was a poet, philosopher and waked again — and she was a blade of grass. stone or tend the loom? Who can separate whose windows are from dawn to dawn. artist. He was born in Lebanon, and is And when it was autumn and her winter his faith from his actions, or his belief from Your daily life is your temple and your considered to be one of the greatest Arabic sleep was upon her, and above her through all his occupations? Who can spread his hours religion. Whenever you enter into it take with prophets. Kahlil’s most famous work is his the air the leaves were falling, she muttered to before him, saying, “This for God and this you your all. Take the plough and the forge short book, The Prophet. In 1895 Gibran and herself, “O these autumn leaves! They make for myself; This for my soul, and this other and the mallet and the lute - the things you his family moved to the US where he lived until such a noise! They scatter all my winter for my body?” have fashioned in necessity or for delight. For his death in 1931 dreams.” All your hours are wings that beat through in revery you cannot rise above your space from self to self. He who wears his achievements nor fall lower than your failures. Kahlil’s poems: Religion morality but as his best garment And take with you all men. And an old priest said, were better naked. The wind For in adoration you cannot fly higher than A blade of grass “Speak to us of Religion.” And and the sun will tear no holes in their hopes nor humble yourself lower than Said a blade of grass to an autumn leaf, he said: Have I spoken this his skin. And he who defines his their despair. And if you would know God be “You make such a noise falling! You scatter all day of aught else? Is not conduct by ethics imprisons his not therefore a solver of riddles. Rather look my winter dreams.” Said the leaf indignant, religion all deeds and all song-bird in a cage. The freest about you and you shall see Him playing with “Low-born and low-dwelling! Songless, reflection. And that which is song comes not through bars your children. And look into space; you shall peevish thing! You live not in the upper air and neither deed nor reflection, and wires. And he to whom see Him walking in the cloud, outstretching you cannot tell the sound of singing.” but a wonder and a surprise worshipping is a window, to His arms in the lightning and descending in Then the autumn leaf lay down upon the ever springing in the soul, open but also to shut, has not rain. You shall see Him smiling in flowers, then earth and slept. And when spring came she even while the hands hew the yet visited the house of his soul rising and waving His hands in trees. ä Debating Development 3-9 Dec, 2007 5

UNMIN’s role in Nepal is not to highlight militarisation, but to work ä Yubaraj Ghimire towards demilitarisation…

The government has rightly recom- likely to be announced very soon, mended extension of UNMIN’s are still very remote. The restora- (United Nations Mission to Nepal) tion of law and order and total tenure, initially for a period of six impunity, that Maoist groups, months, beyond its current term that especially the Young Communist ends on January 22; all in the hope League (YCL) enjoy, are issues that that peace process will move ahead need to be urgently addressed as in the desired direction. pre-condition for elections. And the government and the Maoists also Key political actors, mainly the UNMIN must begin implementing at least Prime Minister and the Maoist some of the provisions of the CPA leadership, have come in for sharp to begin with. criticism for their not having and the peace process implemented crucial provisions of the They include formation of a high- Comprehensive Peace Agreement powered commission to recommend (CPA). Moreover, frequent change the mode and model of devolution of of the goal posts by the Maoists established norms and practice in That was the occasion when positive. In fact, this is an issue that power and appropriate electoral setting newer pre-conditions for areas of conflict, and therefore, Maoist combatants used their arms UNMIN would require to explain model as there seems to be a holding elections to the constituent would not require a separate code for a ceremonial purpose, clearly sooner than later. stalemate over the issue, besides assembly (CA) – such as the of conduct. But with some aberra- forbidden by the peace agreement. forming a body to investigate the demand for a proportional represen- tions in that, it is perhaps time that Gen Eric's controversial presence Since key political actors at home whereabouts of the disappeared tation (PR) system of election and UNMIN works out some regulatory follows Prime Minister GP Koirala's had no expertise or visible ability to from both sides, and another body abolition of the monarchy right away, measures for its staff and members disapproval of UNMIN Chief Ian take the peace process forward, it to enforce return of property and now reintegration of their as well. Martin's meeting with some Terai was definitely justified to get a confiscated by the Maoists during guerrillas in the Nepal army; has leaders waging armed struggle. Gen. neutral world body like UN as a the period. threatened the seven party unity, The presence of the Norwegian Eric's conduct has also been facilitator. But once its neutrality or which is definite to have a bearing in General, Eric during anniversary questioned by the government. lack of it becomes an issue of UNMIN can obviously exercise its the peace process. celebrations of the 7th battalion of debate or doubt, its role cannot be moral strength on the two sides, as People's Liberation Army in Chitwan It is surprising to see how the as effective as envisaged. proper electoral atmosphere will not How much will an external recently as the chief guest is an government was duped into airing A neutral and yet an effective be established without all that assistance including that from the UN issue that has not been taken very such a programme on a govern- UNMIN can exert more moral happening. The demands for review be of use in taking the peace process kindly by the authorities in the ment owned TV network even pressure on the parties in the of electoral model or that of the forward and holding elections on a government. Those knowing the when the portfolio of the Communi- conflict if and when they err. In fact, integration of Maoist combatants in new schedule, if the key internal norms of diplomacy say it goes cation Ministry remains vacant after that will be the challenge before the the army will be much easier, if the actors’ intentions and ability, are against the basic principle of UNMIN the Maoist minister submitted his UNMIN during its extended new parties in the conflict give proof of under increasing doubts both at presence in Nepal since its role is resignation some months ago. The tenure. their good behaviour and seriousness home and abroad? not to highlight militarisation, but to event with the General wearing the of purpose. work towards demilitarisation and UN's blue beret was highlighted by The chances of elections taking Yet, Nepal's key actors and decommissioning to enhance the the media and the reaction it has place in a free and fair atmosphere, The way Maoists put forward the UNMIN are one in their inference peace process. generated so far is not at all even in the new deadline that is demands for Republic Nepal and PR that the seven party unity is the pre- system as pre-condition for elections condition for success of the peace to the CA which effectively stalled the process. But that alone will not be electoral process has been taken by enough. To begin with, the signato- some, as their admitting lack of mass ries to the conflict have to begin support even before facing the implementing key provisions of the electorate. CPA as a proof that they are serious about taking the peace process to its Should the democratic or logical end, as well as creating an electoral process be a casualty for a atmosphere conducive to polls long time to come in Nepal if the to the CA. Maoists back out of it? It is equally important for Maoists to ponder: do They also need to convince they have a future as a political people that they will behave in party if they shun people and conformity with the code of conduct contemplate taking up guns? But signed by both sides. It was also these political theories need to be hoped that UNMIN, which has been discouraged for once and all. In assigned with the task of managing other words, Maoists need to be arms, armies of the state and the encouraged to take the CPA and Maoists, and observing CA polls; peace process to its logical would conduct itself as per the conclusion. ä

Nepal's key UNMIN can obvi- actors and ously exercise UNMIN are one its moral in their infer- strength on the ence that the two sides, as seven party proper electoral unity is the pre- atmosphere will condition for not be estab- success of the lished without all peace process. that happening. newsfront 6 3-9 Dec, 2007 Debating Development

There has always been a dearth of means all those who ruled or are press coverage and articles on Dalit ruling are responsible for the issues. Out of the few, many inhumane practice. Even the Maoist published opinion pieces on Dalits party that stayed in power briefly make one ponder over who might be Who is the cannot escape the blame. Everybody the actual culprit behind the current is cognisant of this reality. plight of the so-called untouchables. Some highlight the importance of This understanding makes it clear ending intra-Dalit hierarchy and that those so-called intellectuals who segregation first, as a precondition for real culprit? recommend an end to the intra- doing away with caste-based community hierarchy within Dalits as discrimination. To validate their a way of liberating them are simply arguments, the authors usually cite not telling the truth. They are simply examples of Dalits discriminating trying to evade the real issue and against Dalits much the same way as They are recommending medical cure for the limbs covertly endorse the inhumane non-Dalits treat them. practice. They are recommending despite knowing that the real illness is in the head. medical cure for the limbs despite Though it is undeniable that Dalits knowing that the real illness is in the are not a monolithic group and there head. is intra-Dalit hierarchy, not all would Nepal that does not have its internal some hopes but it also proved to be a accept the mea culpa view. Indeed hierarchy. Newars are an obvious democratic façade. The party rulers This is such a plain fact but even they would be in a much better example. Different clans of Bahuns promised a lot, made some changes some Dalit activists and leaders position to get organised and rise consider themselves higher than to the constitution terminating caste appear to be confused. No doubt, the against the discriminatory practices other Bahuns. So, it is simply not true based discriminations on paper, but real culprit is the state. The real and traditions if they were not that only Dalits are divided along a did nothing significant to discourage target should be the state. Of course, ä Uday Pariyar culturally and ritually divided. In an hierarchical line. History also shows it the state-sponsored discriminatory intra-Dalit hierarchy should be ideal world it would be a perfect thing was not Dalits who created the practices. challenged but it won’t make much to do. And there are many Dalit rights divisions amongst themselves. the Hindu religion prescribed the impact unless the very nature of the activists who have been advocating Clearly, this was a product of a divide caste hierarchy and the state of Even now there are many cases of state is transferred. Simply altering for the same. and rule strategy adopted by the so- Nepal applied it over the centuries. police refusing to register the cases the system of governance will not called high castes over centuries to Those who did not follow the caste on untouchability issues. Dalits are mean anything for the suffering But the main question is – is intra- ensure that those at the bottom of the rules would be heavily penalised and discriminated even at homes of the masses, as evidenced by history. Dalit hierarchy the absolute cause social strata never unite for their tortured. For instance, if any member government ministers and senior behind the perpetuation of the evil common cause. of Dalit community was found reading administrators. Dalits across the The state should be forced to shed practice? Would Dalits be free from books during the Rana regime, his country continue to be victimised. all the traditional caste-based domination had there been no Do we then blame all high castes? If eyes would be destroyed. If he heard Nobody is bothered about such a principles and practices. The rulers division within Dalits? Or are the we hold this perception we would have any sacred mantras, molten lead serious abuse of human rights and should be made to stop discriminating intellectuals and writers simply to point our fingers at every member would be poured into his ears. attack on civil liberty. In essence, against Dalits inside their homes and projecting the issue in such a way that of the Bahun and Chhetri communi- there is not much change. communities. Nobody working for the Dalits themselves can be blamed for ties, including the impoverished and The Malla rulers started the strict government should be allowed to their suffering? Could it be a part of undernourished ones living in remotest implementation of Manubad and the On the surface, we could blame all practice untouchability. Only then their implicit attempts to eschew parts of Humla, Jumla and Kalikot Shahs, Ranas and Panchayati Rajas those who discriminate against a would we begin to see some changes Dalit’s freedom? districts. Is this a realistic view? did their level best to ensure the certain segment of population on the in the perceptions and practice of the practice continued. The rise of basis of their caste background. But grassroots people. In reality, there is no community in History is witness to the fact that multiparty system in 1990 raised clearly the state is the main culprit. It ([email protected]) Chain of suffering Of the 70,000 people in Nepal living with HIV/AIDS, 4000 are children…

ä Manish Gautam increasing numbers of orphans will grow up without parental care and love, deprived of Rita (name changed), 25, is a mother of a their basic rights to shelter, food, health and five year old child. Both the mother and the education. child are infected with HIV. Rita was infected by her husband, a migrant worker. Rita, who HIV/AIDS is not a distant affliction in sub is now a widow, spent all she owned on the Saharan African regions but a rising scourge treatment of her husband who died a year in Nepal, which is creating enormous toll on ago. Now she earns her living by selling psycho-social, economic conditions of the fruits. “If I reveal my HIV status, it will mean afflicted families. There are many cases the end of my livelihood. I will be ruined. And especially in far west region of Nepal, where I and my little kid will face severe stigma and children drop out from school either because discrimination.” they could not pay the school fees or because they now have to support their family. This is the representative story of HIV infected Nepali women today; whose prime And increasing numbers of elderly couples worry is their kids’ future. The former UN take care of their grandchildren since they lost General Secretary Kofi Annan once said that their sons and daughter in-laws to AIDS. The the saddest part of HIV infection is that it rate at which the housewives of migrating passes down from parents to their children. populations are being infected with HIV virus is increasing alarmingly. Many new born HIV According to UNICEF, HIV infection infected die because it did not have access to

among Nepali children is rising alarmingly. newsfront pediatric ARV. These are the real but untold The HIV/AIDS Project Officer of UNICEF, stories of HIV/AIDS in Nepal. What kind of Nepal - Sara Beysolow Nayanti disclosed half of all the new HIV infections. their parents, the loss impacts negatively on future does it warrant for the country? that approximately 4,000 children in Nepal With the estimated 70,000 people living with family structures and ends up requiring children are infected with HIV. UNICEF, FHI and HIV in Nepal, what will be its impact on children? to become caretakers and breadwinners of the AIDS results in discrimination, impoverish- National Association of PLWHA in Nepal; to This is a serious concern which has not yet been family. ment, hunger and the chain of suffering passes achieve universal access for children and addressed. down from generation to generation. AIDS their families to HIV prevention, treatment, On the eve of this year’s World AIDS Day, orphans, as the situation stands now, will not care and support; launched UNCAAN The gravest long-term impact of the HIV/ Rajiv Kafle, President of National Association of receive love and support from their families and partnership in 29 Nov, 2007. AIDS crisis will fall on children in many ways. PLWHA in Nepal (NAPN) said, “New infection communities. HIV/AIDS is thus fast breaking the The vulnerability of children of AIDS affected rates of HIV are rising alarmingly and deaths chain of family support, love, knowledge transfer Sadly, we do not know who these 4,000 parents start well before the death of their related to AIDS are increasing every year in and skill sharing between generations in Nepal. children are, where and how they live. It has parents. Besides the tremendous emotional Nepal.” This means as the number of adults This issue demands urgent attention and well been said that in Nepal children account for trauma they face when they suffer the deaths of dying of AIDS rises over the next decades, thought out actions. ä Interview 3-9 Dec, 2007 7 Whatever arises, do not reject or grasp it. Look at it as wisps of clouds passing by on the screen of your awareness. Going beyond suffering

Jikusan, 61 years old, is a to treat the production of mind yourself improve step by step. Being with an authentic That very day, I went and I Enlightenment is an overused, Zen master who has been as illusions without building on Sitting in Zazen for 40 minutes teacher, even if you do not heard Sridhar Rana Guru ambiguous word. practicing for the past 20 it and without rejecting it, daily without moving the body, communicate with him, is an talking. It was like dawning of years. He shared his experi- staying in the present moment with discipline, gradually experience that cannot be light in the darkness of my Do you consider yourself ences and knowledge of Zen that change from one instant makes you realise that the articulated, as I’ve experienced. soul. And I started my practice enlightened? meditation with Sushma to another. Slowly, you will find body drops and the mental of Zen. After a few years, I If somebody says he/she is Amatya recently. your view of your life begins to productions also loses its How has meditation went to Japan on an assign- enlightened, most probably, change and the quality of life strength. Once the mind and changed you? ment to cover a Zen monas- the person is not. So I will say What is Zen? improves. After you finish the body drops, you realise that It changed my life in such an tery for a few days. The days no (laughing heartily). Zen means meditation in meditation, move your body the real self is pure bliss, it has extraordinary way. I was in changed into weeks and Japanese. Zazen means slightly from side to side, from always been there and will habit of identifying with my months and years. I could not Why do you like Nepal so sitting meditation and Satori, back to front, relax for a while always be. But even practicing mind; and used to be happy, leave. I stayed there for ten much? enlightenment. and then get up; and use the for five minutes daily can have sad, bored or exuberant. Then years. Life changed so much So many wise people have practice of staying in the positive effects on you. with practice I learned that for me, I was smiling for one lived in the country and this What would one gain by moment and viewing things as anywhere I am, whatever is whole year, and then I got gives a very nice feeling to this meditating? they are, in your daily life. How important is it to have happening, it’s fine, it’s perfect. used to it. Life was so perfect. place. You gain peace of mind and a teacher to guide you? I used to be a photographer, Then I realised I had to do go beyond suffering, no matter Did Shakyamuni Buddha You can start practicing on lived for many years in London, something for others too who Why do some people see the circumstances and the teach Zen meditation? your own but sooner or later traveled a lot. Everything was are suffering and share the the nature of mind quickly environment you are in. Yes, he did. There is you will need to contact a going well, as I wanted it to but knowledge with them. In my and others do not? historical evidence that it has teacher to guide you. There I realised that I wasn’t getting country, Chile, there is I’ll never know why in some How does one practice it? been passed down through a are many things that could any satisfaction. Then I started nowhere you can get any such people it just clicks and in some, In Zen, posture is very line of lineage masters. The arise, such as very nice feelings reading books about the teaching. I went there and even after years of practicing it important. Select a place that Buddha sat for seven days or the opposite and a teacher wisdom of the east. Reading began teaching and many still does not. It has nothing to is clean, quiet, not too hot or under a tree, without sleep or can tell you how to handle it, wasn’t enough. I began people came. Now we will do with age, gender, studies, too cold; sit facing a wall to food and attained enlighten- among other things. However searching in India and then soon be having a monastery, intellect or whatsoever. reduce distractions for the ment on the eighth day. We try grand an experience might be came to Kathmandu to learn in a quiet place on top of a hill, Sometimes people, in whom senses. Sit on a cushion that and copy that in our monas- that arises out of meditation, it Hatha yoga. During that time, I which should be ready in April. you think change is impossible, allows your knees to press on tery in Chile - like I used to in is important to let it go without heard that somebody was In the meantime, I’m using the change overnight. We used to the floor. Cross your legs in the monastery in Japan where wanting to experience it again. giving talks on Zen nearby. time to travel around in places go into prisons to teach and lotus or half lotus position or life was highly disciplined - by of pilgrimage. I’m so happy to have seen amazing changes in the easy cross legged position practicing meditation for seven be able to meet Sridhar Guru some prisoners. They reported without one leg pressing on days in a row on the first week again whom I consider to be that they never felt so free in the other. Rest your hands in of every month. But of course, my primordial teacher. their lives, while in reality they cosmic mudra, the left finger under a roof, on comfortable are in a prison! I recall a lady on the right and tips of thumbs seats, with food and sleep. But How can everything be prisoner saying she is thankful touching each other, in a the Buddha sat for a week, in perfect with so much that she was put in prison for straight line. Let the lower the same meditating posture, suffering around you? she said otherwise; she would abdomen relax forward which without moving. The illusion that you are never have encountered this keeps your back erect; pull separate from others causes this teaching. However, whether it shoulders back gently, allowing How does one take suffering. As long as we believe clicks or not, it is important just ears to fall in line with shoulders. meditation into daily life? that we are separate from others to keep on practicing. Stretch the top of the head Taking it into daily life is and hold on to our sense of I towards the ceiling, keeping chin more difficult as there are ness, as long as there is that Why is Zen not so much slightly tucked in as if to create a more distractions out there. division, suffering will be there. heard of? double chin. Breathe with This is meditation in action. The moment you see that all are Though Zen has been very abdomen, waist down. Letting go, as events come one, you see perfect harmony open to everybody, it has been Keep eyes half closed, open and go, as you speak, as you and things are just as they are contained within small circles, just enough for the light to get act, centering in the moment, meant to be. Then you begin to perhaps because it is quite strict. in, looking about a meter is how you do it. Every understand all the chaos, And there are obstacles that ahead. If you close your eyes, it moment is changing all the destruction you see taking place arises that many people cannot is easy to get lost in the jungle time and once you learn to let around you. Destruction goes face – like physical aches and of thoughts. Allowing light in go and observe each change hand in hand with creation. pains that arise initially. We all helps you stay in the here and as it happens, without trying to get attacked by demons or now, just as it is, without letting run away from it or without Why is it so difficult to seduced by dancers – just as the thoughts of past or present clinging to it, you are better live in the present? the Buddha was while distract you. Focus on the able to handle life as it comes. Because of bad habits, meditating, but it’s just the mind. Hara, the area in your Things that used to make you basically due to ignorance. As If you persevere, one day you abdomen, four finger down suffer a lot earlier will cease to we speak, the moment is will see mind face to face and from your navel, far from the have any effect on you. Similar already gone, replaced by will realise that your mind has head where there are so many things happen and yet you another. Keeping yourself been keeping you a prisoner; distractions; and settle in the don’t even notice it. centered in the here and now is and then it will fall off. It will Hara. Whatever arises, do not Each small step leads you the key to be free of suffering. cease to have any effect on you. reject or grasp it. Look at it as towards the goal. You develop It is so simple. Perhaps wisps of clouds passing by on the attitude of letting go, while because it is so simple, people How can householders/ the screen of your awareness. remaining in the present and do not understand it. busy people practice Zen? Centering on Hara, watch while doing it, you will still have The same way. Set aside a your breath coming in and your memories and will have How does one become little time for practice everyday going out and begin counting. your plans but that will not compassionate? and continue with meditation in Count one for every cycle of interfere with your present. Compassion begins to flow action the rest of the time. Keep breath, coming in and going Instead you will be able to naturally the moment you focusing in the centre, whatever out, till ten. Then, start all over handle your memories and realise that we all are a big arises, just observe it. Initially, you again from one. Thoughts will plans in a better way by being body of light that encompasses may not be able to observe continue to arise and here and now. everything in the world. whatever arises. Even if you disappear. Just look at it as When you are angry, react, once it passes, go back to illusions and they will start observe it and just let it go; Can supreme enlighten- the centre and start again. Every losing their grip on you and since anger never helped ment be achieved effort counts. It is not wasted. begin to disappear. anybody. It’s amazing how with through Zen? (www.elzendo.cl) With practice, you can learn practice you can watch I suppose so (laughing). ([email protected]) 8 3-9 Dec, 2007 Opinion

their businesses are established. The Nepali public has a right know whether the bylaws and regulations create serious bottlenecks, as asserted by the dealers, or check Riding against the tide adulteration of fuel, as claimed by the government agency, since the consumer is impacted either way. The current strike mounted by the association of petroleum dealers, and now supported by The current situation is responsible petroleum transporters, defies all logic. for lack of interest of the foreign investors in Nepal when they can find attractive investment opportunities on either side of Nepal in South Asia. It As if the misplaced actions of the innovate, and tourism sector lacking presence of these groups not only has also added to the existing owes political leaders of the parties in necessary infrastructure to attract makes doing business in Nepal of the citizens who, in spite of paying parliament and government were tourists. expensive but also unworkable at exorbitant prices for basic commodi- not enough, the private sector which A peculiar trend seems to be times when there is a clear conflict of ties, are always at the mercy of is supposed to rescue the country taking place in Nepal that is bound to interest. importers and distributors. Nepal through ingenuity and farsighted- destroy whatever little Nepal has The current strike mounted by the needs to make extra effort to make ness in troubled times seems to be ä Binod P.Bista progressed in following the path of association of petroleum dealers, and up for its several shortcomings such simply following the mindset of our industrialisation. Every sector has now supported by petroleum as lack of state of the art in communi- present leaders. This behavior is come up with umbrella organisations, transporters, defies all logic. Why are cation, superb infrastructure in plant reflected in almost all sectors and from foreign companies and obtaining often named as ‘federation of ...,’ the petroleum dealers against the locations and distribution centers, industry categories. If this were to concession from the government. It is which appear to be serving the quality bylaws and sellers’ regulations among others. Not to mention of continue any further, Nepal would really a pity to find the Nepali private interest of a special group/s rather of 2007? Why should they be Nepal’s geo-physical handicap as a have no space left for itself to spring sector wanting in productivity as well as than the profession. So far, the worst concerned with direct supply to land-locked country. back to life at the right time. Simply efficiency. Blaming the open border for part even in the so-called unions (also industries by the Nepal oil corpora- Exemption on taxes and other put, the Nepali private sector seems all ills of the manufacturing companies federations) is lack of understanding tion? The government, it appears, is government duties alone is not to be going against the standard has remained a standard excuse. of collective bargaining concept and trying to meet its obligations to the enough to attract and sustain foreign norms set for doing business in Government of Nepal, by its inaction its process. industries for smooth supply of direct investment. Nepali private today’s world under globalisation and lack of initiative, shares equal blame Moreover, from two distinct groups, necessary raw materials used in the sector can help the government by and against the terms of Nepal’s for this plight of Nepali private sector each aligned to Nepali congress and production process. identifying some select industries that membership in the World Trade when full competition in international Nepal Communist Party-United Is there no responsibility of the can either find a ready market in the Organisation (WTO). markets sets in within three years time. Marxist Leninist, another significant private sector to the local individual two booming economies or compete Instead of preparing itself during Competitive and comparative advantage and perhaps most effective group consumers? At a time of increasing with ease in the international markets. the grace period obtained by Nepal in goods and services, however small, aligned to Maoists has been added in awareness of corporate social Public-private partnership seems to as a member of least developed must be carefully explored by the Nepali every sphere. Be it education, trade, responsibility, the Nepali private be the only recourse for a country like countries while becoming a member private sector with full support from the manufacturing, transport or service, sector does not even seem to Nepal that is yet to develop the of WTO, almost more than half of government. Nepal cannot survive as a these groups are ever active to extract understand the basic of doing private sector into a strong, healthy the time is lost by the Nepali private healthy nation on the strength of a few the benefit from the government as business: their first responsibility is to and capable force to take on the sector in trying to secure protection handicrafts that never seem to well as private sector. The very serve the people of the locality where emerging business challenges. ä

ä Roop Joshi example of what civil society has been driven to, due to, in this It is traditional for us Nepalis to case, the shocking apathy of the gather at the local “chiya pasal” Home Ministry and the police (tea shop) and share views. It is Tea chat and act regarding finding and punishing in this spirit of conviviality that this It is time we, the common Nepali citizens, speak out against mindless the perpetrators who kidnapped piece is written. The CA and tortured doctors from the elections have been postponed terrorism with meaningful actions. Nobel Medical College. yet again, journalists are being The Nepali population must not dug up from unmarked graves, as we sit comfortably and sip our tea. rainbow coalition of professionals long as this climate of fear persists, the be allowed to be held hostage to doctors are being thrashed, We - meaning the educated bear testimony to the fact that we future of Nepali democracy is non- selfish political interests. If the business houses are being supposedly aware elite - are appar- have had enough. existent. It is time we, the common authorities are incapable of solicited for ‘voluntary donations’, ently unable to make any difference. Doctors, lawyers, journalists, Nepali citizens, speak out against performing their duties, then echoes of Mao’s Red Guards We complain, criticise and curse. The teachers, businessmen, human rights mindless terrorism with meaningful matters have to be taken into our ring out daily and Jimmy Carter tea or coffee seems to go down better advocates, youth, women have joined actions. We have seen how guns can own hands. It is also heartening to has come and gone once again as we righteously proclaim half-baked hands to proclaim “enough is achieve political power, how bandhs see the increasing number of presuming to cure Nepal’s ills. solutions to the country’s woes. We enough”. We must be allowed to get can debilitate society. Should we let stories in the daily press highlighting The Comprehensive Peace resort to our proverbial complacency on with productive lives – lives without these tactics be the monopoly of the the present dismal state of affairs. Accord (CPA) has been and take umbrage in the belief that fear. All of us have been aware over few? Let us remember that we all As the guardian of free speech, this overtaken by events, the whatever will be, will be – it is, after all, the past months how steeply law and have the democratic right to protest role of the media cannot be coalition government is partici- written in the stars. order is deteriorating. The Home this invasion of our personal security – underestimated. The martyrdom of pating in a power-crazed orgy of Let us remember that ‘we’ are Ministry pays lip service to improving and we, the real People are the Birendra Sah cannot be forgotten. accusations and counter- among the Nepali people for whom this situation and the police have majority. We the people have been taken accusations, the king and the democracy is meant. It is our right, if proved ineffective. The army’s hands We expect that the professional for granted and fooled long enough. prime minister compete to serve we are citizens of a democracy, to are tied by their confinement to the organisations will now unite in a Our leaders must start becoming the living goddess, temples have demand accountability from our political barracks. So who is going to improve strong but non-violent campaign with accountable to us immediately. So been attacked by hooligans, we leaders. They must follow our the law and order situation? Maybe clear objectives to right the wrongs the next time any of us are in a tea live in a limbo between a republic aspirations and dreams, not theirs. It is we have to resort to mercenaries or that have been done to this country in shop chatting with friends or and a monarchy in a ‘democracy’ heartening to see recent efforts by external security forces. The latter recent times. The euphoria of “Jana strangers, let us exchange views on governed by the unelected, professional groups towards this end. has an ominous ring to it, doesn’t it? Andolan II” has long given way to current affairs but with an eye to act UNMIN is seeking extension to The sufferings of the doctors at the The fact of the matter is that without disappointment, disgust and even on the tyranny of the few. We are, further prolong its impotence - Nobel Medical College in Biratnagar law and order there is no democracy. depression. The current threat by after all, supposed to be living in a no dearth of topics to talk about and the sit-ins at Singha Durbar by a Let us not fool ourselves about this. As doctors to hit the streets is a stellar democracy. ä From the region 3-9 Dec, 2007 9 Musharraf sliences critics President Musharraf has abruptly is that Washington had begun to poorly anyway. There was, of course, army chief and president, Musharraf resigned as army chief, but what are hedge its bets by secretly beginning the embarrassment of suspension, has strengthened the military’s clout the likely consequences now? to deal with some Musharraf but what are such passing sentiments in Pakistan politics, yet without JUST when everything seemed to opponents, should he remain an to seasoned practitioners of realpolitik denting Taliban influence. He claims be collapsing in on him, Pakistan’s intransigent lost cause. like Musharraf? Even Britain’s position to have strengthened the essence of Pervez Musharraf pulled out some Now Musharraf has placated the on Pakistan within the Common- democracy in the country, so he must key compromises from his military United States and the PPP, while also wealth seemed negotiable. London’s have done the opposite from and presidential hats. dividing the domestic opposition. This foreign policy being only a shadow of expediency rather than inclination. He resigned his army chief position, leaves him enough space to Washington’s, it could never have By holding on to the army post until announced emergency rule will end on concentrate on outflanking his chief reconciled itself with a firm “no” to the eve of being sworn in for a new Dec 16, and said elections would be unconditional rival, former premier continued Musharraf rule. presidential term, he has confirmed held in January as planned. Suddenly, Nawaz Sharif, and the Pakistan Thus much of the vocal anti- the continued importance of military his critics in Benazir Bhutto’s People’s Muslim League (N), since smaller Musharraf rhetoric is muted over the dominance in government. To have Progressive Party (PPP) and in opposition parties, the general public, technicalities of office as he always done so even after heavy domestic Washington quietened down. NGOs and the legal community saw those grievances to be. And the and international pressure under- Originally Musharraf had wanted to remain unorganised. West continues with its Musharraf scores the primacy of the principle. renew his presidency first, then step Benazir’s rhetoric is still critical of policy in place of a Pakistan policy, as Then by promoting ISI (Inter- down from the military if at all, and all Musharraf, but since he is now less Commonwealth’s suspension of Senator Joe Biden put it succinctly. Services Intelligence) chief Gen in his own time. But now he has done unacceptable to the West she can Pakistan’s membership the week Musharraf’s style of “holding down Ashfaq Kayani to the post of Chief of what his PPP and US detractors had return to the prospect of a possible before. This was what the Common- the patient” to administer treatment Army Staff, Musharraf further wanted: quit the army first, then alliance between the PPP and his wealth felt it had to do, but the required democracy and democrats showed a comfortable collusion renew the presidency, and lift the Pakistan Muslim League (Q). She is symbolic gesture did not make to hold their breath, and not only from between government and military emergency before the January usually a reliable barometer of Musharraf feel he had to do anything the stink. As storm clouds of instability intelligence. This could help the elections without postponement. Pakistan politics, and the weather in particular. gather and spread in the North-West government fight the Taliban better, This may seem like gratitude to his vane part is sensitive to where the The historical fraternity had long Frontier Province, Punjab and but given their mutual familiarity it generous (US$10bil and counting) wind is blowing. been strong on pious pronounce- Baluchistan, this style also reveals could also help the Taliban elude patron for a role in an avowed “war But then some things had already ments and little else, at whose Games certain propensities. capture better. on terrorism.” But the larger reason been put in motion, like the last year the Pakistani team had fared After eight years in office as both (BUNN NAGARA in Malaysia Star) No agreement yet No break for coup- on Iran sanctions weary Philippines The UN Security Council is considering imposing a third round Since Gloria Macapagal Arroyo The president has also been the mass uprisings that led to the of sanctions on Iran over its became president of the Philippines accused of bribing lawmakers and removal of two past presidents. nuclear programme and may seven years ago, she has crushed local officials to ensure their support But the people did not come and reach an agreement within weeks. three major coup plots to overthrow against a new impeachment government troops, instead of While the closed-door talks on her. In between the foiled coup bids, complaint, which her allies in the sympathizing with them, stormed the Saturday produced no firm the 60-year-old economist has also House of Representatives blocked hotel to end the siege, firing teargas decision, an unnamed official was defeated three impeachment after one week of deliberations. and warning shots and ramming an reported as saying a compromise complaints over allegations of In 2003, junior officers launched a armoured personnel carrier into the text on a new resolution would corruption and electoral fraud, and failed mutiny against Arroyo amid lobby. soon be circulated. faced down a violent riot by loyal accusations she was condoning While authorities were still hunting “There are elements that allow supporters of her disgraced prede- rampant corruption in the military and down other suspects in the plot, us to think we will have a cessor. alleged state terrorism perpetrated by Arroyo was so confident the threat resolution in the short term,” he With one scandal after another top armed forces officials. had been put down that she said, adding he was “relatively Jalili said he defended Iran’s rights hounding her administration, Arroyo Three years later, she faced embarked on an eight-day trip to to nuclear technology at talks with has become so unpopular that coup another coup attempt triggered by Europe two days later. But De Vera optimistic” about having a the EU resolution in the next few weeks. rumours circulate in the country allegations she connived with a senior cautioned the government against US officials declined to comment The IAEA report found Iran was almost every month and pundits elections official to rig the 2004 letting its guard down. after the talks. Nicholas Burns, the co-operating, but not proactively, speculate on when the next attempt presidential vote. The accusations He said nobody could be sure that US undersecretary of state and making it likely that Britain, the to oust her would be. stemmed from publicized recordings Trillanes and his group had no America’s chief participant in the United States and France will While the government may have of telephone conversations between backing in the military, whose support negotiations, left France immedi- resume their push for sanctions. In quashed the latest challenge to her and the official. is critical to ensure the success of a ately afterwards. previous meetings, Russia and Arroyo’s presidency in just seven On November 29, detained mass uprising in the country. Talks were also held up as China, which have strong trade hours, the threats are expected to Senator Antonio Trillanes and a small “It is possible that it’s a waiting Sergei Kislyak, the Russian deputy ties with Iran, have agreed only to persist until her term ends in 2010. group of renegade soldiers took over game for the different forces within foreign minister who was the mildest of measures. Tehran Analysts warn that pervasive the Peninsula Hotel in Manila’s the military and the civilian bureau- scheduled to attend, was stuck in had promised to bring “new ideas” problems of poverty and corruption, a financial district of Makati to demand cracy,” he said. “They could be Canada because of snow and a to the table for the London talks political leadership perceived to be for Arroyo’s removal and the creation waiting for signals ... for the people to colleague attended in his place. but Cristina Gallach, Solana’s weak, dishonest and illegitimate, and of a new government. come in. They are maybe waiting for Saturday’s talks came a day after spokeswoman, said: “There was disgruntlement within the military are Trillanes and the other soldiers another opportunity to do it.” Javier Solana, the EU foreign not enough new in order not to be setting off the rebellions against the were already on trial for leading or The Philippines has endured more policy chief, met Saeed Jalili, Iran’s disappointed.” government. taking part in two previous attempts than a dozen coup plots since the nuclear negotiator. However, Jalili said on Saturday “The elements that allow for to oust Arroyo. ouster of late dictator Ferdinand Solana said the meeting in that Iran was not to blame for the military adventurisms and coups In a statement, the group warned Marcos in 1986, and most of the London had been “a disaster”. disappointment expressed by d’etat are going to be with us from that “a crisis of extreme proportions” leaders of these bids have been The US, Britain, China, France, Solana. now until 2010,” said Prospero De was confronting the Philippines, with hailed as heroes in the country. Russia and Germany agreed in “The fact is that we defended Vera, a professor at the University of “the economy, the rule of law and the With a nationwide survey showing September to delay sanctions the Iranian nation’s rights and the Philippines’ National College of moral order” lying in ruins. that 59 per cent of Filipinos think against Iran until the end of stressed fulfiling our duties and Public Administration. “Political, judicial and economic Arroyo should step down amid the November, pending reports on an that the Iranian nation will not “I don’t see any dramatic change power have been perverted to inflict corruption scandals and 25 per cent investigation by the UN nuclear accept anything that goes beyond that would make military adventurism and justify high crimes against the even supporting any means possible watchdog and a EU mediation the nuclear Non-Proliferation or coup attempts simply fade away Filipino people,” they said. “More and to achieve this, De Vera said the effort. Treaty,” he said. between now and 2010,” he added. more among our people no longer Peninsula siege could be just a They had decided that if the “If some people have become The latest plot came amid eat, while the idle rich and the corrupt portent of things to come. reports by the International Atomic disappointed because they cannot allegations that Arroyo, her husband live like kings.” “It bears watching,” he said. Energy Agency (IAEA) and Solana deprive Iran of its natural rights and a key political ally were involved “Minority rule has replaced majority “Maybe they are just testing how the did not show “a positive outcome”, then this is another matter,” he in a multimillion-dollar bribery to fast- rule,” they added. government responds to it, and they would agree on more told reporters after arriving back in track the implementation of a 329- Trillanes’ group called on the public maybe there is something more in sanctions against Iran and put it to Tehran. million-dollar telecommunications and the military to gather at the store for the coming months or years a vote in the security council. (Aljazeera.net) contract awarded to a Chinese firm Peninsula Hotel in support of their to come.” despite irregularities in the deal. action, apparently hoping to recreate (Earthtimes) 10 3-9 Dec, 2007 Perspective Waves in mind This is called habituation and is a good example of how the mind can block out what it doesn't want. äää Mahayogi Acharya Sridhar Rana Rinpoche average person were to sit in a place and a clicking sound was to be made Then we have the wavelengths states are not exactly the same. continuously he would hear the from 3.9 hertz to 0.1 hertz which is Meditation at theta or alpha waves is clicking sound and that would be called the delta waves which is the not the same as either hypnosis at registered in the EEG; but after some wavelength of deep sleep, lucid theta or alpha or hypnagogic and time the clicking sound would stop dreaming, and in this wavelength dream states at alpha and theta being registered. The person would there is increased immune function. waves. stop hearing the sound that is The HGH (Human Growth It must be understood that research measured by the EEG which stops Hormone) is released when the has distinguished these states; but how registering the sound. mind is in this state. This is probably they are differentiated is too technical It was found in Zen Masters in the reason why to go into an article Samadhi that their mind remained yogis who like this. Electro- open to all sounds and there was no practice going Marshland Flowers graphical difference habituation. No matter how long the into Samadhi like exists between the clicking continued monotonously, the Raja yogis and Zen masters made theta waves etc. in sound kept on registering in the mind Shamatha yogis ingressions into sleep and the of the Zen master as shown by the of Buddhism, theta waves; and rhythmical theta train EEG. This means the Zen master's seem to retain in Zen meditation mind is always open and does not their health and that deep hypnosis and the catalyptic close automatically based on youth for a and dream states theta waves of a conditioned reactions or Sanskaras. longer period also produce theta subject in deep On the other hand, the Raja yogi's than normal. hypnosis. Likewise mind blocked out the clicking sound Although I waves; it should differences exist in right from the beginning when in have been be understood that the alpha waves in Samadhi. These two EEG findings saying that both the hypnagogic point to the fact that what is called deep sleep and these states are stage just before Samadhi in Vipassyana type Samadhi not exactly the falling asleep and the meditation based on mindfulness are produce delta same. alpha waves seen in quite different from Samadhis based waves and the beginning of Zen on Shamatha type meditation like likewise Zen masters made meditation etc. difference between Buddhist sound like for example the rhythmic Raja yoga, Kundalini yogas etc. This ingressions into theta waves; and One interesting experiment done by mindfulness meditation and Raja clicking of an object, after some time. is what I have been distinguishing in that deep hypnosis and dream both the Japanese and Indian yoga Samadhi type of Hindu This is called habituation and is a this article. (To be continued) states also produce theta waves; it researchers on their subjects seems meditation. The average human mind good example of how the mind can (Sridhar Rinpoche is a Vajrayana should be understood that these worth mentioning here to see the key tends to block out any persistent block out what it doesn't want. If an Master) Art & society 3-9 Dec, 2007 11

SPECTRUM OF LIFE Poems from the fiber of my bones. Little Annapurnas

äää Yuyutsu RD Sharma

Your face, wears airs of a blossom Elegance of a dandelion majesty of a sunflower drowse of a blue mimosa your eyes have stolen fires from the Himalayan lightning your body has kissed moistened lips of clear creaks (Annapurna Poems) Brick factory workers covered in dust. Bungamati, Lalitpur, Nepal. äää By Sushma Amatya Walking in the Pokhara Bazaar or sauntering by the lakeside appears an epilogue to the countless journeys I have made in the HERITAGE SITE Annapurnas sanctuary. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, I’ve forgotten my digital camera back in Kathmandu. As if to mock me, the massive ranges of snow-laden Annapurnas emerge in a Save the magical site spotlessly clean air and continue to gaze at me all day long. A colossal mass of a cosmic figure Revered shrines since centuries have established the city as the city of temples. looms over the valley. Almost envious of the Pokhara people, I walk äää Pramesh Pradhan special occasions. Marvelous carved images in a reverie. The still moment of the ever- of Narasingha, Mahavishnu, royal chamber wavering mountain ranges staring at me for an Kathmandu Durbar square, a and museums make the courtyard a grand instant stretches into a glorious day. The face world heritage site, is rich in place to visit. The temple of Panch Mukhi of the mountain breaking into irresolute temples, monuments, Hanuman temple dedicated to monkey god tapestry of sunlight and rain, shadow and courtyards and gigantic images; all creating a Hanuman, a faithful assistant to Rama; is a shape. The clouds making and breaking the spectacular exhibition of medieval artistry. The spectacular display of five roofed Nepali style th face of the giant goddess, whose glaciers feed rich artistic flavour of 18 century can be pagoda temple in shape of an umbrella. our world, replenishes the granary stores of experienced walking down the square that Gigantic Sweta Bhairav and Kala Bhairav the subcontinent. has more than 50 significant monuments lying images, pillar of Pratap Malla, temples of Yet there were times when I was afraid to go within 300 metres. Jagannath. Mahendreswor, Degutalle, Indrapur into the sanctuary, first about two decades ago Archeological evidence dates back the site temple dedicated to Indra, Vishnu temple, because I feared the rigorous mountain life and to as early as the 3rd century BC. Images Kankeswor temple are the attractions of the later more recently because it had become the older than a millennium prove the complex to square. The ceremonial drum in front of Kala stronghold of the Maoist insurgency. be an important one. Kathmandu (Koligram, Bhairav goes back to early 19th century. Chyasin Unfortunately, the moment I decided to give the the older name) is believed to have developed Dega of Vamsagopala Krishna is an octagonal final touches to my Annapurna Poems in 2004, the into a town in the 9th century. The history of terracotta temple made in mid 17th century, a things were not as bright. Gandruk village had Kathmandu Durbar Square is incomplete distinct imitation of Krishna temple of Patan. turned into a ghost town, and the Gorepani and the without mentioning the contributions by King influence on the Rana dynasty. Stone inscriptions dedicated to goddess rest of the region quaked ominously from the Pratap Malla. He was an intellectual and a Kasthamandap, one of the oldest wooden Kalika, built in 1664 by Pratap Malla is said to operations of the insurgent and the military. I did dynamic king as well as a pious devotee of art pavilions on earth, was made in the 10th be written in 15 different languages including meet some of the insurgents. They appeared and music. He called himself a Kavindra, king century by King Gunakama Deva. The name English and French. It reads, ‘when the text is ordinary looking people, bent to charm any of poets and boasted that he was learned in Kathmandu is derived from this pavilion. Known fully read, milk starts flowing from the tap newcomer in the region with their party songs and 15 different languages. A passionate builder, also as Maru Sattal, it is a Gorakhnath shrine Tushahity in the centre’ and ‘who can read it exhort additional entry fee from the tourists holding he enlarged palace areas, built numerous dating back to 19th century. Kabindrapur are intelligent and not thieves.’ the permits. monuments and temples, ponds, fountains temple of Shiva in the form of Nataraj or The tallest temple in Kathmandu is Taleju The local people seemed strangely quiet and and introduced new systems in the city. Nasodya, the god of dance is in front. Maru Temple, built in 1564, dedicated to Taleju only sheepishly complained of the food and Contributions to enhance the beautification Ganesh, north of Kasthamandap, is perhaps Bhawani, the royal goddess. For Buddhists, she accommodation that they had to dole out the of the complex were carried out by his the most visited temple in Kathmandu. is the Tara. Two huge lions, confiscated from insurgents. Even today, the cadres continue to successors during the Malla dynasty. The Shah The 24 metre tall, three roofed pagoda Bhaktapur, guard the attractive Singha Dhoka. seek donations from the people in the Kings were more interested in warfare than in temple of Shiva, Maju Dega was built in late This 37 metre high, three roofed temple is Annapurna region. The hoteliers and lodge art but continued to patronise Newar artisans 17th century. A small white Shikhara styled opened to public once a year during Dashain. owner seem more vocal and critical of the and give continuity to culture and traditions. temple of Kama Deva can be seen in front of 12 shrines cluster around this temple. cadres’ attempt to exhort money, food, and The Kumari house in the square is the this temple. Shiva Parvati or Uma Maheswor Hundreds of revered shrines since accommodation. residence of the living goddess Kumari, who is temple is a late addition to the square. centuries have established the city as the city Threading through the forest leading to the regarded as the spiritual and tantric manifes- Constructed in 1792, it used to be the dancing of temples. Although the original size has spacious Buddhist stupa that keeps counting the tation of Goddess Taleju Bhawani. It is and cultural platform. Basically a Nava Durga decreased, Kathmandu Durbar Square still myriad moods of the blue-eyed Fewa below, I fundamentally a Buddhist shrine with temple, it is famous more as Shiva Parvati displays spectacular ancient surrounding that look out at the almost supernatural stretch of the wonderful woodcarvings. Kumari tradition was temple. Nearby is the Taleju Bell of is spread across more than five acres. It is a snow, vegetation and water. started by King Jaya Prakash Malla after Kathmandu, the biggest in the valley. great treasure that testifies Nepal to be one of Where would I find a world as beautiful as building the house in 1757. Legends say the Another site is Hanuman Dhoka, the the best in the world in terms of culture, this? Where else in the world would I make my king initiated the tradition as an apology for his entrance of which is guarded by a Hanuman tradition, engineering and architecture – at th little poems from the fiber of my bones and bad behaviour towards Taleju Bhawani who statue after which the entire complex in named. least at the end of 18 century. breathe my helpless words? I walk the courtyard used to play dice with the king. Hanuman is the son of air and is worshipped A wonderful place still to stroll around in, it of the hilltop stupa where a plump tourist lies The nine storied palace known as Nautalle for endurance and power. Hanuman, a is increasingly at risk due to public gatherings th lazily on a soft carpet of grass. In each fold of Durbar made by King Prithvi Narayan in late 18 bachelor, is supposed to have closed his eyes for political or entertainment reasons taking the Annanpura range, I recognise the place, the century is a superlative display of wood carving. to avoid seeing the erotic carvings of Jagannath place frequently. Although the metropolitan people struggling for bare survival in each Vishnu’s of Trailokya Mohan Narayan temple in temple. On the top of the entrance gate, authority in Kathmandu collects money from crevice. My head bows in reverence to the spirit front of Kumari house is known better as Das images of Krishna with his girl-friends and King tourists for its maintenance, the evening open of snow that gave me enough food to eat, to fill Avatar temple. Ten incarnations of Vishnu are Pratap Malla’s family are seen. air market, food vendors and bars around the my mind and a mission to survive for the rest of exhibited at the temple during Dashain festival. The courtyard inside the palace is called site is turning it into a very unruly, crowded my life. The front face of the square is a neo-classical Nasal Chowk, the dancing courtyard. Image and dirty place. Urgent steps need to be taken ([email protected]) building dating back to early 20th century. The of dancing Shiva, is seen in northeastern to preserve this magnificent site. British emblem on balcony illustrates the British corner. The courtyard is used for religious and (Writer’s email: [email protected]) 12 3-9 Dec, 2007 Event Visual Monlam prayer fiesta for world peace The 16th Monlam Prayer Festival for world lamas, Tulkus and Khenpos. Thousands of …Reviving hope peace is being held at Lumbini, starting from Lamas chant together the Monlam, which is Nov 29 and being held in the and generating concluding on Dec Gompa. Thousands momentum… 08, 07. This tradition of devotees and was started 16 years delegates from all ago in Lumbini by His monasteries and the Eminence Chogye International Sakya Trichen Rinpoche. Centre are present According to the late for the prayers. The burly dreams of Afghani men – a film from Denmark. Rinpoche, Lumbini Time Table for being the birth place Puja: 6:30-8:00 - The fifth edition of Kathmandu International award, the second and third best films will of Lord Sakyamuni Tara Puja for Mountain Film Festival is being held in receive citations and cash awards. The three- Buddha is the most accomplishment of all Kathmandu from 7 -11 December 2007 member jury will also select the best film from suitable place for activities; 9:00-9:30 - showcasing 52 films from 20 countries and a Nepali Panorama – a selection of seven films by such an important sixteen Arhat Puja variety of other events focusing on mountains Nepali filmmakers. KIMFF ’07 will also present a prayer. Monlam is an for the expounding of and films. KIMFF 2007 will be held in Rastriya showcase of Danish Films which will later travel aspiration prayer for Buddha Dharma for Sabha Griha and the Nepal Tourism Board, outside Kathmandu. world peace and for a long time; 9:30- Kathmandu. There are 22 films vying for the KIMFF ’07 will feature a photo competition on liberation of all 9:50 - Sakya lineage KIMFF Trophy. peace-building and reconciliation in Nepal. Mr. beings from the prayer; 9:50 - 10:10 Alpine documentation, experimental shorts, Fly will conduct a filmmaking workshop for samsaric cycle. - Manjushri Puja for anthropological narratives, feature films on a Nepali filmmakers; in ‘Know Your Himal’ Present for the knowledge and

wide array of issues will be presented. This quizmaster Kunda Dixit will test audiences on occasion are His Hemanta Gurung wisdom; 5:00 - edition is being organised with a specific focus their knowledge of the Nepali Himalaya. A Holiness, Sakya dedication of merit. on reviving hope and generating momentum for Nepali edition of French scholar Sylvan Levi's Trizin Rinpoche, the 41st patriarch of the On Dec 09, the final day, a prayer for a post-conflict, democratic Nepal. As a festival 'Nepal History' will be released during the Sakya tradition of Buddha dharma; H.E. world peace will be held in public at the dedicated to mountains, it will focus on the festival. There will be lectures/slideshows on Abikretn Rinpoche, H.E. Asanga Rinpoche, Asoka Pillar, in the sacred garden. This also devastating repercussions of global warming, 'Glacial Melt in the Himalaya' and on Nepal's H.E. marks the commemoration of the 317th day on the environment and ecologies of the world. wildlife. The festival will also feature a climbing Tharche Khen Rinpoche, H.E. Shabdrung of Chogye Trichen Rinpoche’s passing into An international jury chaired by Danish demonstration by professional Nepali climbers Rinpoche, H.E. Chogye Shabdrung nirvana. Peace chants will be done by Ani director Per Fly will select the top three films. and an exhibition of climbing gears, making it an Rinpoche, H.E. Dejung Rinpoche, many high Choying Drolma. ä While the best film will get a trophy and a cash action packed event. ä