#716 18 - 24 July 2014 20 pages Rs 50

Of the government, by the government, for the government he people’s apathy with government is turning into antipathy. Across the country, as Tthey struggled with daily survival, few were interested in the contents of the government’s Rs 618 billion annual budget presented to Parliament on Sunday. When you expect nothing from the PICS: BIKRAM RAI government, you are not disappointed when it does not deliver. MALE AND STALE So, while Mahat was preparing to present his EDITORIAL budget at the doorstep Parliament (above) women and children in Banepa queued for a trickle of water from PAGE 2 a spring (right). And while the UML’s chaotic party PEDALLING jamboree was winding down, vegetable farmers in BLOOD SWEAT Kalimati dumped tons of tomatoes on the middle of the road to protest low prices. Just as well, because the AND TEARS A CAUSE government hasn’t been able to stop rampant pesticide DEADLINE Join thousands of residue in vegetables from poisoning consumers. BY DAMAKANT JAYSHI bicyclists on Saturday for Nepal’s rulers and the people who elected them seem to live in parallel universes. It’s a government for the PAGE 6 the annual Kathmandu government. The people be damned. Kora Cycling Challenge Survivors of the conflict that ended eight years COMMISSIONS OF and make the 100km ago still wait for justice and atonement. Thousands circumambulation migrate every day to work in the Gulf, Malaysia CONVENIENCE of the Valley and India. A new study says vulnerability of Nepali BY TRISHNA RANA migrant workers to exploitation abroad is heightened by routine abuse within Nepal. PAGE 16-17 PAGE 7 2 EDITORIAL 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 MALE AND STALE f you have been following the mainstream media for conspirators. The murder of UML cadre Amar in Nepal for the past three weeks, you may Lama who was driving the car in 2003, supposedly Ihave been under the illusion that there was another by the Maoists, only added to the intrigue. general election afoot. But it was just a member Far from being scientific communists, the UML of the ruling coalition, the UML, having its general has often flip-flopped and sometimes displayed convention and voting for new party functionaries. an irrational streak. When it first won elections In the hyper-reality world of Nepali media, nothing and came briefly to power in 1994, it showed else happened in the country in the past month. relatively clean and efficient governance with collective It has been a tradition in Nepal since 1990 to inject decision-making under statesman-leader Manmohan political colour into everything, so it wasn’t surprising Adhikari. But in the age of coalition politics, the party that there was lots of politicisation of politics within faced scathing ridicule for being “neither a duck the UML as well. The party was polarised into two nor a chicken”. The reason was that it often looked halves, and the once-split Unified Marxist-Leninists like the UML’s leaders were playing politics just were on the verge of another binary fission. for the sake of politics, and had lost sight of what On one side was once-prime minister and stood for. twice-party chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal and That brings us to the present, and unfortunately, his followers, and on the other was once-firebrand not much has changed. In last week’s chaotic and revolutionary, now-ailing KP Oli. What Oli lacked self-obsessive general convention, the party’s dirty in physical stamina was more than made up for by the linen was all hung up to dry at Bhrikuti Mandap. The powerful backing of Home Minister and Deputy Prime party tried to put its scientific credentials on display Minister Bamdev Gautam. with futuristic drones, lasers and robots, but all that There is a fatal flaw in the personalities of most DIWAKAR CHETTRI backfired because manual vote-counting stretched of Nepal’s politicians: they don’t know when to over days. call it quits. Tenacity and ambition can be a virtue, However, it was in the list of 14 elected office- but clinging on to power despite age, infirmity The UML election was not internal bearers that proved that the UML is one of the or irrelevance is not. Which is why aging cancer patient least inclusive political parties in Nepal. Aside from Sushil Koirala is squandering the respect gained from party democracy in action, but the token women and Janajatis, the core leadership a lifetime fighting for democracy by coveting the prime is male and stale: dominated by hill Brahmins who minister’s chair just to keep a rival out. Madhav Nepal politicisation of politics. have already served multiple times in government and has had the chance to lead his country and party to the party hierarchy. Interestingly, the word ‘male’ is demonstrate what he could achieve which, as it turned die-hard Marxism-Leninism into the people’s multi-party also the Nepali acronym for Marxist-Leninist. It's no out, was not much. Oli may be a straight talking tough democracy line. Bhandari was a man of his times, and in the wonder the UML's Janajati members are mutinying. guy, but with a double kidney transplant it is pretty early 1990s knew which way the wind was blowing after the On the plus side, we see some young faces in obvious he is just a stand-in for Gautam. collapse of the Soviet empire and the fall of the Berlin wall. the party hierarchy who have shown integrity and a The UML’s downfall started after the tragic death Alas, the UML liliputs immediately showed their can-do attitude when given positions of responsibility in a highway accident in 1993 of Madan Bhandari, its capacity for cynical opportunism by calling Bhandari’s death in government in the past. And, perhaps, that leader and architect of the party’s metamorphosis from an “assassination” and indulging in a protracted witch-hunt is where the hope lies.

YOUR SAY www.nepalitimes.com

THE POLITICS OF EVERYTHING government, but Kathmandu also challenging the old, senile, pot bellied A MINORITY WITHIN A MINORITY WHAT’S TRENDING Finally a commentary that breaks the neglects the Karnali and Upper Gorkha. leaders of their respective parties. Tibetan Muslims who lived in Tibet taboo about discussing the dangers The people of Madhes have been let Narayana Prasad were of three origins: Nepali, Indian of ethnicity based federalism (‘The down by mainly by their own leaders, and Tibetan (‘A minority within a politics of everything’, Editorial, and the leaders know that fully well. DANGEROUS WORK minority,’ Clare Hennig, #715). #715). The best case scenario D Gurung This is just the tip of the iceberg While they practice Islam as their is that they will be economically (‘Danger, men at work’, Prashant religion, their culture, language unviable and will collapse because THE GENERATION GAP Gnawali, #715). The dangerous and food habits are very similar, future provinces will start arguing Here is a humble suggestion to the working conditions of factory workers if not the same as Tibetans. This about sharing natural resources and drafters of the new consitution: please along industrial corridor across the happened due to cross marriages tax revenues. And the worst case- include an age bar and a limit on the country- grill-workers working without that began to take place after JAN MØLLER HANSEN scanerio is that those confl icts will term of offi ce for all political posts masks to protect from poisonous opening of trade with India and be inter-ethnic. The result: Bosnia from the president to ministers to the fumes, NEA staff fi xing lines without Nepal. After the invasion in 1959, Most shared on Facebook multiplied by 20. peon of a party (‘The gender gap,’ safety equipments, and cleaning the Nepali, Indian and the Chinese Societies in black and white Kumar Trishna Rana, #715). Provisions for a manholes without gears to protect them government allowed the Tibetan Kunda Dixit's East-West blog maximum of two, fi ve-year terms and from infection and rashes--the denial Muslims to move back to their In order to calm down the retirement at the age of 70 must be of basic safety equipments to cut the country of origin. Most liked on Facebook exacerbation of identity politics, the included. Aged leaders can still act as costs has become so normalised, one Zehnat Banu A minority within a minority sociopolitical structure needs to senior advisers to the party but should hardly notices. Clare Hennig go through the phase of de-khasa- be forbidden from holding any offi cial @AnuragAcharya THE GREAT HIMALAYAN isation. But federalism based on posts. This way, the leaders are less TRAVERSE Most retweeted and ethnic identity as a remedy is worse likely to waste time in petty wrangling LIVING TOGETHER Nepal’s restricted area permit favourited on Twitter than the disease. and as one person cannot become a This is such a double edged sword system is totally outdated and is Moving the goalposts by Ass Nirmal minister three times, more opportunities for women who live in traditional hampering tourism development will be created for younger leaders. society such as ours (‘Living together,’ in areas which need it most (‘The Most visited online page Ethnicity based federalism will Political careers in this part of the world Mina Sharma, #715). Nepali women great Himalayan traverse,’ Matt Not so happily ever after never work because most Nepalis start young (usually in the early 20s). today have far greater freedom than Miller, #715). Bhrikuti Rai don’t believe in it. The only people Fifty years of politics is more than before to choose their partners and Michal Thomas who want it are discredited politicians enough time for an individual to build even fi nd how compatible they are like Prachanda, the ethnic parties a strong base, make a difference, and with their mates by living together MOVING THE GOALPOSTS and the Indian government. then retire gracefully. before marriage. However, the stigma Nepal could invite Qatari workers to HUM GVR attached with living and having sexual build the stadiums in Nepal, after all Weekly Internet Poll #716 relations with men before marriage they are building prefabs (‘Moving Q. Do you think an Asian team will win the WorldCup in This editorial is very timely, It’s not about age - they are venal is so harsh that if the cohabitation the goalposts,’ Ass, #715). Then the next fifty years? logical and much needed. and corrupt, and incompetent for the does not work out as planned, then take their passports and deprive Total votes: 281 @dn_ktm most part. life becomes hell for the women in them of holidays, money, living David Seddon question. They are called names, most standards and their human rights, Most of the blame would go to likely abandoned by families, while that would be FIFA Fair Play. opportunistic Madhesi leaders who Gagan Thapa, Udaya Rana, the men escape relatively unharmed. @qatarninetales were so bankrupt of political capital Rabinda Adhikari, Ganesh Man Pun Given our narrow-minded social by 2007 that they decided to wage may be “ young” in relation to the other setting, women have to be cautious You are funny as hell! I liked ethnic politics. The president, vice- leaders but unfortunately lack infl uence before deciding to live in with their number 7 and 9 the most. FIFA Weekly Internet Poll #717 president, and top ministers are all to really make a difference. Personally, partners. Laws to protect and ensure should defi nitely consider these To vote go to: www.nepalitimes.com Madhesis. The Madhesi people may I feel these men lack the drive and are the safety of women are welcome. suggestions. have been excluded by the Nepali incapable of asserting their rights and Aarti Banskota SP Q. Are you satisfied with the new Budget?

Publisher and Chief Editor: Kunda Dixit Associate Editor: Tsering Dolker Gurung | Online Producer: Ayesha Shakya | Design: Kiran Maharjan Published by Himalmedia Pvt Ltd | Patan Dhoka, Lalitpur | GPO Box 7251 Kathmandu [email protected] | www.nepalitimes.com | www.himalmedia.com | Tel: 01-5005601-08 Fax: +977-1-5005518 Marketing: Arjun Karki, Surendra Sharma [email protected] | Advertorials: Ram Krishna Banjara | Subscriptions: Santosh Aryal [email protected] Nepali Times on Facebook Follow @nepalitimes on Twitter Printed at Jagadamba Press | 01-5250017-19 | www.jagadambapr.com 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 3 4 OPINION 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716

SUBHAS RAI

ournalists are a self-righteous and whether they are being bunch who relish telling manipulated. The bargain already Jpeople what they ought to compromises the reporter, editor, do. We may be expected to or even publisher, because we just report, but we also like to The truth about facts cannot expect them to cover dispense unsolicited advice on anything that may embarrass, what is right and what is not, It’s a thin line between using news sources and being used by them endanger or expose wrongdoing of the very institutions they are in news reports can be subjective in have dedicated beats for political the time they are about to rise to bed with. terms of where they are placed, parties, overseen by reporters power or have taken up office. Who is going to expose how the story is angled, who is considered closest to those There is a race among reporters to corruption within the opaque quoted and in what order. influential in the parties. A NC, be the first to profile a leader as it procurements of the Nepal Army, Journalists report, but more UML or Maoist beat reporter, for would bring, among many other for instance? Will it still be importantly we are also supposed instance, can be trusted to speak things, the opportunity to be close possible to investigate corruption THIS IS IT to interpret, analyse and explain for his sources. to a power center and enjoy his in the judiciary? Can one expect a Rubeena Mahato events. And the license to do so Office-bearers of the blessings. Reporters are sometimes reporter embedded with the comes from the assumption that Federation of Nepali Journalists in such thrall of a rising new Nepal Oil Corporation to expose what is to be believed and what the media or those working in the (FNJ) openly contest elections leaders that they are elevated graft there? should be questioned, which media business are people of high on behalf of political panels. unquestioningly and prematurely It’s a thin line between using ideas are morally revolting and integrity and conscience and can Various professional associations to high pedestals. news sources and being used by which are worth leaps in faith. be trusted upon to interpret ‘facts’ of journalists, even clubs, are Journalists are taught not to get them. Journalist face this ethical The ethics of doing so might and meanings for the public. divided along party lines and too close to their sources, to keep dilemma regularly. Some be endlessly contested but that But what if those trusted most journalists make no effort to perspective, and not to accept succumb because it’s just is how the media works, and with delivering the truth or hide their allegiance. freebies. But that has not stopped not worth the effort to resist not just in Nepal. To those who the closest version of it, have It is standard practice in some to go out of their way to the temptation, others are take issue with opinion pieces, it compromised their independence? Nepal to elevate political leaders practice mutual back-scratching disillusioned enough to leave might be worth noting that even Consider this: all newspapers to god-like status often around journalism, virtually becoming a profession they idealistically mouthpieces to their news sources believed could be an agent of in exchange for whatever has been change. offered in return. Journalism is simple as long The credibility of Nepali media as you follow the old-fashioned today is threatened by embedded rules: protect news sources but journalism. It is of course more importantly protect the convenient to have news to come news from the sources. As in to you especially from institutions most things, in reporting too, the that are fiercely secretive like the process matters as much as the Army or intelligence agencies. outcome. Any information from them And while the desire and carries news value, but there is initiative to serve the ‘facts’ might no free lunch in the corridors of be praiseworthy, compromising power. It is always a quid pro quo: the values and ethics of one’s the journalist gets a scoop, the profession while doing so is not. source gets to spin. Fact that come this way stop Reporters rarely ask whose serving the cause of truth. interest is served by such leaks, @rubeenaa 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 5 6 NATION 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 Blood, sweat and tears ‘The vulnerability of Nepali migrant workers to exploitation abroad is heightened by routine misconduct within Nepal’

he exploitation of Nepali vulnerable workers in the media on bargaining collectively for workers abroad has been nearly every day. But clearly, the better working conditions for Tcalled a form of ‘modern reports are not helping to curb South Asian countries. The day slavery’, and exploded in the impunity since the guilty do not forthcoming SAARC Summit international media this year with fear punishment. could be the ideal forum to one exposé after another over After international launch this initiative. their mistreatment in Qatar. uproar generated by exposés on In Nepal’s case, as the the mistreatment of Nepali CESLAM study emphasises, workers, there have been there is an urgent need to rein insinuations that the West is in recruiting agencies which are unfairly targeting Qatar in order at the frontlines of the abuse to relocate the venue of the 2022 of worker rights. They mistreat World Cup. We are barking up aspirant workers, over-charge the wrong tree: this is not about for tickets, permits and travel THE DEADLINE football, it is about decent pay, documents, and provide forged Damakant Jayshi acceptable working conditions documents or abandon them and protection for migrant at airports in Doha, Dubai or The danger in such high workers both in Nepal and the Bahrain. Those that do make profile international coverage is host country. it have to work for at least six that it takes the spotlight off the BIKRAM RAI The government of Nepal months just to pay back the exploitation of Nepali workers by and other migrant-exporting recruiters’ fees, often their Nepali recruiters and immigration compensation or other forms of construction, education and retail countries are mum about the salaries are nowhere near officials, and tends to let them off justice in Nepal or abroad,’ the sectors. kafala system of bonded labour of what was promised. Many of the hook. study reports. And how are we treating their workers in the Gulf because the recruiters have political The Centre for the Study of The study also points that the people who have been they don’t want to jeopardise protection. Labour and Mobility (CESLAM) the laws governing recruitment making such significant their economic lifeline and youth We don’t need more research of Social Science Baha has and placement of Nepali migrant contributions in propping up employment safety valve. What or media exposés about the abuse been studying the violation workers are relatively robust, our economy? CESLAM’s paper the governments forget is that this and exploitation of our workers, of the labour rights of Nepali but their implementation does not mince words: ‘The story is not a one-way traffic: the Gulf we need government agencies migrant workers. Its damning and enforcement weak. The of labour migration begins and countries need the cheap labour with teeth that can protect the study, Migrant Workers’ Access to exploitation of the migrant labour ends at home. The vulnerability as much as we need the money millions of Nepali who shed Justice at Home: Nepal, puts a lot continues, and impunity is of Nepali migrant workers to they send home. blood, sweat and tears to prop up of the blame squarely on Nepali entrenched. exploitation abroad is heightened With individual governments this country. labour brokers. The average annual by routine misconduct committed unable and unwilling to take on @damakant ‘Despite Nepal’s efforts to remittance from migrant labour is in Nepal during the pre-departure the issue with the host countries, protect migrant workers, it is nearly 25 per cent of Nepal’s GDP phase by individual agents, there is urgent need to develop nepalitimes.com generally failing to hold private of Rs 1.71 trillion, up from 20 per recruitment agencies, and other a coordinated South Asian Hydropower and manpower, recruitment companies and cent just three years ago. Most private actors.’ approach. Instead of undercutting Editorial, #676 individual agents accountable, district capitals in the hinterland Most of this is not new, each other in migrant worker Modern day slavery, # and the vast majority of workers have seen a huge infusion of there is a shocking story of pay, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Working to death, # remain unable to access cash, which has led to a boom in mistreatment and cheating of Nepal and Sri Lanka could work

BIZ BRIEFS New look Yeti Airlines, has introduced a new livery to its BAE Jetstream 41 fl eet. The Jetstream 41 9N-AHW (pic) is the fi rst to be painted in the new design by Aashik Pokhrel. Extending south SpiceJet has announced launch of its new fl ight from Kathmandu to Bagdora in Darjeeling district. Beginning 13 August, the airline will operate three fl ights a week on this route. In recognition Etihad Airways held its annual Eithad Trade Awards at the Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu on 15 July. Fourteen trade partners of the airline were awarded in three categories- Travel Agency of the Year, Best Premium Sales and Best Share Shift. Doubling frequency China Southern Airline has started operating double daily fl ights for its Guangzhou to Kathmandu to Guangzhou route from 15 July. The new fl ight timing will be 8.30am departure from Guangzhou and departure from Kathmandu at 11.55am. Quadruple win Turkish Airlines was awarded the ‘Best Airline in Europe’ for the fourth time at the 2014 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The results announced at the Farnborough Airshow in Hampshire on also named the airlines the ‘Best Airline in Southern Europe’, ‘Best Business Class Onboard Catering,’ and ‘Best Business Class Lounge Dining’. The south-west monsoon is now vigorously active over the subcontinent, trying to make up for lost time. The annual pattern in Nepal is that the moisture-laden winds from the Bay arrive from the southeast without lightning and KATHMANDU thunder, and with persistent rain. Usually the monsoon comes in waves called "pulses" which are actually low pressure troughs accompanied by heavy precipitation. On Friday, the pressure is dipping to below 1,000hPa which portends torrential rain mainly at night through the weekend along the Mahabharat range south of Kathmandu. FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 27° 27° 28° #716 18 - 24 July 2014 19° 19° 19°

COURTESY: SAVE THE CHILDREN Rs 2 million for the construction of a birthing facility in Pyutar, South Lalitpur. “Women here give birth in the post office”, said Bipin Maharjan, manager of Socialtours. “Seeing these horrible conditions, we chose to help a village nearer to Kathmandu this time”. PEDALLING In addition to raising money for unprivileged rural areas, Karma Foundation and Socialtours hope to increase awareness among the cyclists, and their entourage, to the organisation’s cause of the year. FOR A CAUSE The organisation asks the riders to raise Rs 100 per kilometer by soliciting friends, On Saturday, hundreds of cyclists will family and companies to pledge for the cause. But this is a voluntary act and riders once more do a full circle of the Valley are not bound to collect that exact amount of money. Although Karma Foundation receives STEPHANE HUET suggested that he conduct a fundraising support from agents in Australia, U.K, Norway cycling challenge around Kathmandu. With and U.S.A, Maharjan wants Nepal to be less the help of another teen, Shishang Lama, dependent on foreign aid. hree years ago, two 16-year-old Jones began to organise the challenge in “We are used to receiving money from volunteers decided to organise a January 2011. other countries,” he said. “But if we are Tfundraising bike race around the Six months later, in July 2011, thirty-five united, we don’t have to rely only on foreign Kathmandu Valley. On Saturday, 19 July, other cyclists joined the two teenagers and funding”. the fourth annual Kathmandu Kora Cycling cycled 60 km around Kathmandu. The event To show participants the difference their Challenge will take place once again. The raised Rs 450,000 which was shared between contributions can make, Karma Foundation event is expected to draw 1300 cyclists as SAMATA school and OCCED orphanage. took ten riders to witness the implementation they challenge themselves to complete routes After the success of the first cycling of the project in Sharmali last year. of 50km, 75km or 100km around the Valley. challenge, Socialtours expanded the “It’s important for the cyclist to witness Kathmandu Kora, which takes its name fundraising campaign and created Karma the difference they’re enabling”, said Pandey. from the clockwise circumambulation done Foundation, a non-profit to run Kathmandu “We want people to understand that one by Buddhists around religious structures, Kora. Each year, the INGO Save the Children individual can make a big difference.” was initiated in 2011 by British teenager identifies a new cause for the funds raised by Maxim Jones. the cycling challenge, which usually include Kathmandu Kora 2014 Before leaving for a volunteering development projects in rural areas 19 July, 7am trip to Nepal, he wanted to raise of Nepal. Rs 950,000 for the renovation of a birthing Patan Darbar Square funds for his missions at the “We implement projects in facility in Samritu, Rukum. The following kathmandukora.net, karmafoundation.org SAMATA School in Boudha and the zones where the government cannot year, nepalitimes.com OCCED Orphanage in Naxal. operate”, explained Binita Pandey, 800 riders amassed Rs 1.7 million to Jones contacted the Nepali chairperson of Karma Foundation. build a birthing centre in Sharmali, Baitadi. Yak Attack 2013, #649 tour operator Socialtours, who In 2012, Kathmandu Kora raised This year, Karma Foundation hopes to raise Ride on the roof, #665 8 EVENTS DINING Joystick joy, Beyond auto mode, Haus Café, Take part in the All Nepal E-Sports learn how to use your camera beyond pastas, pizzas, desserts, Haus does Challenge and be second to none in its auto function. Don't just be a button- everything with equal perfection. Pulchok hyper-reality – inviting Counter Strike, pusher; take control of your pictures. DOTA and FIFA '14 teams. Registration until 18 July. Kasi, 18 to 22 July, 10am to 6pm, Civil Mall, call 20 to 31 July, 5.30 to 7pm, Rs 6000, spread out over a large terrace 9849659820 for registration Canon Imaging School, Maitry Bhawan, overlooking Phora Darbar, Kasi off ers a New Road delectable plate of Newari delicacies. Muna Madan, Darbar Marg Nepal’s favourite epic on stage again. Amalgam, BFF, Runs till 31 July, Rs 100/200/300/500, A series of talks around the ongoing Noyoz, adopt a dog from Animal Nepal’s shelter Rastriya Nachghar, Jamal exhibition at Siddhartha Art Gallery this tiny little joint serves food that – the local mixed breeds are healthier Chopstix, tastes like your mother’s home-cooking. and better adjusted to local conditions 20 July, Socio-political art, savoury Asian food cooked in true Chinese Bhatbhateni than pedigrees. Rs 150, animalnepal.org, questioning the role of the artist as an fashion sure to charm and impress. Try (01)5538068, 9841334537 informed citizen, 3pm the famous drums of heaven. Weekend brunch, 27 July, Street art, spreading socio- Kumaripati, (01)5551118 beside the swimming pool and Jacuzzi at The Butterfly Home Project, a political messages through art in the local Hyatt Regency. Ideal way to end the week, fundraising exhibition and sale of arts and community, 3pm. with fun, food and friends. crafts by the children of Early Childhood Siddhartha Art Gallery, The Café, Hyatt Regency. Saturdays Development Center (ECDC). Babar Mahal Revisited 12.30pm to 4pm, until 3.30pm (Sundays). 19 to 20 July, 11am to 5pm, The City Museum, Rs 18 000, (01)449 1234 Darbar Marg Impression, an exhibition of the works of Lal Durbar Restaurant, photographer Aakash Pradhan. authentic Nepali dinner with cultural 10am to 5pm, Cafe Mitini, Lajimpat, shows. (01)4002070 Hotel Yak & Yeti, Darbar Marg, (01)4248999, Kickabout, iDoYo Ushi No Hi, [email protected] your shot at glory as it rains goals at the savour exquisite Japanese delicacies at Trisara, second Arsenal Nepal Futsal Fest. Mako’s to celebrate the Japanese eel with dishes like fl ambeed prawns, crispy 19 July, 11am onwards, Sky Goals, festival. chicken, and khao soi, it would be a folly Bhatbhateni Store, Maharajganj 18 to 20 July, Mako's Japanese restaurant, The to ignore its aromas. Lajimpat Dwarika's hotel, Battisputali Kathmandu kora, join hundreds of cycling enthusiasts and Dan Ran, ride for 50, 75, or 100 km to raise funds the best Japanese food this part of town. for a birthing centre in Pyutar, Lalitpur. Jhamsikhel Headspin, 18 to 19 July, facebook.com/kathmandu.kora Charya Nritya, Take part in the ultimate B-boying Experience Kathmandu's version of dance Vol Au Vents, competition in Nepal and compete with Flagbearers, meditation under the tutelage of Prajwal go crazy with choice combination of fi llings dancers from New Delhi and Mumbai to Be one of 30,000 participants to form the Ratna Vajracharya and immerse yourself for scones, crepes and vol au vents with win Rs 25,000 in cash prizes. largest human national fl ag and make it to in nature, consciousness and compassion. the Lounge’s new interactive menu. Rs 400 Lanhua, Rs 250, 10 August, St Xavier's School, the Guinness Book of World Records. Rs 1,600, 1 to 14 September, 12.15pm, (exclusive of tax) onwards, The Lounge, Hyatt for the best of Chinese cuisine at great Jawalakhel 9 August, 6 to 9am, Tundikhel, Kathmandu inneradventuretravel.com Regency, Tusal prices. Lakeside, Pokhara 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 9 MUSIC GETAWAYS Devika Bandana, catch the songstress with over 300 hit songs to her name in her live solo comeback performance. Hotel Radisson, Lajimpat, Kathmandu. 9801184474.

House of music, for fi ve days a week, this bar and Shastriya sangeet, restaurant is packed with musical events Neydo Monastery, the best of Hindustani classical every that include open mics, karaoke and jam a monastery and guest house, Neydo is new moon night. sessions. home to many signifi cant religious sites 27 July, 4pm onwards, Battisputali Open Tuesdays to Sundays , of the great siddhas. Leave your troubles 4 to 11pm, Amrit Marg, Thamel, 9851075172 behind and book a room. Love=rebellion, Pharping, Kathmandu Party with bands and slam poetry www.neydohotel.com/contact/html collectives like Garbage Inc, Squirt Guns, Social Nerve, Youth Unite, and Word Indulge at Hyatt Regency Warriors. Special relax package for two: one night Rs 150, 19 July, 7pm onwards, at hotel, complimentary spa and buff et La Grange, Thamel breakfast the next morning. Rs 9 000. For reservations, call 977 1 449 1234 or email [email protected] Balthali Village Resort, a small, cosy retreat with a bird’s eye view of green terrace fi elds dotted with ochre painted houses. Balthali, Kavre, 9851075818 Heavy friggin' gig, Hunkaar, Party with the underbelly of the local Nepali vedic death metal band Dying Out music scene, featuring Shannon Scam, Flame are releasing their debut album Wakk Thuu, 13th Street, Strangle and Shiva Rudrastakam, supported by Defl esh, other wildly agitated rock combos. Undefi ned Human, Corpse Sick, and Rs 100, 1pm onwards, Jamsthan, Forensic Torture. Talchikhel, Lalitpur 24 July, Rs 50, Sainik Bhawan, Dharan Jhule mountain resort, 2 August, Rs 350 (including CD), Hetauda Music at the museum, resting 2050m above sea level, the eco- catch Nepal's favourite blues guitarist resort boasts a farmhouse that stretches Raktapyas, in action with his band, the Ashesh trio across a hill covered in fresh pine. 28 of Nepal's sickest thrash/grind/death performs at the City Museum, featuring Enjoy an organic homestay experience. metal bands are out to get you – are you the Thimi Dhimey Pucha. Rs 350,19 July, Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park, game? 21 July 6.45pm, The City Museum, Darbar Marg Lapsiphedi-3, Jhule, (01)6212399 10

Transforming bahals A bahal or a bahi usually consists of the Sangha Keeping up (the community members), Kwapadeo (the shrine of the main deity) and an Agam (a secondary shrine efore dawn while the rest of that houses tantric deities, accessible only to certain the temple courtyard was still initiated individuals). Basleep, Bibindra Bajracharya Bruce McCoy Owens, associate professor of pulled away from his bed to start Anthropology at Wheaton College in Massachusetts, the first puja of the day at Bu Bahal, retraced Locke’s steps to research the changes a temple courtyard in Patan. As he undergone over three decades. He visited each one of cleaned the temple and moved about these known bahals extensively and has documented the courtyard lighting up oil lamps, ccording to the late Jesuit Nepali scholar John K their transformations throughout the years. devotees started to congregate outside Locke, there are an estimated 356 bahals and bahis Over time, he noticed both structural changes in the temple at the break of dawn. Ain Kathmandu Valley, 165 of which are in Patan. the bahals as well as changes within the traditions “My main responsibility for the Scattered across the entire city, bahals are a type of of the community. However, he does not view this last seven days and the rest of this courtyard commonly found in Newa architecture. Bahis, negatively. week is to look after the temple,” said on the other hand, are a sub type of bahals. Apart from “Transformation doesn't always mean destruction Bajracharya, a 37-year-old jeweller being smaller in size, they contain a number of structural because it is an ongoing tradition,” Owens explained who is from a younger generation of differences including an elevated entrance and lack at a talk program in Patan this month. “Transformation priests. He is part of a tradition that partitions in the interior residences. is what keeps bahals alive.” requires a male from every family 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 11 MOVING OUT, MOVING ON There are fewer people to look after rituals at Patan’s temple courtyards as the younger generation leaves

LOUISE EVANGELINE NG

s part of his daily “They usually go out to earn routine, 74-year-old money, and then come back and Punyaraj Bajracharya build houses. Not in the bahal, but in ambles towards the the ancestral lands in the outskirts temple courtyard in his of the city,” Bipin explained. bahalA for evening prayers. After The reason for this exodus much effort, his chest heaving he can also be attributed to space takes a deep breath, and sits on the constraints within average-sized temple steps. homes in bahals. With rapid Just three years into his tenure modernisation and increased as an aju, or elder, of Bu Bahal he affluence over the years, families will carry out this daily ritual for now prefer to live in much as long as he lives. Punyaraj (pic, bigger spaces than what a bahal below) is part of a group of 12 can offer. elders who oversee the bahal’s “Bigger is always better,” said rituals and prayers. Bipin. “There are not many rooms The role of aju indicates in my house. If I get married, and seniority and wisdom, and he my brother gets married, there’s no is revered by the community. way we can still stay here together.” Punyaraj’s ties to Bu Bahal, which Bipin’s family is planning to consists of Bajrachayas and move to another property in Bagdol Shakyas, run deep within his in two years to afford the family bloodline - both his father and more space. grandfather were aju in their time Uttam Ratna Dhakhwa, 70, from as well. Nag Bahal in Patan moved out of his family home 40 years ago due to limited space for him and his two brothers. Though space was ample in his father’s time, it soon ran out as the family expanded. It came to a point whereby it was impossible to divide the house up further. After Uttam left, his brothers followed suit. Today, the family home is locked up and abandoned. Eight other homes within the Dhakhwa part of Nag Bahal are also deserted. Uttam and his family still return to their bahal twice a year for annual feasts and celebrations, but his links to the bahal are not as PICS: BASIL EDWARD TEO strong as before. Yet, this celebrated tradition, “It’s happening on a large scale. which has remained a cornerstone It’s very natural that families are of Bu Bahal’s identity for growing, places are too small, and generations, is now at risk of being at the same time, the demands are lost as the younger generation increasing in terms of services. p with the times moves on and moves out. Now people want a water tap in the Bipin Bajracharya, 28, house, proper washing facilities, within the community to care for the “In the past, you had to wear a understands that he will be required cars – and sometimes that’s not Buddhist shrine within the temple on a traditonal dhoti to perform these to participate in the bahal’s Buddhist possible there,” Uttam said. 15-day rotation basis. He also sweeps, rituals, and you had to stay inside rituals when he is older, but it Like a thread being pulled from cleans and leads prayer rituals three the bahal for 15 days. Today, I can is still in the distant future, and a fine garment, community ties times a day while still working in his still work and eat outside.” remains the furthest thought from are starting to unspool as families nearby jewellery store. He adds: “I have taken the his mind. “These traditions are continue to move out from their Although the process has been responsibility and I hope the mainly for the older generation. ancestral homes. Today, Punyaraj challenging, he feels proud to carry younger generation will do so too. Young people are not really is unsure if the traditions he on his family’s tradition. “Yes, Even though many young men from involved,” he said. keeps now will be passed on to his I have a full-time job and other the bahal are working overseas now, In the past five years, young grandchildren. responsibilities, but I’ll always have I hope that they will still come back people from some 15 families have “My grandson is very busy. He my job,” he said. to fulfill their duties.” moved out from Bu Bahal to work or has no time to talk to me about the Bu Bahal is over 800 years old, Basil Edward Teo study. Although they might return rituals, and doesn't want to become for holidays, the chances of them an aju,” Punyaraj said. “But I hope and the community’s tradition nepalitimes.com for its upkeep and rituals have coming back for good are low. one day he will.” survived generations evolving Watch Nepali Times video: The young priest of Bu Bahal with the times. Said Bajracharya: 12

lives and dreams. It is not difficult to believe that the poor neglected Ila would succumb to cooking meals for a complete stranger, especially after we see her meager interactions with Rajiv, the thoughtless and possibly unfaithful husband. As for Irrfan Khan’s character, a widower who has reconciled himself to accepting his loneliness, Ila is a beacon of all that is thoughtful and generous. This is not a film about grand gestures, destiny, or even “true romance” as we have come to know it through mainstream cinema. Instead this wonderful story deals with the minutiae of HAPPENINGS life that makes it worth living – the THE LUNCHBOX small kind acts, the home-cooked meals, the everyday jokes, the ne day a young woman film about a rather unorthodox appreciation of the people who called Ila (played by the epistolary relationship between Ila truly care for you. Ounassuming and lovely and the receiver of her deliciously As Ila and her new friend Nimrat Kaur) sends a traditional cooked meals, delivered by way slowly find their way towards each stacked lunchbox, or dabba (as of the famous dabbawalas of other, you wonder, as so often they are called in India), to her Mumbai. happens in real life, if they will uninterested husband at his It is hard to believe that such a actually miss each other because workplace. Taking advice from the subtle, deeply sophisticated film is of the debris that surrounds them the work of a debutant, and yet it – their pasts, their duties, their is indeed Ritesh Batra’s first film. own crippling fears. Just as impressive is that Batra Beautifully observed and managed to convince the peerless filmed in a Mumbai rarely seen in Irrfan Khan to play the slightly Bollywood films, The Lunchbox is surly, uncommunicative, about-to- one of the most enchanting films DEVAKI BISTA retire accountant who accidentally I’ve seen in a long while. It is no BUDGET 2014: Finance Minister Ram Sharan Mahat flaunts the budget briefcase to the media before presenting it in parliament on Sunday. MUST SEE receives Ila’s fragrant meals. wonder that when it premiered at Sophia Pande As Khan’s character (whose Cannes in 2013 it won the Critics name is revealed via a thoroughly Week Viewer’s Choice award. Auntie upstairs (a never seen but tongue in cheek scene at Ila’s hilariously opinionated elderly apartment) learns to appreciate the The Lunchbox is now available on neighbour), she has prepared a gift lunches, he and Ila strike up DVD with English subtitles. special recipe and hopes to cook an exchange of notes that initially her way into her husband’s heart. begin with banalities like “the food nepalitimes.com The lunchbox goes astray and was too salty today,” and progress Trailer so begins a quiet but captivating to candid exchanges about their

BASIL EDWARD TEO GO GERMANY: Supporters of Germany celebrate the team’s goal during the World Cup final at a public screening of the match in Patan on early Monday morning. Germany won the game 1-0 defeating host Brazil to win the World Cup for the fourth time.

BIMMI SHARMA LET’S PRAY: Inmates at Birgunj jail sit down for Namaz before breaking their fast on Monday. Hindu prisoners at the jail have also been fasting during Ramadan.

DEVAKI BISTA GETTING READY: A woman shops for bangles a day ahead of the Nepali month of Shrawan at a store in Ason, New Road on Wednesday. Teej, an important festival for Hindu women, occurs this month. 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 13

and the stories of those living in the margins settlements, abandoned cement factories, or of society represent real drama. And Hansen, brick kilns. a diplomat-photographer tells those stories One of his most striking pictures is a long SOCIETIES IN of the excluded and voiceless through stark shot taken at Pashupati of a mother grieving at black-and-white images. the funeral of her dead baby. The picture won “You can get closer to the person with 2013 Photo Award on Documentary (People’s BLACK AND black and white, the images are more powerful Choice) and is the kind of photo that Hansen because there is no colour to distract you,” says “hits you in the gut”. Hansen explains, “you can concentrate on Through black and white pictures, Hansen WHITE the texture, features, tone and dynamic range puts the physical frailty of human beings in of the image.” vulnerable situations in sharp contrast to He is self-taught, and what started out as the uncaring, unfeeling, unjust world around a hobby has now become a powerful way to them. But even amidst all this squalour and document and show the reality of the dark suffering, you see the triumph of the human underbelly of our societies. While posted will, the spirit of survival. in Bangladesh, Hansen ventured into the Hansen just contributed to an teeming slums by the railroad tracks, the exhibition of black-and-white portraits of shelters for victims of acid attacks, the metal- urban refugees in Kathmandu from Burma, strewn beaches where supertankers are Bangladesh, Pakistan and Somalia. What beached to be dismantled for scrap. comes across from those portraits are not PICS: JAN MØLLER HANSEN “The life of a diplomat can get a bit boring despair and hopelessness, but stories of eins curl in a gnarled arm like the bark on with expats and clubs, and photography was families focused on finding a future. an old tree trunk. A refugee girl’s bright, a bad excuse for me to meet people I would “People ask me why I am always Valert eyes are windows to a homeland otherwise never get to meet, connecting with negative,” Hansen says, “I am not. The people she has never seen. A transgender person them and telling their stories,” Hansen says. in my pictures may be poor but they have a posing for a formal portrait looks confidently When Hansen was posted to Nepal, he lot of dignity. And they all have stories of straight into the lens. A victim of an acid was happy to be back in a country that he survival.” attack, her face horrifyingly disfigured, is knew well from a previous stint 20 years Kunda Dixit a testament to the depth of greed and injustice ago as a volunteer. But this time, he was in our world. returning with his new hobby, and whenever nepalitimes.com Photographer Jan Møller Hansen denies that he has some free time from his work at he goes out deliberately seeking these images the Danish Embassy, Hansen is off with The fi rst day of Dashain, #677 of the downtrodden and disenfranchised. He his camera bag, taking pictures along the Forget us not, #683 State of statelessness, #712 says photography is all about telling a story, recycling shops along the Bagmati, refugee

Sky High at the China Town Restaurant hen my editor told me about a new lounge Wat Lajimpat that hip PICS: RUBY TUESDAY Kathmanduites are flocking to and asked me to go review it, I was The food is filling and the most excited by the name of this portions generous. Also it is very new place - Sky High. I imagined reasonable; our meal for two came it to be on the rooftop of one of under Rs 1500. This probably these teetering high buildings that explains its popularity because have cropped up and, if notable ultimately we all are in search of a for nothing else, at least provide restaurant that serves good food at a bird’s eye view of the city. prices that won’t break the bank. Imagine my disappointment when Ruby Tuesday I discovered that it was merely on the third floor of the building that decision was taken to revamp plate of cold cucumber (Rs 150) fins, tail, head (inclusive of a How to get there: The China Town houses the Big Mart department their terrace as a lounge, offer was replete with flavours of fish beady staring eye intact) and Restaurant and Sky High Lounge store - not nearly high enough to live music three times a week and sauce and fermented black beans, all its bones. This dish calls for are above Big Mart Department drown out the cacophony from the an open mic on the other days, tanginess from freshly squeezed careful detailed eating but it Store in Lajimpat. busy street below and definitely and thus Sky High was born. The lemon sauce and a mild sweet is worth the effort. The tender not deserving of such lofty name. food and kitchen, however, is still aftertaste from the sweet soy flesh flakes off easily and is The menu was offered from clearly the domain of the China sauce. I liked that the cucumbers cooked so delicately, it almost the China Town Restaurant, a floor Town Restaurant. were served sliced thickly melts in the mouth. The sweet below. The head waiter explained We were there for a leisurely and retained their crunch and brinjal dry chilli (Rs 190) was a why this was so, telling us its long lunch and after hearing the back- moisture. revelation into why the humble history. China Town restaurant story, we promptly descended We skipped the other eggplant deserves to be named opened 21 years ago and was into the cool dining room appetisers and rushed headlong among the most versatile one of the first to serve authentic below. Although an attempt has into our spicy oriental lunch. The vegetables in the world. It not Chinese cuisine in Kathmandu been made to create a relaxing, pork ribs (Rs 400) were ribs in only transcends cultures and and the first private restaurant to soothing space on the terrace, it is name only, as they could have cuisines, but so wonderfully hire a Chinese chef from China swelteringly hot in the afternoons. from any cut of the meat and were absorbs and takes on a variety (sic). As time passed and many The Beijing Soup (Rs 120 for drenched in a sauce so thick as to of flavours. And such was other restaurants opened, the a small bowl and Rs 200 for a be slightly cloying. The spicy fried the case here too- crisp and owners realised that they weren’t big one) was thick with minced steam fish (Rs 425 for half and Rs buttery soft at the same time, attracting any new customers. A bits of chicken, prawn and pork 800 for the full piscine) was, in sweet and spicy, humble yet and suitably satisfying. The a word, delicious. It comes with delightful. 14 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716

GIZMO by YANTRICK data is available, up to 10 per cent of adults have had this kind of heel pain at least once in their lifetime lasting from days SOLE to months. The surgeon’s story is indicative of “classic” plantar My tab fasciitis. For many people, it may be just heel pain for the first he recent trend of large screen sizes on smart devices looks set to continue THERAPY couple of steps in the morning and with the latest Samsung device, the Samsung Galaxy Note Pro (SM-P901) heaviness in the heel for the rest Ttablet. Boasting a massive 12.2 inch screen, the SM-P901 is a device that of the day. In some cases patients stretches the upper limits of what we call a tablet, seriously encroaching on may have heel pain when standing laptop territory. Samsung envisioned the SM-P901 as a workstation/laptop up after prolonged sitting or they replacement, and with the power and performance that the SM-P901 packs, may have a dull ache in the heel at it is easy to see why. the end of the day. Some people Cut from the same cloth as the brilliant Galaxy Note 3, the SM-P901 looks may note that the heel pain occurs and feels like a stretched-out Note 3, and sports the same faux-leather back, only after vigorous exercise and which feels comfortable in-hand, and looks like something you would like to this may suggest an “overuse” pull out of your bag in an offi ce meeting. The black variant in particular looks injury. The pain may decrease with more professional and premium rather than the white one. Unlike the Note 3, a proper warm up before vigorous the SM-P901 is fi tted with a dual-speaker setup, which occupies both edges of exercise. In severe cases, there the device, while the stylish S Pen is holstered in the upper-right edge of the may even be localised swelling device. The behemoth of the SM-P901 is in terms of size; it is surprisingly light in the heel if regular exercises is and thin at 750g and 0.31 inch respectively. An impressive screen resolution of continued despite the pain. 2,560 pixels x 1,600 pixels translates to a high pixel density of 247pp, Unfortunately there is no resulting in greater detail in everything from icons to videos, along single, effective treatment for with fantastic viewing angles, whether you are watching HD plantar fasciitis. Educating patients movies or getting work done. about their condition can be an The SM-P901 runs on Google’s Android integral part of therapy. Athletes mobile operating system with plantar fasciitis may need which is powered ver heard of Plantar heel. Other than this bothersome, to modify their activity and opt by Samsung’s Fasciitis? It is Latin for ‘sole dull ache in his right heel, he felt for temporary rest. Obese people powerful Exynos Einflammation’, and leads to completely normal with no other will need to lose weight. Not 5 Octa processor. It pain on the heel pad. The plantar complaints. There was no history walking with bare feet and using comes with a whopping fascia is a band of tissue that of trauma or any neurological shoes with good arch support 3GB of RAM, resulting in runs from the heel and supports diseases. He took ordinary pain and cushioned heels may help. ultra-fast responsiveness and the arch of the foot. A 45 year- medicines which gave him some Massaging and stretching the multi-tasking on another level. old surgeon at a local hospital relief. fascia in the morning, for example, The ability to run up to 5 apps started experiencing pain in his Like the surgeon, individuals by rolling the foot over a can simultaneously on the huge screen really who spend a significant amount may be beneficial. Besides taking is a treat, especially if you intend to use the SM-P901 for your offi ce work. of time on their feet either ordinary pain medicines, using ice Samsung has also packed the SM-P901 full of premium software for free, walking, standing or running on the heel pad after exercise or with the icing on top undoubtedly being the Hancom Viewer (for document may be more predisposed to just soaking the feet in warm water viewing/editing), e-Meeting (a conference app) and Remote PC (for this ailment. Athletes who are can provide temporary relief. mirroring/ remotely controlling PC/Mac) apps. The SM-P901 is also decked constantly pounding their feet Some doctors will inject out with regular Note series features like front and back cameras (2MP and DHANVANTARI on a hard surface are also liable steroids locally into the fascia, 8MP respectively), an IR blaster, 3G capability, and the S Pen, which really excels due to the extra screen space. The SM-P901 is bundled with a Samsung Buddha Basnyat, MD to suffer from plantar fasciitis. but this is a drastic measure for Obese people and those above pain control. In most instances Bluetooth Keyboard, which doubles as its cover. 40 may also may suffer from this the pain will improve within a Internal memory of only 32GB (expandable up to 64GB) is a minor right heel as he was operating on problem due to the excessive year or earlier even without any grievance, especially since the SM-P901 is intended as a work and multimedia his patients. He would typically weight bearing, and pressure on therapy. Importantly, plantar powerhouse. The battery life of 10 hours is acceptable. feel better for some time when he the heels over many years. Most fasciitis is not related to nerves soaked his feet in hot water. The experienced clinicians will make as this is primarily a problem of Yantrick’s Verdict: For those that believe bigger is better, pain was worse in the morning the diagnosis without doing any muscle and connective tissue, there is no current tablet like the P501. Everything about the after he woke up and walked tests just based on the history and so if there are any neurological SM-P901, its size, build and performance exude class. It is the around. There was increased pain the tenderness on the heel after symptoms (numbness or weakness tablet that everybody wants but, at Rs 90,000 (approx), one and tenderness when he pressed careful examination. of the affected heel) an alternative that only a few can get. his finger on the soft pad of his In Western countries where diagnosis has to be sought. 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 NATION 15 Nothing but contempt Under the new draft bill, it would not be possible to write this column

BINITA DAHAL

he Contempt of Court from the media. Bill submitted to the Another provision in the Tlegislature parliament earlier legislation is the one-year prison this month by the NC-UML ruling term for infringement which is coalition has come under fire from excessively severe. The purpose lawyers and journalists. Minister of the imprisonment and fine in of Law and Justice, Narhari the contempt of court is symbolic: Acharya, who is the chief architect a warning not to abuse freedom of the Bill, defends it saying it will of expression. The court and the streamline and clarify current rules justices cannot take advantage on coverage of the judiciary. of charges of contempt of court The Bill has defined what to ensure their dignity by forcing constitutes contempt of court: journalists not to write. insulting the judgement of a Journalists must be accountable court or judges, obstructing for what they write but shouldn’t the implementation of justice, be threatened by justices in the influencing cases that are subjudice, name of maintaining the dignity and recording of courtroom of the judiciary. They must own activity without permission from respect but what they are doing is the court. Anyone found guilty of seeking forceful respect through contempt of court can be sent to the new act. If the parliament jail for one year and fined up to Rs passes the proposed bill on the 10,000, or both. same grounds, that will contravene Critics are suspicious of the Bill many provisions of existing because it came after strong media national and international laws. criticism of Acharya’s support The main question is the timing for the nomination of eight new of this Bill, closely following the judges to the Supreme Court in controversial appointment of new May, some of whom were allegedly justices which came under severe tainted. Acharya, who is also one criticism in the media. Discussions of the members of the Judicial on the bill must continue, as should Council, is said to have prepared consultation with the stakeholders the draft of the bill on contempt of and it should be reviewed in the court in consultation with fellow context of contemporary laws on members and several other judges. frequent exposés of corrupt judges, about court proceedings can come considered a contempt of court. freedom of expression, the right to A Contempt of Court Act, stifling such investigative reports under contempt of court, but Section 13 which defines information and other international media freedom activists say, would undermine democracy. ‘misleading’ is not defined thus the sanction must be reviewed. human rights provisions. would seriously curtail freedom In any democratic framework, opening up the media to selective The objective of the Contempt of of expression guaranteed by the the judiciary can be subject to witch hunts. Court Act should be to uphold the constitution. The Bill appears to the same level of scrutiny as the Section 4 (d) provides excessive authority and impartiality of the have been hurriedly drafted with parliamentary and executive protection to judges and could courts, but this is not protected or the intention of rushing it through branches. Section 4 of the Bill inhibit the media from exposing commanded. Rather it is earned Binita Dahal is a the legislature to muzzle the media. in particular must be reviewed instances of judicial corruption. by safeguarding the fundamental reporter at Most countries have Contempt before it is passed by parliament. Similarly section 4(h) says that rights of citizens. The role of BBC Nepali Service. of Court laws, but if it is used to It says undermining the public media houses can be charged if media is to expose biased verdicts restrict the ability of journalists trust of the judiciary can lead to they publish any information with evidence, not to protect nepalitimes.com to write on the wrongdoings of a contempt of court charge. This on restricted cases. But it has the dignity of court. The respect Conempt of freedom, #714 judges, then the reputation of the provision is vague and can be not defined on what grounds the towards judiciary and justices When the hammer comes down, #715 judiciary itself will suffer. In a misused against anyone. It says court can restrict cases. Under must come spontaneously, they Muzzling the media, #713 country where there have been spreading misleading information these rules, this column would be shouldn’t seek enforced silence

Himalmedia is looking for Marketing We are looking for goal-oriented, committed Executives to augment the current sales and hard-working young professionals team of its trend-setting products: aspiring for a career in media. LET’S Nepali Times, Himal Khabarpatrika and their online editions. Selection will be weighted in favour of SEND APPLICATIONS TO: SCOOT female candidates, two-wheel riders, HR Department Himalmedia, Although previous experience in knowledge of MS Excel, Indesign, web GPO Box 7251, Kathmandu, Nepal media sales is a big plus, apply if design for multiple platforms and [email protected] OFF you think you have strong marketing, applications. Deadline: 10 July, 2014 inter-personal communication and Shortlisted candidates will be presentation skills. Why wait? Let’s scoot off . notifi ed and called for interview. 16 NATION 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 Commissions of convenience “We can’t live as victims forever, we need closure. If the sacrifice of our relatives is recognised it would help the healing process.”

TRISHNA RANA government set up another six-member committee with officials from the PMO, Law or war victims and human Ministry and the Ministry rights activists gathered of Peace and Reconciliation. Fat the Supreme Court on Undermining all previous efforts the morning of 10 July for the to create a victim-centric TRC hearing on their writ petition, and disappearance bill that met it was to be a tedious and international standards, three frustrating day. More than 200 politicians from the NC, UML victims had filed a petition and UCPN (Maoists) ultimately demanding amendments to the decided the fate of Nepal’s Commission on Investigation transitional justice mechanism of Missing Persons, Truth, and in April. Reconciliation 2070 Bill tabled “It’s unfortunate that the in parliament in April. process is now stuck in court But hopes of a speedy again. But I think a common hearing were crushed as ground exists for all of us – the bench of three justices JOB DONE: Janak Bahadur Raut (far right) and Suman Adhikari (second from right) with other members of the government taskforce before victims, politicians, security postponed the case citing lack submitting their report on the TRC to the Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction in April. forces – to reach a compromise. of time, without an alternate Those responsible for serious date. The court’s indifference war crimes cannot be given left victims and human rights mockery of justice but brings the to recommend a TRC bill in line the team insisted on holding amnesty, but those who activists wondering once again process back to square one. with the Supreme Court’s verdict. the meetings to give survivors committed lesser offences can be if the government is trying to It has provisions allowing For the first time, the team and victims’ families a sense of given shorter sentences or even intentionally delay the process. the Commission to initiate included victim representatives ownership. pardoned if they are willing to “Yes, it’s not possible reconciliation between victims Suman Adhikari, Manjima As issues of representation own up to their crimes and ask for the state to meet all the and perpetrators even in cases of Dhakal, and Janak Bahadur Raut and identity take on greater for forgiveness,” said Dhakal. demands of victims or provide serious human rights violations (see p17). significance in Nepali The existing draft bill fails compensation for all our loss. without the mandatory consent of But in a tactless move, mainstream politics, questions to meet international standards But it can prepare good policies victims. It restricts prosecution in the Ministry of Peace and about who speaks on their behalf of prosecution and reparation. and programs, provide education cases that are mediated to giving Reconstruction also included have become key concerns of However, the larger and more to war-affected children,” the attorney general, a political in the taskforce, former police conflict survivors. Unfortunately, central goal of a TRC is to reach said Suman Adhikari, one of appointe, and the Ministry of superintendent Chuda Bahadur the bill requires neither the to the heart of the conflict so the petitioners whose father Peace and Reconstruction the Shrestha, accused in the murder recommendation committee nor as to ensure non-repetition not was executed by the Maoists power to decide whether to of five men in Dhanusha in 2003. the commission itself to include just of the crimes, but of the in 2002. “If the government recommend prosecution. Shrestha resigned after victims victim representatives. oppression and prejudice that makes an effort to win our The draft is similar to the objected. Said Adhikari: “For non- led to violence in the first place. hearts and shows a genuine one that the Baburam Bhattarai The members were also told victims, the conflict was like For this to happen, justice desire to pursue justice, then we government tried to pass in to sit behind closed doors and watching a film. People are mechanisms have to go beyond victims might agree to lessen the March 2013 through an ordinance complete the report in 10 days. killed in movies all the time. The the narrow, legalistic approach punishment for those accused. which was eventually ruled “We were actively discouraged ones who suffered, naturally, to seeking truth and must But pressurising us into granting unconstitutional by the Supreme from holding discussions with are the ones who know about include provisions that promote amnesty is not acceptable.” Court in January 2014, and victims and other stakeholders. the pain and where it hurts the institutional reform and bring The final bill is a result lawmakers were ordered to make The official reasoning was that most. Others, no matter how about changes in domestic laws. of eight exhausting years of sweeping changes. since consultations had been empathetic, can only work Our bill is silent on both counts. political wrangling, court battles, There was a glimmer of hope done numerous times in the past, through assumption.” Said Raut: “Long-term and false starts. As it stands in March when the government the conclusions were going to be Eventually, the taskforce reforms like amending security now, the draft not only makes a set up an 11-member taskforce the same,” explained Raut. But report was discarded and the policies and regulations are a must if we are to make sure there is no repeat of past mistakes. Improvements within political parties and state institutions are also required so that these organisations are better suited to serve the people and our future generations can feel that they have access to justice.” A successful Commission is one that listens and documents the experiences of mistreatment, sufferings, and struggles of people during war even if they are not direct victims. It might be hard to verify each and every violation making prosecution impossible, but as experiences of other post- conflict countries have shown, sharing the pain of the past with the larger community can be a means of healing itself. Said Manjila Dahal: “We can’t live as victims forever, we need closure. If our stories are heard, if the sacrifice of our relatives is recognised and if we are made to feel like their contribution led to change and prosperity in the country, then it would help our healing process.”

nepalitimes.com The tale of two commissions, #702 True reconciliation, #661 Irreconcilable truth, East-West blog by Kunda Dixit 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 NATION 17

MANJIMA DHAKAL, 23, is a reporter at had to protect her siblings from a tragic The Rising Nepal. Originally from Hamdi in past and she has been active in the fight to Gorkha, Manjima was seven when her father uncover the whole truth about their father’s Rajendra Prasad Dhakal was disappeared disappearance. from Tanahun district by the police on 8 There is a sense of vulnerability, January 1999. An active member of the Maoist frustration, and hurt in Majima’s voice as party, Dhakal was a lawyer and chairman of she says: “Many in Nepal have turned the the Gorkha District Bar Association, and it transitional justice process into a means of wasn’t the first time he had been detained. livelihood and the longer it is drawn out, the In 2009, the Supreme Court finally better for them. But I want this to get over named police inspector Kush Bikram Rana with as soon as possible because we have as one of the prime culprits and provide the lived with mental anguish for far too long, family compensation and education. Except not knowing what happened to our father.” for compensation for legal fees, Majima says none of these measures have been nepalitimes.com implemented. Interviews As the eldest of three children Manjima PICS: BASIL EDWARD TEO Justice bearers

JANAK BAHADUR RAUT, 39, is were so many people who were chairperson of Conflict Victims’ beaten and tortured, how are we Society for Justice which works supposed to keep track of all?’” with survivors from both sides of It took Raut more than two the war. On 15 April 2005, Raut years to recover from his injuries was detained by security forces and trauma, and he is still weak. on accusations of treating Maoist Raut filed a case at the district combatants at his health clinic. He court in 2007 and in a hearing on was kept blindfolded, subjected January 2008, the court convicted to electric shock and other forms Colonel Kumar Lama, ordered of physical and mental torture for disciplinary action against 18 days at Shivadal Barrack in him, and asked the government Gorusinghe. to provide compensation. In “The government still does 2013, Lama was arrested in not have proper documentation the UK under the universal on the number of victims who jurisdiction on torture. The Nepal were tortured during the war,” government has been trying to admits Raut. “When we ask get him released through bilateral why, officials tell us ‘There negotiations.

SUMAN ADHIKARI, 38, heads the Conflict Affected Orphans Society and has been actively campaigning for justice for more than a decade. His father Muktinath Adhikari was the headmaster at Padmini Sanskrit Higher Secondary School in Duradanda, Lamjung district. Muktinath was murdered by the Maoists on 16 January 2002 on suspicions of being an “informer” and for not donating 25 per cent of his Dasain bonus to the party. The harrowing photo of the teacher’s lifeless body tied to a tree has become emblematic of the brutality faced by thousands upon thousands of Nepalis during the 10-year conflict. Immediately after the murder, the Adhikaris lodged a complaint with the district police, but there were no investigations. In 2011, the family filed a First Information Report against three suspects (Devendra Poudel, Sadhuram Ghimire and Dhruba Adhikari). A day later, Poudel was made the coordinator of the District Peace Committee of Lamjung. Says Adhikari: “The state tells us not to talk about justice because it will derail the peace process. What kind of peace is it where the victims cannot raise their voices? This will only sow the seeds for future conflict.” 18 FROM THE NEPALI PRESS 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716

2012, the decision was bitterly criticised. The same year, Prakash eloped with Maoist student activist Bina Thapa Magar who was also a member of the same expedition, leaving behind his wife and son in Kathmandu. Maoist leaders Prakash Adhikari, Ranjit Tamang and Indra Bhushal are Prakash’s partners in the business. Prakash was actively involved with the party for 15 years but doesn’t hold any post today. “I realise I have made mistakes in the past, and I am now working to correct those and change myself,” wrote Prakash in a Facebook status. Prakash raising livestock In the same post, he claims all his family property were spent on the Constitution Property Himalkhabar.com, 15 July encouraging Nepali youth to look building of the party and he had Bank note: Rs 50 million for jobs within the country, and to borrow money for his business not leave for work abroad. from his maternal uncle. Basu Kshtiz in Annapurna Post, 12 July

The controversial son of Maoist “I would like to request all “I do not have any

Chairman Prachanda, Prakash the youngsters who toil in Gulf responsibility in the party, neither QUOTE OF THE WEEK Dahal (pic, above) has now turned countries to work hard in Nepal,” am I in a position to do anything,” “ into a livestock farmer. Prakash said Prakash, who has in the past, he writes. But in a conversation Give us what we asked for in the budget, or bought a pig farm from Maoist been in the news for all the wrong with this magazine, Prakash said leader Gopal Kiranti in March, and reasons. he would like to take forward “ else we’ll make you pay through your teeth. had previously also bought a dairy When the Baburam Bhattarai his political career and business farm in Chitwan. led government sanctioned Rs 20 together. Prakash says his next NC CA members to Finance Minister Ram Prakash says his latest foray million for an expedition team to venture is beekeeping and plans to Sharan Mahat, in Jana Aastha, 16 July into livestock farming is aimed at Everest that included Prakash in buy some hives soon.

are referred to private hospitals that are better faced by the residents of Goltakuri. facilitated. “We don’t have enough equipment here – there’s More deliveries Women who give birth at health posts are given only one bed. So we can’t have as many deliveries as a ‘golden bag’ which consists of two sets of clothes we’d like,” says ANM Yamkala Budhathoki, before Khem Raj Rijal, Gorakshya National Daily, 10 July Hospital in Tulsipur. for the baby, one for the mother, and a mosquito returning to give saline water to a patient. “This is because we are experienced and net. They are also given travel expenses up to Rs The District Public Health Offi ce in headquarters people have immense trust in us,” says Kaushila 500 and other token fi nancial incentives to come Ghorahi has plans to upgrade facilities at Goltakuri In remote Goltakuri, Dang, they do not have KC, a maternal and child health cadre at Goltakuri. for routine checkups. SHP. DPHO Chief Keshab Raj Pandit says he wants transportation throughout the year and even Relentless campaigning for infants’ health has also Laxmi Chaudhari, a local who brought her to contract more health workers at Goltakuri, so that drinking water is diffi cult to manage. But in the last increased the number of attendees at vaccination daughter-in-law to give birth at the health post, says the 24-hour maternal services there can be better 12 months, 120 pregnant women delivered their camps. villagers are satisfi ed with the service but laments implemented. KC and Budhathoki have also been babies at the tiny sub-health post, exceeding the Every year, almost 200 women give birth at the how the government remains far and inaccessible, requesting for funds to build more buildings because number of institutional deliveries at the Rapti Zonal sub health post in Goltakuri. Complicated cases particularly when it comes to addressing problems the current SHP offi ces are small and cramped. 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 FROM THE NEPALI PRESS 19 REMOVING OBSTACLES “Bloodbath” Laxman Biyogi in Nagarik, sections in Thankot-Bhaktapur and Mahat also said the private ratopati.com, 16 July 14 July Khimti-Dhalkebar, the Kathmandu- sector would get subsidies for Tarai fast-track, and North-South investment in hydropower. highways have been delayed for Private companies that complete UCPN(M) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has accused the NC and UML of The government has said years because of disagreements construction in the next nine years trying to adopt the existing five development regions into the new federal it will take action against over property evaluation. will be exempted from income tax structure of the constitution. Dahal said the government is trying to extend the individuals and groups opposing The government will now for 10 years and will have to pay Panchayat-era demarcation of zones and development regions, and said this infrastructure development. In be able to take legal action only half the total income tax for would disrespect the aspirations of marginalised communities. his budget speech on Sunday, against those who delay national the next five years. “At the meeting of the Political Dialogue Committee, one UML leader Finance Minister Ram Sharan international obstruction on The budget has set aside wanted future provinces to be based on existing development regions. It Mahat announced a special any ground. There are plans to Rs 26 billion for infrastructure is clear the NC and UML have abandoned the principles of autonomy and program to deal with those draft a law that will deal with development. It has special decentralisation. Those on the side of identity and federalism, like us, must who create obstructions to land acquisition and property provisions for a detailed project unite and take steps against them,” said Dahal. energy, hydroelectricity, and evaluation. The government will report for the Kathmandu-Tarai infrastructure projects. also amend the Environment fast track to be completed within Although Dahal didn’t mention the person Acquiring land for Conservation Act so that pending six months. It has allocated money by name, it is understood to be Madhav transmission lines and highway projects will soon be able to begin to open up the tracks for the Mid- Kumar Nepal. He was speaking at a has become a big problem in their Environmental Impact Hill Highway and also construct 20 function aimed at bridging the gap the past few years and Assessments. bridges on it. Money has been set between various other Maoist splinter projects of national pride Mahat has allocated Rs aside to connect Dolpa and Humla groups and to forge a working unity. have been delayed. 26.17 billion for the energy by road. More than 525km new Dahal also accused the big parties of Various individuals, sector. He also announced road will be pitched and 498km obstructing constitution writing. political parties, load-shedding would end gravelled in the next 12 months “They say they want to pass their and ‘development’ in the next three years while 227km new dirt tracks will proposal without agreement of senior organisations have because projects like the be opened up. leaders,” he said. “If that happens, there obstructed hydropower Upper Tamakosi, Trisuli IIIA, will be a bloodbath.” and infrastructure Chameliya and Kulekhani III nepalitimes.com projects. The would get special provisions in Progress on hold, #714 construction of the budget. transmission lines

PICS: BIKRAM RAI 20 BACK SIDE 18 - 24 JULY 2014 #716 www.nepalitimes.com www.nepalitimes.com

And while we are at it, we could PAST PRESENT FUTURE also revamp the Signs of the times Nepali Congress DIWAKAR CHETTRI flag. Everyone ow that the #WorldCup the party by shedding the has forgotten and the #UMLConvention hammer and sickle flag. The what the four stars stand for, so we are both over, the country comrades are in the horns of a have changed the flag to remind us of N the constant infighting. can move on to the next point on dilemma: they have to distinguish the agenda, which is to speculate themselves from the Baddies about Clown Prince Paras and who have the same symbol, but There is a great deal the soup he has got himself into on the other hand they have to of soul-searching again in Thailand. Luckily, the show that they haven’t dumped going on within Thais have a soft spot for royalty the dream of transforming Nepal the Cash Maoists and ex-HRH can thank his lucky from a Himalayan Shangri-la to a after its election stars he wasn’t in Singapore when Communist Utopia. defeat, so here caught with pot, because he’d The party took a great leap is a suggestion be facing a firing squad by now. forward by staging a high-tec for a new party Meanwhile back home, Clown convention last week, although mnemonic to reflect its fresh new Prince Comrade Prakash, whose the drone it deployed at the outlook. sowing of wild oats has been a inaugural ceremony very nearly source of great embarrassment for decapitated the entire Bum And how his awesome Dad, seems to have Dev Clique as it lip-synced the can we leave mended his ways and has taken to Internationale from on stage. If out the Dash raising pigs. the UML party symbol is to be Baddies and We were happy to see that changed, the Ass would suggest their constant the Underfed Marxist-Leninists the following makeover to reflect threats to decided to reinstate portraits of its new technocratic image: take the their patron saints Comrade Karl country and Comrade Vlad inside the back to war? Convention tent last week, but They too need a only after the departure of invited makeover to reflect foreign delegates. The UML are their pyrotechnics finally true Euro Communists with because of the €€€€ they get from this new party faithful in Europe. icon. To move with the times, the Marxbad-Leninbads debated whether to rebrand and reposition The Ass

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