WITHOUT F EAR OR FAVOUR

Nepal’s largest selling English daily Vol XXIX No. 09 | 8 pages | Rs.5 O O Printed simultaneously in , , Bharatpur and 32.6 C 0.6 C Saturday, February 27, 2021 | 15-11-2077 Nepalgunj Jumla What if Supreme Court gives Communist Party to Kattel? The decision could make Nepal Communist Party (NCP) null and void, taking the warring factions to the state prior to May 2018 when UML and Maoist Centre had merged.

TIKA R PRADHAN After the Supreme Court on KATHMANDU, FEB 26 Tuesday overturned Oli’s decision, now both factions are making their The Supreme Court said on Thursday own strategies to prevail. However, a that it would pass a verdict on a case lot now is going to depend on the court related to the Nepal Communist Party, decision on the Nepal Communist which is in the name of Rishi Kattel, Party (Kattel) issue. on March 4, stoking speculation what Legal experts say broadly there are course Nepali politics could take, as two possibilities if the Supreme Court the decision could also be instrumen- decides to give legality of the Nepal tal in determining the fate of the Communist Party to Kattel. First, the Nepal Communist Party which is cur- Nepal Communist Party registered by rently registered in the name of KP Oli and Dahal in May 2018 will have to Sharma Oli and . get registered again with a new name. The Oli-Dahal party was registered Second, the Nepal Communist Party as the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) would be null and void thereby (NCP)—with NCP within brackets—at taking the UML and Maoist Centre the Election Commission in May 2018 back to the pre-merger state. after the poll body said it could not “There will be CPN-UML led by Oli POST PHOTO: SANJOG MANANDHAR allot Nepal Communist Party as and CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Police intervene as heritage lovers, conservationists and civil society members under the banner of Brihat Nagarik Andolan, a broad citizens’ it was already registered in the Dahal,” said Mohan Lal Acharya, an movement advocating a better, equal and just society, smash the concrete structure using rocks and sledgehammers at Kamal Pokhari on name of Kattel. advocate who was also an adviser to Friday. They are for restoring the pond using traditional methods. The Nepal Communist Party the Constituent Assembly. “Or else Oli (NCP), however, split politically and Dahal have to go to the Election after Oli’s December 20 House dis- Commission demanding any other solution move. Oli leads one fac- name for the Nepal Communist Party tion and the other faction is led by (NCP).” Dahal and Madhav Kumar Nepal. But bitterness has grown so much Who owns the constitution anyway Oli and Dahal had decided to between Oli and Dahal that it looks form the Nepal Communist Party unlikely they will go to seek another after merging their CPN-UML name to remain under it, as they have As those elected to protect the charter assaulted it and those with reservations emerged and the Communist Party of fallen out with each other. as the vanguard, analysts call for work towards its wider ownership and acceptability. Nepal (Maoist Centre). >> Continued on page 2

complete the unfinished task. When the Constituent Assembly announced the new charter on September 20, 2015, ’ Sushil Koirala was the prime minister. But at the centre, in effect, was KP Sharma Oli, elected leader of then CPN- UML in 2014, who played a key role in getting the constitution promulgated. The new charter was celebrated in Kathmandu and other parts of the country but it was denounced by size- able sections of the Nepali society. Those who opposed the constitution said various provisions further mar- ginalised them. Oli was a in hurry to take over the reins; Koirala wanted to get his name written in history books as a leader who oversaw the promulgation of the constitution; and Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the Maoist leader, wanted a vindica- tion that the demand of the “people’s war” that there should be a charter through a Constituent Assembly was finally getting fulfilled, analysts say. Their interests converged; they BINOD GHIMIRE years, the “major” parties—the Nepali refused to give two hoots about the KATHMANDU, FEB 26 Congress, the CPN-UML and the CPN dissenting voices—not even the lives (Maoist Centre)—had come together that were lost. In 2015, during the lead up to the con- to adopt a constitution. The April-May In October 2015, Oli became prime stitution promulgation, Nepal’s earthquakes that year had rocked the minister with the backing of Dahal’s Madhes-based parties were up in country, claiming nearly 9,000 lives. Maoist party, only to have the rug arms. Over 40 people had died in the The three major parties were in a rush pulled from under his feet less than a protests in the Tarai plains. to push the charter, saying the earth- year later. After squabbling for over seven long quakes had emboldened “their will” to >> Continued on page 2 Diplomats are meeting political leaders but Foreign Ministry is unaware The interest that foreign envoys show in Nepali politics during political instability is the result of political leadership giving them unhindered access, leaders and experts say.

ANIL GIRI dors following the system. It is the job KATHMANDU, FEB 26 of our leaders to inform us [of their meetings with foreign diplomats].” As Nepal once again faces political As per diplomatic norms, the instability, Kathmandu-based diplo- Ministry of Foreign Affairs is sup- mats are back in business. posed to record all diplomatic meet- With the Nepal Communist Party ings and engagements and the diplo- fractured into two and the Pushpa mats themselves should inform the Kamal Dahal-Madhav Kumar Nepal ministry. faction readying to file a no-confi- In interviews with the Post, party dence motion against Prime Minister leaders, Nepali diplomats and experts, KP Sharma Oli, a change in govern- said that though the job of a diplomat ment seems likely. is to hold meetings with the highest With the Nepali Congress emerging authority of a country to understand as the kingmaker in the changed polit- what is happening, it is also the ical equation, foreign envoys have been responsibility of party leaders and making a beeline for meetings with officials to inform the Foreign party president Sher Bahadur Deuba, PHOTOS: TWITTER Ministry and they should think twice to, presumably, understand the party’s Ambassadors from India and China are about giving easy access to the foreign position on which of the two factions it interested in the Nepal Communist Party. diplomats at a time of rapid political will opt to form an alliance with. developments. But the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to get a feel on possible party unity and Though time and again political is clueless about these hush-hush leaders of the Janata Samajbadi Party. leaders have been calling for a strict meetings between diplomats and “We came to know about the meet- imposition of the diplomatic code of Nepali leaders. ings from the news,” a joint-secretary conduct. The Ministry of Foreign Besides Deuba, the diplomats have at the Foreign Ministry told the Post on Affairs introduced one in 2011 but it also been meeting with second-rung condition of anonymity. “Neither our never came into implementation. leaders of the Nepal Communist Party leaders believe in us, nor are ambassa- >> Continued on page 2

C M Y K SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 | 02 NATIONAL Dang coal mines have become death traps What if Supreme ... >> CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 If the situation returns to the pre-merger, or pre-May 18, A worker’s death highlights the dangers of coal mines, where safety measures are flouted and inspection is non-existent. 2018 state, Oli is likely to benefit. The CPN-UML is currently registered at the Election DURGALAL KC “It is the workers who do not adopt the Commission in the name of Sandhya Tiwari. Tiwari is not a DANG, FEB 26 safety measures that are already in place,” known name in politics. A nurse by profession, she is from he said. “We have insured all miners and Biratnagar. Mohanlal Kami was crushed to death when taken all possible measures for their Many believe the CPN-UML was registered at the behest of a boulder collapsed on top of him while safety.” Oli on August 19 last year and that Tiwari is just a face. If the working in a coal mine at Ramche, Dang on Satya Sai Coal Industry has agreed to Nepal Communist Party (NCP)’s status becomes void, Oli can Monday. provide Rs 500,000 to Mohanlal’s family as take over the Tiwari-led CPN-UML. The 41-year-old from Tirsang of Ghorahi compensation. There are also chances that Oli could bring Kattel under his Sub Metropolitan City-19 was working Miners say despite the risky nature of wings and take his Nepal Communist Party, thereby keeping nearly 160 metres underground at the their job, they are not paid well. the name, the sun symbol and the party flag. time of the accident. His three friends who “A worker who digs a quintal of coal Analysts say if Oli gets hold of the Tiwari-led UML, that witnessed the accident could not rescue makes Rs 140. One can dig up to eight to 10 could give him an edge, as former UML leaders who are cur- him. quintals a day. Other workers who carry rently with the Dahal-Nepal faction may come to their “moth- Mohanlal had been working as a coal coal make Rs 70 per quintal,” said Basanta er party”. miner for the last 13 years. BK, who works at another coal mining site This could lead to difficulties for Dahal. He either has to His wife Shanti said it was desperation at Tosa of Ghorahi Ward-19. form a new party altogether or he could convince Gopal that drove her husband to work as a miner. Coal is being excavated from 12 places at Kirati, a former Maoist leader who has the CPN (Maoist “My husband was working in the mine to Ghorahi Sub Metropolitan City and Centre) under him. earn a livelihood. The day before the inci- Bangalachuli Rural Municipality in Dang. Advocate Dandapani Poudel had on December 7, 2018 regis- dent he had been told that they found water At least five miners have died and four tered a writ petition at the Supreme Court, on behalf of in the tunnel. I had told him not to go but others have sustained serious injuries in Kattel, demanding that the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) led he did not listen,’ she said. the last 10 years. by Oli and Dahal be scrapped as its registration violates Tirsang is located on a geographically Although coal excavation in the district Clause 6(e) of the Political Parties Act-2017. remote area between the border of Dang began almost 25 years ago, these mines are The clause states that a new party cannot be registered if and Rolpa districts, 21 km north from the not being inspected or monitored. the name and party’s emblem resemble those of a party district headquarters. According to Mines and Minerals Rules, already registered with the Election Commission. The place is arid with little farming 1999, there should be appropriate safety Poudel in his petition claimed that the ruling party had prospect. As a result most men in the vil- measures to avoid any accident in a tunnel, used power to get Nepal Communist Party (NCP) registered lage work in coal mines to support their well, and pits made in course of excavation even though Nepal Communist Party was already registered families. of mines. in the name of Kattel. “There’s no other work available in the According to the government policy, the “It’s like Oli’s dissolution case--there is no legal ground for village. We don’t have irrigation facilities District Coordination Committee in the Oli and Dahal to get the name,” Poudel told the Post. “They here to grow crops. So most of the people district should inspect the mines on a regu- had abused power and forced the commission to register the work at Ramche coal mine,” said Shanti. lar basis. The inspection team has the right Nepal Communist Party by adding NCP within brackets.” There were 15 workers inside the mine to scrap licence, stop excavation or direct The Nepal Communist Party (NCP) legitimacy dispute is on the day Mohanlal lost his life in the necessary guidelines for excavation if currently with the Election Commission, which has not given accident. POST PHOTO found the ongoing work against the rules any verdict, even though the Dahal-Nepal faction has claimed “We could not do anything to save him,” Neighbours gather to console the family of Mohanlal Kami killed in Monday’s mining accident. and standard. that it should get the party. said Shovakar Sunar, Mohanlal’s friend None of which has happened in Dang With the House reinstated, politics is either likely to get and a fellow miner. ers. We have been requesting the company adopting proper safety measures.” coal mines. deadlocked or Oli will continue to remain prime minister Harka Gharti, the ward chairman of to manage helmets, boots and other safety Lumakanta Budhathoki, the in charge “We are preparing to carry out field unless he voluntarily resigns on moral grounds because his Ghorahi-19, says Monday’s mine accident equipment to the workers. But the compa- of Satya Sai Coal Industry, claimed that the inspections soon,” said Jitendra Man dissolution move was overturned by the Supreme Court. was a result of the company, Satya Sai Coal ny has not paid any heed,” he said. “After company has adopted all safety measures Nepali, chief at District Coordination Oli could be removed only if the Dahal-Nepal faction moves Industry, ignoring workers’ safety. the incident we have asked the company and blamed the workers for not following Committee, when inquired about the situa- a no-confidence motion against him, but unless the Congress “There are no safety measures for work- not to resume work at the mine without them. tion of coal mines in the district. backs it, it will fail in the House. The Dahal-Nepal faction cannot even call a Parliamentary Party meeting, as its leader is Oli and deputy leader Subas Nembang, an aide to Oli. In a sudden move, Oli on Friday changed the chief whip. He removed Dev Gurung, a leader of the Dahal-Nepal faction, and Diplomats are meeting political leaders but ... appointed Bishal Bhattarai. Lilamani Pokhrel, a Standing Committee member of the Dahal-Nepal faction, said he cannot imagine the Supreme >> CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 The Chinese ambassador has not been using her official meetings of foreign envoys with their party leaders. Court awarding the Nepal Communist Party to anyone else “It is as good as dead,” said the ministry official. vehicle but going around to meet the leaders in a car with “I have been consistently saying that foreign interven- except them [Dahal-Nepal faction]. It is not just the ministry officials but even party leaders a red number plate used by Nepalis, a senior security offi- tion has significantly increased,” Narayan Kaji Shrestha, “It’s like Oli’s House dissolution case. I was always confi- that are unaware of what transpires in these meetings. cial said. former foreign minister and spokesperson for the Dahal- dent that the court would not endorse it,” Pokhrel told the “Foreign ambassadors and diplomats directly call per- “Some of these meetings are taking place until late night Nepal faction of Nepal Communist Party, told the Post. Post. “In this case also, I cannot imagine the court will give the sonal assistants of top party leaders to arrange the meet- so we are also not able to track and monitor all those meet- “When the state is weak, the state apparatus is not working name to Kattel.” ings and our party leaders do not make public their conver- ings,” he told the Post on condition of anonymity. properly, and there is political instability, the foreign Gurung, who was ousted by Oli as the chief whip on Friday, sation,” Narayan Khakda, a senior Nepali Congress leader When asked about the ambassador’s meetings with party manoeuvring increases. We are in that stage.” said that the Election Commission could ask them to get regis- who is also the shadow foreign minister, told the Post. “And leaders, a spokesperson at the Chinese Embassy said in a Khadka of Nepali Congress is also concerned about the tered with any other name than Nepal Communist Party they don’t inform the Foreign Ministry either.” text message, “The Chinese side’s position is clear and lack of institutionalisation in the process of meetings (NCP) if the Supreme Court decides in favour of Kattel. Indian Ambassador Vinaya Mohan Kwatra held a one- consistent, we want Nepal to maintain political stability between foreign envoys and political leaders. “Yes, conspiracies, however, are going on to revive former on-one meeting with Nepali Congress President Deuba on and achieve economic development, and the change in “There is a certain process that an ambassador should CPN-UML and former CPN (Maoist Centre),” Gurung told the Thursday, two days after the Supreme Court overturned domestic political situation of Nepal won’t affect China give two to three days for a meeting,” said Khadka. “And all Post. “We will see how the situation unfolds.” Oli’s House dissolution move. Before Kwatra had reached and Nepal friendly relations.” meetings between the leaders and diplomats should go Experts say it’s unclear yet how Oli and Dahal will make Deuba’s residence, Chinese Ambassador Hou Yanqi and In May and July last year when the crisis within the Nepal through the Foreign Ministry.” their moves in case the court decides in Kattle’s favour, which other Chinese diplomats had already held talks with him. Communist Party was at its peak, ambassador Hou and In other countries, the presence of Foreign Ministry will render the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) null and void. The position of Nepali Congress, with 63 seats in the other diplomats in the Chinese Embassy had met with officials is mandatory in all meetings between party lead- It’s too early to say if Oli and Dahal will seek another name for 275-member House of Representatives, is crucial in the President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Prime Minister Oli, ers and other government officials with foreign diplomats, their party or they will go back to the former UML and Maoist formation of a new government. The Dahal-Nepal faction Chairman of the Nepal Communist Party Pushpa Kamal Khadka said. Centre, which are registered in the names of Tiwari and of the Nepal Communist Party has 88-90 seats while the Oli Dahal and other leaders and stressed the need for party unity. “But in case of Nepal, if the prime minister, President Kattel. faction has 82-84 lawmakers. The magic number to form a Although the party practically split with Oli’s House and senior party leaders snub the Foreign Ministry and Former chief election commissioner Bhojraj Pokharel said government, or to pass the no-confidence motion against dissolution move, its reinstatement by the Supreme Court deal directly with diplomats, what will be the morale of the the Supreme Court decision on March 4 could work as a future Oli, is 138. has come as another opportunity for the Chinese side to foreign minister and the Foreign Ministry?” said Khadka. guideline for the Election Commission as well in order for it to Some leaders of the Nepali Congress, during a meeting press for the two factions to reunite, according to the par- The onus of ensuring that a system is followed and for- be more careful in deciding such cases when party names of the office bearers on Thursday wanted to know what had ty’s leaders. eign diplomats are given access lies with the top political clash. transpired during Deuba’s meetings with ambassadors “This time Hou is not interested in who will be the prime leaders, according to Bhekh Bahadur Thapa, former minis- “But in the first place, it was the duty of the Election from India and China. minister. Her approach that the party unity should remain ter and ambassador to India and the US. Commission to decide on the matter [back in May 2018],” “But Deuba refused to share anything with us,” a Nepali intact is steadfast,” a Nepal Communist Party leader told “It does not suit our top leadership to ignore the diplo- Pokhrel told the Post. “It was a mistake on the part of the Congress leader told the Post on condition of anonymity. the Post on condition of anonymity. matic code of conduct repeatedly. The way our leaders commission to award a party name to [Oli and Dahal] when a Kwatra also held meetings with Janata Samajbadi Party A senior leader from the Oli faction of the Nepal engage and meet with foreign diplomats, ignoring consulta- party with a similar name had already been registered with leaders. Communist Party, who is familiar with the message that tions within domestic actors or within their own political the Election Commission.” An official at Indian Embassy in Kathmandu told the the India, China and the US are communicating with the party, is totally against our own interest. It is us who gave Kattel, 70, had registered the Nepal Communist Party at the Post there is nothing new to share with the media about Nepali leadership, told the Post that India and the US are the space to the diplomats,” Thapa told the Post. Election Commission in 2013 after his party CPN-Unified split. those meetings as these meetings are part of regular on the same page on matters related to government forma- “I do not see any fault of the diplomats because they When the Bamdev Gautam-led CPN-ML decided to rejoin the engagements from the Indian side. tion to the unity of Nepal Communist Party while China is always try to rub shoulders with top leadership like the PM CPN-UML in 2001, CP Mainali along with Kattel had decided to Besides the government formation equation, the envoys, pushing hard in its pursuit for party unity. and others. But the state or the Foreign Ministry should remain with the CPN-ML. particularly the Chinese envoy, are also keen to learn about “India and the US are weighing various options on gov- know what has transpired between our leaders and diplo- Kattel joined left politics from the All Nepal National Free the prospects of unity between the two factions of the ernment formation and quietly following developments mats in those meetings. The Foreign Ministry is mandated Students Union 53 years ago. Since he was a vocal critic of Nepal Communist Party, according to sources. inside the NCP as they are much interested in the split of to keep records of all meetings, communications and corre- Madan Bhandari’s People’s Multi-party Democracy, he refused Besides Deuba, Ambassador Hou has also met Finance the ruling party and the future strategies of both NCP fac- spondences but it has been failing.” to join the UML even after Gautam went back to the mother Minister Bishnu Poudel, Home Minister Ram Bahadur tions,” the leader said on condition of anonymity. “The Officials at the Foreign Ministry blame the attitude and party. Thapa, Standing Committee member of the Dahal-Nepal Chinese are also not confident that the NCP unity will culture prevalent in the country. Pokharel said it is too early to make any predictions before faction Janardan Sharma, and others and inquired about remain intact even after the restoration of the House and “Until we change our attitude, culture, behaviour and the Supreme Court passes its decision. the dynamics inside the Nepal Communist Party and mak- therefore their concerns are mainly focused around NCP working style, we will keep on complaining but nothing “Let’s not project anything to happen earlier but if the court ing the Chinese preference for unity of the party clear, unification.” will be changing,” said the joint-secretary at the Ministry decides in Kattel’s favour, an already complicated situation according to two leaders of the party. But even leaders of the main parties are critical of the of Foreign Affairs. will be further complicated.” Who owns the constitution anyway >> CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 constitution. CK Lal, a political commentator and a col- ister of the right to dissolve the House. will prove to be good,” Ambedkar said in his Dahal and Congress’s Deuba, who was elect- After Oli’s House dissolution move, the umnist for the Post, said even the parties who This then raised the question of authorship final speech in the Constituent Assembly on ed party president in March 2016, led the gov- Janata Samajbadi Party was quick to take to called the “the world’s of the constitution. November 25, 1949. ernment in turns until the 2017 elections, the streets. The party also called Oli’s decision best” have failed to own it up wholeheartedly. Subas Nembang who chaired the Constituent Ambedkar stressed the need to work towards which then installed Oli in Singha Durbar, a blatant attack on the constitution and called “The constitution became a stepping stone Assembly for both terms and oversaw the a social, not just political, democracy. making him the custodian of the constitution. for protecting it. to power (government) for the then UML, a entire constitution-drafting process chose not Dinesh Tripathi, a senior advocate, said con- But around three years after assuming On Monday, a day before the Supreme Court platform for the Maoists to embrace main- to speak a single word on Oli’s House dissolu- stitution writing is one thing, and constitution office, Oli on December 20, 2020 brazenly passed its verdict on House dissolution, Janata stream politics and all that the Nepali Congress tion decision. A video clip of Nembang had building is another. assaulted the constitution, which he was elect- Samajbadi Party chair Upendra Yadav said in wanted was credit for promulgating the stat- gone viral in which he is heard clearly saying “A good ruler turns a bad constitution into a ed to protect, by dissolving the House of that they still have reservations ute,” said Lal. that the constitution does not allow the prime good one through its positive implementation,” Representatives. about the constitution but protecting it is the According to Lal, the present constitution minister to dissolve the House. Agni Kharel, said Tripathi. “However, bad rulers, like The subsequent two months were full of need of the hour. lacks the guiding principle which is the foun- one of the drafters of the constitution who is in our case, look for loopholes and lacunas to uncertainties. “We had our reservations when the constitu- dation of any constitution. the incumbent attorney general, was defend- attack it.” On Tuesday, the Supreme Court, through a tion was being pushed and we still have. But “Without a guiding principle, the constitu- ing Oli’s House dissolution, which the court According to experts, a constitution is a liv- mandamus order, reinstated the House of this constitution has guaranteed federalism, tion is just a set of laws and bylaws,” Lal told ultimately called unconstitutional. ing document, and it can be amended as per the Representatives overturning Oli’s December 20 secularism, inclusion and proportional rep- the Post. “The constitution without foundation Analysts say a constitution can get wider need and time. But when the custodians start move of dissolving the House. The Supreme resentation,” said Yadav during a book launch. is weak which can be misused easily.” acceptability only when there is authorship assaulting the charter, its usefulness comes Court order has been hailed largely as historic, “That’s why we have to come forward to safe- The 2015 constitution guarantees some and ownership. into question, according to them. for it helped the constitution prevail. guard the constitution.” important features like secularism, federalism In Nepal’s case, both are missing. Vijay Kant Karna, a professor of political Political and constitutional experts say Analysts say the irony over the constitution and republicanism in an attempt to effect It’s the drafters of the constitution who science at Tribhuvan University, said it was though the Supreme Court has helped bring within five years of its promulgation is uncan- socio-economic transformation, but as a whole, should come forward to explain how, when the collective duty of those who championed Nepal’s politics back within the constitutional ny, as those who pushed for it and were chosen it lacks the political philosophy. As a result, it they decided to guide Nepali society and polity the cause of the constitution, despite dissent- framework and saved the constitution from to protect it are weakening the charter and has a more legalistic approach. by a set of values through the constitution, ing voices from a large section of the society, to collapsing, it has left more questions for Nepali those who opposed it are calling themselves the “For instance, the American constitution there was a corresponding set of reasons. protect it. polity to answer, the foremost being who actu- vanguard. This exposes a deep problem, which has life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as Analysts say the recent turn of events has “Oli, however, was not the right person from ally owns Nepal’s constitution. goes back to the time of its drafting, according its guiding principles. Satyamev Jayate is the exposed the shaky ground on which Nepal’s the very beginning for the role to play as the “The constitution continues to be in danger to them. guiding principle of the Indian constitution,” constitution stood since the day it came into custodian of the constitution,” Karna told the because of a lack of ownership and increasing The Constitution of Nepal 2015 is the out- said Lal. “But the Nepal constitution is devoid being. However, weaknesses and shortcomings Post. “Oli’s actions show he pushed for the attacks on it,” Rajendra Maharjan, a political come of a seven-year exercise. Why it took two of such ethos.” of the constitution could have been addressed constitution in 2015 only to use it as a means to commentator and columnist for the Post’s sis- constituent assemblies was largely because of Analysts say a constitution must be read in had the custodians and those elected to get to power.” ter paper Kantipur, told the Post. “The dissolu- ever-squabbling parties. conjunction with the debate in the Constituent implement it had shown sincerity, according to According to Maharjan, the political tion was an extreme manifestation of Oli’s Nepali political parties themselves admit Assembly so that the justification of the values them. commentator, increasing attacks on the unconstitutional move. He has been attacking that it was the 2015 earthquakes that brought incorporated in the charter can be well under- Many say what BR Ambedkar, who is known constitution could take away the progressive the charter from the very beginning, directly them together to “adopt” a charter at any cost. stood and explained. as the father Indian constitution, once said achievements. or indirectly.” And in that rush, analysts say, the philoso- This is why lawyers during the hearing resonates even in the Nepali context. “Federalism, secularism and republicanism According to Maharjan, the recent criticism phy was missing. Since the objective was to against Oli’s House dissolution called on jus- “However good a constitution may be, if are salient features of this constitution,” said of Oli by Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Nepal over have a charter promulgated, it became a docu- tices to look to legislative intent. The lawyers those who are implementing it are not good, it Maharjan. “Constant pressure must be built the House dissolution is a farce because they ment of compromise with technicalities pre- were arguing that the framers of the constitu- will prove to be bad. However bad a Constitution for the ownership as well as wider accepta- were equally complicit in Oli’s assaults on the vailing over philosophy. tion had deliberately deprived the prime min- may be, if those implementing it are good, it bility of the constitution.”

C M Y K 03 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 NATIONAL EXPLAINED A year of pandemic teaches Everything you need to know a lot, but lessons not learned about Nepal’s carbon trade deal Public health experts say the Covid-19 crisis exposed a lot of weaknesses, which could be Nepal will receive $5 for every tonne of carbon dioxide emission reduced as country used as an opportunity to improve and prepare for the future. embarks on earning up to Rs5 billion by selling 9 million tonnes of CO2 by 2025. ARJUN POUDEL infected people or negative s-gene tar- “This is not the first and nor last KATHMANDU, FEB 26 get, there is a possibility that the virus pandemic but it exposed our weak- may have undergone mutations or the nesses, and the capacity of our deforestation and degradation of forest At least two new coronavirus vari- virus could be of a different variant healthcare care system,” added Dixit. areas,” said Poudel. “Therefore, as per ants—N440K and E48K—are spread- than the one commonly found in the “It taught an important lesson that the existing mechanism, we would get ing faster in some states of India in country. when a contagious disease spreads revenue from emission reduction from recent days, after a consistent decline “But no one is monitoring the muta- throughout the country, everything activities like not letting wildfire inci- in new cases. Along with that, several tion of virus variants within the coun- gets affected and we need to be pre- dents occur or increasing carbon stock cases of new variants first detected in try or those that might have come pared.” by increasing forest cover or improv- the , Brazil and South from abroad,” an official at the The coronavirus pandemic not ing our degraded forests. Both ways Africa have also been recorded in Department of Health Services, told only infected and killed the people but work.” India. the Post, asking not to be named. “We it also hit the health care system However, authorities in Nepal have have asked people who return from hard. Most of the achievements made What are the targets under the new decided to enforce mandatory quaran- abroad to stay in home quarantine but over the years in health care sectors— agreement? tine for five days to only those arriv- no agency is monitoring if those peo- maternal health, child health, nutri- ing from the United Kingdom and ple have been following the instruc- tion, tuberculosis and mental health With this Emission Reductions South Africa. tions or not.” among others—have been Payment Agreement (ERPA) in place, Over 2,000 people return to the affected. Nepal is expected to reduce 9 million country via the international airport “The ongoing pandemic teaches us tons of carbon dioxide emissions in and thousands of others enter from what kind of preparation is needed to the Arc Landscape. For each India via various land crossings every Doctors say officials deal with a potential new infection, tonne of carbon-dioxide emission d a y. and what kind of alternative arrange- reduced, Nepal will receive $5 in “The pandemic, which started a should have set up ments should be made to return. year ago, exposed a lot of our weak- whole-genome continue other health services,” Dr According to estimates, forest cover nesses,” Dr Anup Subedee, an infec- Keshav Deuba, a public health epide- in 13 districts can reduce 34 million tious disease expert, told the Post. “We sequecing facilities miologist, told the Post. “But I think tonnes of carbon-dioxide between could have used the pandemic as an we will suffer the same consequences, 2018-2028. Out of which, 23 percent (7.9 opportunity to strengthen our system at state-run labs. if a second wave of the coronavirus million tonnes) can not be sold as they and improve our weaknesses but I comes or any other new infection are kept as a buffer. think our preparation level is not dif- spreads.” “In case there is a forest fire, then ferent from before the start of the Doctors say the government should we may end up releasing more carbon pandemic.” New cases of Covid-19 have seen a have set up whole-genome sequencing dioxide as well as losing the stocked Nepal had recorded three cases steady decline over the past months. technology at state facilities and carbon,” said Poudel. “Therefore, we of a fast spreading new variant But doctors say that negligence shown concern to use the can not commit to selling all the of the coronavirus, the one towards the risks could be too costly technology available at private cen- carbon.” identified in the United Kingdom in for the nation. tres. Instead of dismantling isolation POST FILE PHOTO Of the remaining 26 million tonnes, December. “We should not forget that and quarantine facilities, they Nepal, home to 6.61 million hectares of forests and other wooded lands, has the potential to which is estimated to be reduced The Epidemiology and Disease countries which have successfully should have been improved. Health generate revenue from carbon financing by participating in the REDD+ programme. between the 2018-2028 period, only 10 Control Division said that at least 13 contained the spread of infections workers should be trained and pre- million tonnes are likely to be available suspected cases of the new variant have been forced to reinforce restric- pared psychologically to handle CHANDAN KUMAR MANDAL nificant achievement,” said Buddhi between 2018-2025 when the agreement have been found in Kathmandu and tions due to a rise in new cases caused cases, and polymerase chain reaction KATHMANDU, FEB 26 Sagar Poudel, chief of the REDD ends. Hence, the government has signed . Samples of those people, by new variants,” Dr Sameer Mani test laboratories should be utilised Implementation Centre under the the agreement to only trade 9 million who came in close contact with the Dixit, director of research at the properly. On Thursday, the government signed a Ministry of Forests and Environment. tonnes of carbon-dioxide for now. people returning from abroad, were Center for Molecular Dynamics “Active case findings are important multi-million dollar agreement with “A lot of work has happened in the last found positive in the polymerase Nepal, told the Post. “We cannot not only at present but also in future, the World Bank’s Forest Carbon ten year; therefore, we could reach How does Nepal plan to achieve the chain reaction tests but negative for rule out that such conditions will which should be done on a regular Partnership Facility (FCPF), a global this level and make our claims for target? s-gene targets. not repeat in our country. But I basis,” added Deuba. “We should focus partnership of governments, business carbon trade.” S-gene target or spike protein is one think we are not prepared for a on it. Awareness also plays an impor- organisations, civil society, and indig- For achieving the targets, Nepal has of the key biological characteristics rise in new infections or another pan- tant role in the success of any pro- enous groups’ organisation for reduc- What are the works Nepal has done outlined seven activities. The country of SARS-CoV-2, which enables the demic.” gramme, authorities should pay atten- ing emissions by protecting forests. to be eligible for carbon trading? will work towards improving manage- virus to penetrate host cells and cause Doctors say there is a chance for the tion to it.” Under the scheme, Nepal can poten- ment practices in existing communi- infections. country acquiring infections seen in Experts say separate mechanisms tially access up to US$45 million According to Poudel, preparations ty-based forest management. Likewise, Without spike protein, the coronavi- any corner of the globe due to people’s should be created to deal with (approximately Rs5 billion) by 2025 to have been made mainly in four sec- officials plan to transfer national for- rus cannot infect people but doctors movement. And even if the pandemic major epidemics and pandemics, mitigate its emissions by implement- tors. First, the government prepared a ests to communities that can work on say that if the polymerase chain reac- continues, there is a chance of several as the existing multiple layers ing activities as per the UN mecha- REDD+ Strategy in 2018 to guide the restoring them. It shall also support tion tests are failing to detect the spike emerging diseases spreading in the did not work properly for various nism called ‘Reducing Emissions development of a set of policies and and promote private sector forests. proteins in the swab samples of the country. reasons. through Deforestation and programmes that address the drivers According to Poudel, nearly 30,000 Degradation’ (REDD). of deforestation and forest degrada- hectares of private forests exist in 13 Here is everything you need to tion. For the implementation of the districts. The government also aims to know about the latest agreement and REDD+ Strategy, various 75 activities encourage the use of alternative ener- its significance: were outlined. gy resources as well as work on lease- hold forests. Likewise, it plans to Why was Nepal selected for reducing improve integrated land use planning its emission levels? In 2018, Nepal to reduce forest conversion for infra- structure development and promote As a least developed country, Nepal is submitted proposal better management of existing pro- eligible to sell carbon to developed tected areas in the country. countries that want to offset their to the World Bank “The government will also work emissions under the Reducing towards minimising haphazard devel- Emissions through Deforestation and to implement the opment which ends up adversely Degradation (REDD) programme. scheme. impacting forests,” said Poudel. “Also, For reducing emissions, countries we can’t forget the protected areas. implement a collection of actions The government can not only focus on (commonly referred to as REDD+). The government also developed the protecting forests outside while pro- The REDD+ is a framework created Emission Reduction Program tected parks experience degradation by the UN Framework Convention on Document (ERPD), a 253-page propos- of forests.” Climate Change’s Conference of the al, which will be a guiding document Parties (COP) to guide activities in the for implementing activities under the When and how the carbon stock will forest sector to reduce emissions from new agreement. It also prepared the be measured? deforestation and forest degradation, Safeguards Information System for and to enhance forest carbon stock, meeting social and environmental For receiving the revenue from carbon adopt sustainable land use manage- safeguards for promoting gender and financing, the stock of carbon will be ment in developing countries. indigenous issues as well as preserv- measured twice—once in 2021 and In exchange for their contribution ing indigenous knowledge while then in 2025, the final year of the to bringing down emissions, countries implementing the REDD, among oth- agreement—for determining how such as Nepal are given a certain ers. The government also completed Nepal has reduced its carbon-dioxide amount of money. the national forest reference emis- emissions through the REDD pro- “Nepal’s Emission Reductions sions level and measurement, report- gramme. Program builds on more than three ing, and verification of carbon stocked According to Poudel, the carbon decades of successful community for- in its forests. absorbed in the forests does not equal estry,” said Faris Hadad-Zervos, the carbon-dioxide emissions, as a ton of World Bank’s Nepal Country Director. How will Nepal reduce emissions to carbon can produce 3.67 tonnes of “The emissions reduction purchase is access benefits as per the carbon carbon dioxide. one pillar of a strategic program on trade agreement? “We have sold one tonne of carbon forest landscapes and climate action dioxide, not carbon, at $5,” said in Nepal. This innovative financing The government will implement vari- Poudel. agreement will address the drivers of ous activities at a sub-national scale in deforestation and forest degradation, 13 districts of the TeraiArc Landscape Will Nepal get all the $45 million helping incentivise further communi- (TAL), west of the Bagmati. revenue by 2025? ty action across the country.” “Forests in the Terai region provide Nepal had submitted a proposal for ecosystem services that are critical Although the government and the its project, ‘People and Forests: A for climate resilience, including World Bank have signed the agree- Sustainable Forest Management- watershed protection, and drought ment unlocking the potential to get $45 Based Emission Reduction Program and flood mitigation,” said Bishwa million in revenue from carbon trade, in the Terai Arc Landscape, Nepal’ to Nath Oli, Secretary at the Ministry of the country may not get the whole the Forest Carbon Partnership Forests and Environment. “This pro- amount. The amount quoted is maxi- Facility (FCPF) Carbon Fund in 2018. gramme will help protect forests that mum Nepal can receive under the are inextricably linked to the well-be- programme. Why does it matter? ing of many communities here and “This is completely a result-based across the country.” trade and depends upon how much we Nepal is the fifth country in the Asia- For accessing revenues, Nepal can deliver,” said Poudel. “For exam- Pacific and 12th in the world to sign needs to either cut down emissions or ple, one is paid as much as they pro- such a milestone agreement with the increase carbon stock in the forest. duce. But with business as usual, it FCPF. The agreement has been touted “We have two ways to reduce car- will be difficult to secure the entire as a landmark achievement for the bon-dioxide levels. Either we control funds.” country as this would be the first activities that increase the emission financial support for Nepal for keep- of gases or speed up carbon sequestra- What will happen to the rest of the ing its emissions low. tion, the process of removing carbon carbon stored then? “This scale of results-based pay- dioxide from the atmosphere and cap- ments for emission reductions is a turing it elsewhere, for example, for- The World Bank’s Forest Carbon first for Nepal,” said Finance ests,” said Poudel. “Only then can we Partnership Facility (FCPF), launched Secretary Sishir Kumar Dhungana. get the revenue for reducing car- in 2008, has worked with 47 developing Nepal, home to 6.61 million hectares bon-dioxide emissions. Carbon trade countries across Africa, Asia, and of forests and other wooded lands is not alike giving or receiving money , and the Caribbean, (44.74 percent of the total area), has for selling any commodity, but it’s along with 17 donors that have made the potential to generate revenue from about incentivising our efforts to contributions and commitments total- carbon financing by participating in reduce carbon-dioxide emissions.” ling US$1.3 billion. But this setup will the REDD+ programme. Nepal has For estimating the national forest be phased out in 2025. Then, countries been working for several years to reference emission level, a baseline like Nepal will have to find another become eligible for carbon trading or study was conducted to measure the buyer for their stock of carbon. generate revenue by selling carbon carbon-dioxide emissions from forests “Either we have to find new buyers stored in its forests. in the country. According to Poudel, to sell our carbon absorbed through “Nepal had been working on it for at the net carbon-dioxide emission of the REDD or wait for the same mecha- least ten years as part of the prepara- country was 1.2 million tonnes every nism to continue so that we can again tion for carbon trading. The signing year. trade with the World Bank’s Forest of the agreement is a landmark event “We can either control emissions Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF),” in our pursuit of carbon trade, a sig- through afforestation or by controlling said Poudel.

C M Y K SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 | 04 WORLD

BRIEFING Police fire into air to disperse protests as Indian coast guard rescues 81 Rohingya on drifting boat lawyer to Suu Kyi NEW DELHI/DHAKA: India’s coast guard found 81 survivors and eight dead on a boat crammed with Rohingya refu- says access denied gees adrift in the Andaman Sea, an Indian foreign ministry official said REUTERS on Friday, adding the survivors would YANGON, FEB 26 not be allowed to enter Indian territo- ry. Another refugee was missing, Police dispersed protesters in External Affairs Ministry spokesman Myanmar’s two biggest cities on Anurag Srivastava said on Thursday, Friday, firing stun grenades, rubber giving news of the rescue. The United bullets and guns into the air, witness- Nations refugee agency had raised es said, as the challenge to the army’s the alarm earlier this week over the bid to re-impose its rule showed no missing boat, which had set off on sign of slackening. February 11 from Cox’s Bazar in At least one person was injured in , where refugee camps the protests in the main city of have been established for hundreds of Yangon, a witness said, and a photo- thousands of Rohingya who fled neigh- graph posted by a media outlet from bouring Myanmar. After four days at the second city of Mandalay appeared sea the boat’s engine failed, and those to show a wounded protester in the on board had run out of food and back of an ambulance. water, Srivastava said. Many were ill Police were not immediately availa- and suffering from extreme dehydra- ble for comment. tion by the time they were rescued. The Southeast Asian nation has been in crisis since the army seized power on February 1 and detained US strikes on militias in civilian government leader Aung San kill at least one fighter Suu Kyi and much of her party leader- BAGHDAD: US air strikes against Iran- ship after the military complained of backed militias in eastern Syria fraud in a November election that her killed at least one fighter and wound- party won. ed several others in what US officials A lawyer for Suu Kyi, who is being said was a calibrated response to AP/RSS held under house arrest, complained rocket attacks against American per- Dancers perform near the burning Daljips, a wooden hut, to celebrate the first full moon of the Lunar New Year, in Siheung, South Korea, on Friday. that he had not been granted access to sonnel in Iraq. The attacks, which her, three days before she is due to took place early on Friday Middle return to court, adding that it would Eastern time, were deliberately limit- undermine her right to a fair hearing. ed in scope and designed to show that There have been daily protests and President Joe Biden’s administration strikes by democracy supporters for will act tough but wants to avoid a about three weeks, often drawing hun- major regional escalation, US offi- A year after first case, Brazil hurtles dreds of thousands of people across cials said. Washington and Tehran the diverse country. are seeking maximum leverage in In Yangon, hundreds of mostly attempts to return to the Iran nuclear young people congregated again on deal secured in 2015 but abandoned Friday but they largely melted away past 250,000 Covid-19 deaths when police prepared to move in. by former President Donald Trump in 2018, after which regional tensions Small groups gathered in other soared and fears of full-scale conflict places to chant slogans and confront grew. The US strikes targeted militia Virus spreads to Brazil’s vast interior as people move freely across the continent-sized country, experts say. lines of riot police who later fired stun sites on the Syrian side of the Iraqi- grenades and guns into the air to send Syrian border, where groups backed REUTERS Covid-19 vaccine. people scattering. by Iran control an important crossing RIO DE JANEIRO, FEB 26 Brazil is experiencing “a second “One house let me in to hide,” jour- for weapons, personnel and goods. plateau,” he said. “It’s not a second nalist Thu Zar told Reuters from the Western officials and some Iraqi offi- One year after the first confirmed case wave, because we’ve been over five scene. “I can’t leave yet as the police cials accuse Iran-backed groups of of the coronavirus in Brazil, Latin weeks with 1,000 deaths per day.” are very near and firing into the air.” involvement in deadly rocket attacks America’s biggest country has passed The virus is now spreading mainly A short time earlier, several people against US sites and personnel in 250,000 Covid-19 deaths, with the virus through cities in Brazil’s vast interior, were detained, witnesses said, among Iraq in the last month. still spreading freely as a national officials say, aided by a lack of nation- them a Japanese journalist, a col- vaccination drive struggles to gain al or even local lockdowns, which league said. Domestic media and wit- momentum. means Brazilians are moving freely nesses reported a similar situation in Widow of slain Italian envoy President Jair Bolsonaro, a far-right across the continent-sized country. Mandalay where police also fired rub- populist who has railed against lock- That has been crucial for the spread ber bullets. It was not clear how the says he was ‘betrayed’ down measures while saying he will of the new variant from Amazonas wounded man in the photograph was ROME: The Italian ambassador killed not take any Covid-19 vaccine, has state, which has caused international hurt. in an ambush in the Democratic been criticised for his response to the alarm and led to a frosty reception for Security forces have been more Republic of Congo while travelling on virus. restrained than they were during ear- a UN convoy was “betrayed” by some- Brazil has the world’s second-high- lier bouts of protest in the course of one close to the family, his widow said est Covid-19 death toll after the United nearly half a century of military rule. in an interview published on Friday. States, and over 10.3 million con- Brazil has world’s Military chief General Min Aung Luca Attanasio, 43, was shot dead on firmed cases, the third-highest out- second-highest death Hlaing says authorities were using Monday after unidentified assailants break behind the and minimal force. Nevertheless, at least ambushed a two-vehicle convoy from India. toll and 10.3 million three protesters and a policeman have the UN’s World Food Programme The highly contagious respiratory REUTERS been killed. (WFP) in the eastern North Kivu disease has killed 251,498 people in A woman at the burial of her aunt who passed away due to Covid-19 in Manaus, Brazil. confirmed cases. The army has promised a new elec- province, near the Rwanda border. Brazil, the Health Ministry reported tion but has not set a date. A vote is The ambassador’s bodyguard from on Thursday evening, tallying 1,541 not expected until after a one-year Italy’s Carabinieri police forces, deaths in the past 24 hours. Half of Israel’s population receives vaccine dose Brazilians hoping to travel interna- state of emergency the military Vittorio Iacovacci, 30, and a The situation in Brazil appears to tionally. According to the Health imposed when it seized power. Congolese WFP driver, Mustapha be deteriorating, thanks to a new vari- JERUSALEM: Israel has administered at Prime Minister Benjamin Ministry, the new strain has been Suu Kyi, 75, has been detained Milambo, 56, were also killed. “Luca ant that researchers believe is more least one Covid-19 vaccine shot to 50 Netanyahu aims to vaccinate all identified in at least 17 Brazilian incommunicado in the capital, was betrayed by someone close to us, contagious. Over the past two weeks, percent of its population, while 35 Israelis over the age of 16 by the end states. Naypyitaw, but her party and the to our family,” Attanasio’s wife, Zakia Brazil has recorded the highest daily percent have received the full two-dose of March-- hen he is up for re-election. After a slow and politically turbu- throngs of protesters say its November Seddiki, told Italian newspaper Il average of coronavirus deaths since course, Health Minister Yuli Edelstein He says that would allow for a lent start, Brazil has managed to begin election victory must be respected and Messaggero. “Someone who knew his the start of the pandemic - nearly 1,100 said on Friday. post-pandemic reopening of the coun- vaccinations, with over 7.5 million the junta must hand back power. movements has spoken, has sold him - exceeding the previous peak at the Israel counts East Jerusalem try in April. But the Health Ministry shots given so far in a country of more The daughter of Myanmar’s inde- out and betrayed him,” she said with- end of July. Palestinians, who have been included has been worried by waning turnout than 210 million people. pendence hero spent nearly 15 years out giving more detail as investiga- “The virus is circulating without in the vaccine campaign that began on for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The Covid-19 vaccine developed by under house arrest for her efforts to tions are under way. Attanasio, any control,” said Christovam December 19, as part of the 9.3 million To counteract this, it has been limit- China’s Sinovac Biotech, currently end military rule. She now faces who had been Italy’s chief diplomat Barcellos, of the country’s federally population. Palestinians in the occu- ing access to some leisure sites that Brazil’s main tool to slow the virus, is charges of illegally importing six in Kinshasa since 2017, lived in the funded Fiocruz biomedical institute, pied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are have reopened only to fully vaccinated effective against the UK and South walkie-talkie radios and of violating a capital with Seddiki and their three which is manufacturing Brazil’s not part of the Israeli campaign. people. (Reuters) African variants, the vaccine’s natural disaster law by breaching daughters. (AGENCIES) allotment of the AstraZeneca Brazilian partner said last week. coronavirus protocols. From India’s hinterlands to Hollywood: India, China foreign ministers to set How farmers galvanised protest movement up hotline as border crisis eases REUTERS area in the western Himalayan region NEW DELHI, FEB 26 of Ladakh, where thousands of sol- Punjab state, the movement has spread diers backed by tanks and artillery to the country’s northern and western India and China have agreed to set up have been facing off since April. farm belts. a hotline between their foreign minis- As per an agreement announced by The new farm laws allow private ters as the two nuclear-armed neigh- India’s Defence Minister Rajnath retailers to buy farm goods directly from bours look to reduce tensions along a Singh in February, the two countries growers, circumventing India’s govern- disputed Himalayan border where will now hold talks to end close prox- ment-controlled wholesale markets. For their troops have been locked in con- imity deployments in other parts of over 60 years, Indian farmers have been frontation since last summer. Ladakh. selling grain to the government at The decision was reached at a “Once disengagement is completed state-guaranteed prices through these lengthy call between the two foreign at all friction points, then the two wholesale markets, and they say the new ministers on Thursday, India’s foreign sides could also look at broader de-es- laws leave them at the mercy of large ministry said in a statement on Friday, calation of troops in the area and private retailers. adding that New Delhi was pushing work towards restoration of peace and More recently, a wave of global sup- for an quick resolution to the border tranquility,” the foreign ministry port for the protests has complicated crisis. statement said. matters further for the Modi govern- “A prolongation of the existing situ- The standoff in Ladakh began last ment. ation was not in the interest of either April, when India said Chinese sol- Pop superstar Rihanna, Swedish cli- side,” India’s foreign ministry said in diers had intruded deep into its side mate change crusader Greta Thunberg a statement citing the conversation of the Line of Actual Control, or the and US activist Meena Harris, the niece between Foreign Minister S de facto border. of US Vice-President Kamala Harris, all Jaishankar and China’s Wang Yi. China said its troops were operating tweeted in support of the farmers this On Sunday, both countries said in its own area, accusing Indian sol- month, drawing a rebuke from India’s their troops had pulled out from a lake diers of provocative actions. foreign ministry. The subsequent arrest of Disha Ravi, AP/RSS a 22-year-old environmental activist Police detain a leader of Kisan Congress during a protest against new farm laws in New Delhi. linked to Thunberg, on sedition charges for creating and sharing an online docu- REUTERS At its heart are three new farm laws ment about the protests has only galva- NEW DELHI, FEB 26 passed by the government last nised international support, advocacy September, thanks to the majority groups say. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Modi’s right-wing BJP enjoys in the South Asian advocacy groups in the is struggling to beat back his biggest lower house of parliament. US and Britain say they are lobbying political challenge in years from a pro- “To frame this narrowly as agricultur- those respective governments to pres- test movement which began with dis- al frustration wouldn’t explain the scale sure India to stop coming down hard on gruntled farmers travelling to New of what we are seeing,” said Neelanjan farmers and their supporters. Delhi and is now gaining wider support Sircar, a political science professor at “We are pushing for more action from at home and abroad. Ashoka University. the US government -particularly Simmering in makeshift camps hous- “This is about some larger frustration Congress--especially in the weeks ing tens of thousands of farmers since with how the government conducts busi- ahead,” said Satjeet Kaur, executive REUTERS last year, the movement has seen a dra- ness.” director of The Sikh Coalition in A handout photo released by Indian Army on February 16 shows the disengagement process matic growth in recent weeks. Led by farmers from India’s northern . between Indian Army and China’s People’s Liberation Army in Ladakh.

C M Y K 05 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 MONEY

FOREX Twitter considers US 117.85 Huge price differential triggers Euro 142.92 charging users for Pound 164.29 special content, in Australian 92.06 cross-border fuel smuggling Japanese 11.08 revenue push Chinese 18.23 Nepal and India share an 1,800-km open border with more than three dozen motorable crossing points. Saudi 31.42 AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE KRISHANA PRASAIN SAN FRANCISCO, FEB 26 Qatari 32.36 KATHMANDU, FEB 26 Twitter has said it plans to offer a sub- Malaysian 29.1 Gasoline station owner Mukesh scription service in which users would Exchange rates fixed by Nepal Rastra Bank Kumar of Adapur in the Indian state pay for special content from high-pro- of Bihar said he was being undercut file accounts, part of an economic by cheap contraband fuel from Nepal, model to diversify its revenue. PRICE PER TOLA with his daily petrol sales plunging The globally popular social media BULLION from 1,300 to 200 litres. platform announced the potential new According to Indian media reports, Super Follows service at its annual Fine Gold Rs 88,800 many motorists, particularly in Bihar, investor meeting, as it searches for are filling up at roadside vendors who new revenue streams beyond targeted Silver Rs 1,335 get their supply from border-hopping advertising. locals who smuggle petrol and diesel “Exploring audience funding oppor- SOURCE: FENEGOSIDA in jerry cans from Nepal because of tunities like Super Follows will allow the huge price differential. creators and publishers to be directly Residents owning a motorcycle or supported by their audience and will GASOLINE WATCH car are engaged in the lucrative incentivize them to continue creating trade, the report said, dashing back content that their audience loves,” a and forth across the border through- Twitter spokesperson told AFP. out the day. Top Twitter executives discussed Fuel prices in India are currently Super Follows while outlining goals the highest in South Asia. Petrol costs and plans for the near future during upwards of IRs100 (Rs160 Nepali cur- the streamed presentation. rency) per litre in India while it is “We are examining and rethinking available in the Nepali border town of the incentives of our service—the for Rs112.50 per litre. behaviors that our product features Diesel costs IRs86.57 (Rs138.51) in PHOTO COURTESY: CARTOQ.COM encourage and discourage as people India and Rs97 per litre in Kathmandu. Petrol being smuggled to India from Nepal. Fuel prices in India are currently the highest in South Asia. participate in conversation on The Post’s calculation, based on Twitter,” the spokesperson said. Friday’s price lists in Nepal and India, pared to last year at the southern bor- While Nepal imports all petroleum Rs5.82 and Rs4.13 per litre respective- Super Follows was described during shows that petrol is cheaper by Rs46 der points,” he told the Post. “If there products from India, based on five-year- ly. In a bid to stop the illegal flow of the presentation as a way for Twitter per litre in Nepal than in India. was rampant smuggling, it would be ly supply agreements between the two fuel to India, the government enter- audiences to financially support crea- Likewise, diesel costs Rs41 less in the reflected in the sales figures.” neighbours, why are they so expensive prise issued a work plan on February tors and receive newsletters, exclusive Nepali market. Poudel said that smuggling was not in India compared to Nepal? 19 and circulated it to all its regional content and even virtual badges in According to The Times of India, happening in an organised way, but Rising international crude oil pric- offices in Biratnagar, Amlekhgunj, exchange. petrol pump owners in Raxaul, said owners of two- and four-wheelers es is one factor. Crude oil crossed $60 Thankot, Bhairahawa, Surkhet and Twitter, which currently makes Adapur, Chauradano, Ghorasahan were engaged in gasoline peddling. per barrel for the first time this year. ; fuel depots in Nepalgunj money from ads and promoted posts, and Kundwa-Chainpur in Bihar are Consumer rights activists said Another reason is India’s heavy taxa- and Janakpur; and branch offices in might be able to add additional reve- claiming heavy losses due to smug- smuggling could create a fuel shortage tion policy, particularly after the Birgunj and Charali. nue via the Super Follows transac- gling of petroleum products from in the Nepali market. They said that if Covid-19 pandemic. As per the work plan, each regional tions. Nepal. Smugglers are particularly the illegal trade was not checked According to Indian media reports, office has to conduct sales inspections Creative Strategies analyst Carolina active in two dozen Indian border vil- immediately, the corporation’s losses taxes on petrol and diesel are higher of petrol pumps located up to 5 km Milanesi was not convinced people lages—like Bhiritarwa, Basantpur, could balloon as it would need to pur- than 61 and 56 percent respectively. north of the Nepal-India border. will be inclined to pay for special con- Semarwari, Bhaluwahiya and Bhagha chase more oil which it has been sell- Indian Union Oil Minister Company officials are required to tent on Twitter. in Uttar Pradesh—where there is no ing at subsidised prices. Dharmendra Pradhan explained that inspect at least five petrol pumps in Such a model makes sense for con- BIZLINE checking. Madhav Timalsina, president of the the central and state governments rely the border areas. tent on platforms like YouTube, where According to reports, in Ghorasahan Consumer Rights Investigation heavily on collections from taxes on Further, its depots are barred from hours of craftsmanship might be Ananeke becoming go-to place and Chauradano villages alone, there Forum, said that smuggling could cre- crude oil ‘for meeting their develop- selling fuel exceeding their capacity; devoted to producing entertaining vid- for beauty, makeover services are more than three dozen boys acting ate an artificial fuel shortage in Nepal, mental and welfare priorities’. and if they do so, they need to obtain eos, but it is debatable whether the as couriers, each earning IRs1,000 and it should be controlled by the local “They need some resources... (and) permission from the head office in same could be said for tweets on daily. They buy petrol at Rs113 per administration. this [taxing petrol and diesel] has Kathmandu. Twitter, she said. litre in Nepal, and sell it for Rs145 per As Nepal is going through a fluid been a proven and substantial route The work plan also says that petrol No timeline was given for when litre across the border in India. political situation, a short supply in by all the governments, whether state and diesel should not be sold in drums, Super Follows might become a fea- There is rampant gasoline smug- the domestic market could create governments or the central govern- jerry cans or other fuel containers in ture, but it is expected that the tech gling from Nepal, but Nepal Oil another problem, he said. ment,” he said. “Both the states and the border areas. giant will make further announce- Corporation says they have recorded “The smuggling needs to be con- the central government are raising Gasoline stations located on the ments in the coming months. ‘no huge’ sales trends at petrol pumps trolled immediately.” taxes according to their developmen- Nepal-India border can refill an auto- Twitter is also considering allowing on the southern border. The state-owned oil supplier has tal needs.” mobile’s fuel tank only, and sales to users to join communities devoted to Nepal and India share an 1,800-km already hiked fuel prices thrice in one According to Poudel, the tax struc- large Indian vehicles have been topics via a feature seemingly similar open border with more than three month, based on the tariff sent by its ture is very high in India. In Nepal, capped at 100 litres. Petrol pumps vio- to Facebook’s “groups.” dozen motorable crossing points. sole supplier India Oil Corporation. petrol and diesel are taxed at the rate lating the rules will face action under Twitter aims to reach a milestone Surendra Poudel, executive director On January 18, Nepal Oil raised the of 48 and 39 percent respectively. the Petroleum Product Bylaw 2018. of 315 million “monetizable” users in of the state-owned oil monopoly, price of diesel by Rs2 per litre to Rs93 Nepal Oil Corporation estimates Consumer rights activists and even 2023, a steep increase from the 192 denied there was widespread smug- per litre. In February, the price was that its fortnightly losses on the sale Nepal Oil Corporation officials say million it had at the end of last year, gling of petroleum products. raised twice—Rs2 per litre each time of petroleum products amount to that despite these measures, the lucra- according to a filing with US financial “We have compared the data. We on February 10 and February 17. Rs867.8 million. That means, the sub- tive oil smuggling business has not markets regulators at the Securities don’t see vast differences in sales com- Diesel now costs Rs97 per litre. sidies on petrol and diesel come to stopped. and Exchange Commission.

Actor Manisha Koirala and Ananeke CEO Surween Bantawa at the launch of one of the branches in Kathmandu. G20 finance chiefs meet on Covid China pineapple ban sparks KATHMANDU: Ananeke Beauty Salon and Spa is fast evolving into the go-to sour rebuke from Taiwan place for beauty and makeover servic- es. The establishment has already recovery, aid to poor countries opened several branches inside AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE and one in AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE proved their worth as crisis firefight- TAIPEI, FEB 26 Pokhara. Ananeke offers a range of MILAN, FEB 26 ing tools in 2009. beauty and spa services from its high- Washington urges Financial crisis-era SDR allocations Taipei slammed a sudden Chinese ban ly experienced team of beauticians G20 finance ministers and central amounted to around half the $500 bil- on Taiwanese pineapples, describing and makeup artists. Surween bankers were meeting on Friday to wealthy countries lion now under discussion. the move on Friday as “economic Bantawa, the CEO of Ananeke, align plans to relaunch the global to launch a global But a source close to the Italian intimidation” and likening it to tariffs believes in style. For him makeup and economy after the coronavirus pan- presidency dampened expectations of Beijing slapped on Australian wine. styling is more than a part of one’s demic and to limit the harm to the vaccine campaign. a quick deal, saying “it is premature to The trade to China—which views wardrobe but something that can worst-off nations shut out of the race talk about a sum” as “the decision on the self-ruled democratic island as bring out their confidence. He start- for vaccines. the SDR can only be taken after the part of its territory awaiting reunifi- ed the business with the vision of The video conference, which Italy On Thursday, Washington urged [IMF] has made a proposal.” cation—is worth around $50 million, AFP taking the country’s beauty industry was chairing as G20 president, is the wealthy G20 countries to launch a Last year, the G20 also agreed a and is Taiwan’s largest export market. will subsidise farmers. to a new height. At Ananeke, there first such meeting in post for US truly global, coordinated vaccination pause in debt interest payments for Beijing announced the ban Friday Beijing has ramped up pressure on are amenities and beauty prescrip- President Joe Biden’s new Treasury campaign. the poorest countries, extending it morning after saying it “found pests Taiwan since President Tsai Ing-wen tions which are not available in other Secretary Janet Yellen, who is expect- “Without access to vaccines, low-in- until June 30 this year. in pineapples imported from Taiwan”, took office in 2016, as she views the beauty salons And the place is being ed to be far less confrontational than come countries in particular will However, the impact of this initia- and said the rules were in line with island as a de facto sovereign nation talked about in the town . “Surween Donald Trump’s representatives at experience further tragic loss of life tive “hasn’t been as broad an impact mainland “regulations”. and not part of “one China”. and his team are really laborious and past gatherings. and needlessly delay their economic as had been hoped. The private sector But the island’s ruling Democratic Beijing has a record of deploying that’s the main reason for their suc- “With the new American adminis- recoveries,” Yellen wrote in an open didn’t participate in it and, in many Progressive Party accused Beijing of punitive levies during disputes with cess,” says actor Manisha Koirala. tration, it will certainly be easier to letter to her G20 finance counterparts. parts of the world, the China “ambushing” Taiwan with a political- other countries. Captain Vijay Lama claims the reach a deal” for increased aid to Yellen also signalled openness to Development Bank has not been par- ly driven ban, which came on March 1. Last year tariffs were placed on Ananeke to be the best spas in the poorer nations, international issuing new so-called Special Drawing ticipating,” the President of the World “China appears to be duplicating its Australian wine, among other items, country while actor Deepashree economy professor Lucia Tajoli of Rights (SDRs) at the International Bank, David Malpass, told Italy’s La actions against Australian wine last as relations between the two nations Niraula says the place offers the best Milan’s Polytechnic business school Monetary Fund to worse-off coun- Stampa newspaper. year to use economic intimidation on soured over the tech giant Huawei and hospitality. Miss Nepal 2020 Namrata told AFP. tries, reversing a Trump position. In November, the G20 finance minis- Taiwan,” the party said in a state- the origins of the coronavirus. Shrestha is also an admirer of the But while “Joe Biden’s approach to Several G20 countries have already ters also agreed a framework for ment. “We hope Taiwanese will sup- Taiwan’s Premier Su Tseng-chang place and its staff members. international cooperation is much suggested the move, after the financial reducing debt burdens. port Taiwanese pineapple just like the described the ban as “unreasonable”, “Ananeke has definitely come a more open... it won’t be easy to gather instruments—which can be exchanged So far , Zambia and Ethiopia Australians supported Australian saying exports usually passed safety long way... love the hospitality at funds given the economic crisis hit- for US dollars, euros, Chinese renmin- have asked for their debt to be restruc- wine,” said presidential spokesman checks in China with a nearly 100 per- the place.” (PR) ting many countries,” she added. bi, Japanese yen or British pounds— tured. Xavier Chang, adding the government cent rate. India exits recession with 0.4 percent quarterly growth

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE the expectations of a Bloomberg 2021-22 financial year, in line with the NEW DELHI, FEB 26 survey of economists pegging growth International Monetary Fund’s pre- at 0.5 percent, will nonetheless Construction and diction of 11.5 percent. India’s economy grew 0.4 percent bring some cheer to Prime Minister manufacturing look But experts have warned that India, year-on-year in the final quarter of Narendra Modi’s beleaguered govern- whose tally of 11.1 million infections 2020, official data showed Friday, end- ment. better compared to is second only to the United States, ing its first recession since independ- Key sectors such as construction could experience another wave and be ence as easing coronavirus restric- and manufacturing showed an the quarter last year. hit by new variants of the virus, as tions sparked a modest recovery. improvement compared to the same has happened in Brazil, Britain and The country has struggled to claw quarter last year, Friday’s data South Africa. The financial and film back lost ground after a stringent, revealed. India’s overwhelmingly young popula- capital of Mumbai imposed fresh pan- months-long lockdown caused the And in January car sales in the tion, as millions of migrant workers demic restrictions on Monday, ban- labour market to collapse and the bellwether automobile sector make their way back to cities, revers- ning religious gatherings and political economy to contract by nearly a quar- increased by more than 11 percent ing a massive exodus sparked by the rallies after infections spiked to levels ter between April and June. compared to a year earlier, according lockdown. last seen in October. India entered a “technical reces- to industry figures. “We can’t say we are completely out New Delhi is hoping that the sion” last year for the first time since Restrictions have been relaxed as of the woods,” Mumbai-based econo- economy will get a further boost from gaining independence in 1947 after coronavirus infections have slowed in mist Ashutosh Datar told AFP. a massive vaccination drive that registering two successive quarters of the country of 1.3 billion in recent “The real test would be what hap- kicked off last month but which is contraction. The government now weeks, allowing economic activity to pens next financial year. Today’s num- already running behind schedule, estimates annual GDP will fall eight resume. ber is not a major surprise,” he said. with 12.2 million shots administered percent in 2020-21. But the government still faces the AFP/RSS The government has forecast eco- so far to health workers and other The latest figures, which fell shy of tough task of creating enough jobs for Restrictions are relaxed as coronavirus infections have slowed in the country of 1.3 billion. nomic growth of 11 percent in the frontline staff.

C M Y K SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 | 06 SPORTS | MEDLEY BRIEFING Rodgers takes blame for Satdobato move Henderson out until April LIVERPOOL: Henderson has three points clear in joined Liverpool’s lengthening injury Leicester’s Europa League exit list with the Premier League champi- ons saying on Friday their skipper will be sidelined for at least five Slavia Prague stun the English side 2-0 at the King Power Stadium to advance into ‘B’ Division League weeks after undergoing groin surgery. The England international sustained the Europa League last 16 and the coach admits his team selection failed to work. the injury during Saturday’s 2-0 home SPORTS BUREAU the victory over the second placed defeat by Everton. “Henderson has KATHMANDU, FEB 26 team will give a huge boost for the successfully had a corrective proce- remaining matches. It was similar to dure carried out on the adductor inju- Satdobato Youth Club edged the final,” said Shrestha. ry. He will begin a rehabilitation pro- Khumaltar Youth Club 3-2 in top of Khumaltar’s assistant coach Binod gramme immediately,” Liverpool said the table clash of the Martyrs Dangol said his team came up with a in a statement. “No specific timescale Memorial ‘B’ Division League football good show but conceding in set pieces is being placed upon his return; how- match at the ANFA Complex, became the turning point. “We did not ever, he is ruled out initially until Satdobato, on Friday. play bad but conceding goals in set after the March international break.” The outcome meant Satdobato pieces affected our plan,” Dangol said. Henderson will miss league games moved three points clear on top of the “Hopefully this defeat will not affect against Sheffield United, Chelsea, standings and strengthened their title us in the long term.” Fulham and Wolverhampton bid. Satdobato have 19 points from Wanderers, as well as the Champions seven matches after the sixth win and Madhyapur pull off first win League last-16 second leg against a draw while the first defeat left In the late fixture of the day, bottom Leipzig. Khumaltar unchanged in second place placed Madhyapur Youth Association with 16 points. registered their first win of the cam- The entertaining match saw Dorje paign defeating Tushal Youth Club 2-0. Grealish to miss Leeds trip Tamang, substitute Ashish Rai and Dhiraj Shrestha and Kailash : Aston Villa captain Jack Bhuwan Basnet score a goal each for Lamichhane Khatri netted one each in Grealish will miss Saturday’s Satdobato. Khumaltar captain Sabin either half for Madhyapur. Premier League trip to Leeds United KC and Aadil Hamid were on target With the win over seventh placed as he has still not recovered from the for Khumaltar. Tushal, Madhyapur moved one place leg injury that ruled him out of last Dorje Tamang gave an early 11th up to 11th, replacing Pulchowk Sports week’s defeat by Leicester City, man- minute lead to Satdobato before Sabin Club at bottom. Madhyapur have four ager Dean Smith has confirmed. KC equalised for Khumaltar in the points from seven matches while “Jack won’t be available for the 26th. Aadil Hamid made it 2-1 for Tushal remained unchanged at sev- game,” Smith told reporters. “The lat- Khumaltar, scoring three minutes into enth place. est is he’s still got a little bit of pain, AP/RSS the second half. Substitute Ashis Rai, Dhiraj Shrestha gave a lead to Goals from Lukas Provod (left) and Abdallah Sima helped Slavia Prague snatch a 2-0 aggregate victory over Leicester City on Thursday. not too much. Jack doesn’t know and who came as a 46th minute replace- Madhyapur in the 23rd minute before the doctor doesn’t know how long this ment of Akash Rai, restored the parity Khatri doubled the tally scoring at an REUTERS will be. It’s not long term. He could be Arsenal needed a late comeback to a 4-0 first leg win. for Satdobato in the 61st before hour mark to seal the victory. LEICESTER, FEB 26 back for Sheffield United on secure their place in the draw for the Former winners Napoli bowed out Bhuwan Basnet netted a third goal in Madhyapur coach Jeevan Sinkeman Wednesday or Wolves next week, Europa League last 16 where they despite a 2-1 victory at home to the 61st to ensure victory for Satdobato. said that his side were pleased for the that’s how the injury is. We’ll be led Leicester City manager Brendan will be joined by Ajax Amsterdam, Spanish club Granada. Having lost the Khumaltar coach Rajesh Shahi was first win. “We are hopeful that the by Jack on that.” Villa are eighth in Rodgers shouldered the blame for his Manchester United, Milan and first leg 2-0 they got a perfect start sent off deep into the second half for first win would help raise our perfor- the standings but with games in hand side’s shock exit from the Europa Rangers but Napoli and PSV when Piotr Zielinski put them in front manhandling fourth official after ini- mance in the upcoming matches,” said of the teams above them a win at League after Thursday’s 2-0 home loss Eindhoven also crashed out. after three minutes. But Angel tially shown a yellow card for using Sinkeman. Leeds would put them in contention to Slavia Prague but said the competi- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s Montoro levelled for Granada and abusive language. Tusal coach Naresh Shrestha rued for a top-four finish. tion was never his top priority. 87th-minute header secured Arsenal a although Fabian Ruiz struck again for Satdobato’s coach Sanoj Shrestha the missed chances and his side lacked With the score tied at 0-0 from the 3-2 win over Benfica for a 4-3 aggregate the hosts on the hour, Granada held on credited the victory for the hard work proper understanding. “We failed to first leg in Prague, Lukas Provod and victory, but the Premier League side for a 3-2 aggregate win to prolong their of his players and the outcome would utilise chances but the opponents cap- Nadal pulls out of Rotterdam Abdallah Sima scored in the second had been staring at the exit door. impressive European debut. be a huge boost in their title ambition. italised on scoring chances,” said half at the King Power Stadium to put After the first leg, played in Ajax beat French club Lille 2-1 for a “We still have four matches to play but Shrestha. Open due to back pain the Czech side into the last-16. Rome because of Covid-19 restric- 4-2 aggregate win although it was LONDON: World number two Rafael Rodgers made a number of changes tions, ended 1-1, Arsenal’s home leg tough examination for the Dutch side Nadal has withdrawn from next to the side that beat Aston Villa in the was played in Athens and all looked who needed a late goal by David Neres week’s Rotterdam Open due to a back Premier League on Sunday, with comfortable when Aubameyang to calm their nerves. injury, the Spaniard said on Harvey Barnes, Timothy Castagne scored early on. Rivals PSV Eindhoven’s hopes Thursday. The 20-time Grand Slam and Ricardo Pereira dropping to the Diogo Goncalvez curled home a free disappeared as they lost a thrilling tie winner has been struggling with a bench, while Youri Tielemans was kick for Portuguese giants Benfica 5-4 on aggregate against Olympiacos, back issue since the build-up to the deployed in a more advanced position. just before halftime, however, and despite winning 2-1 on the night. Eran Australian Open and was forced to Rodgers said his team selection when a terrible mistake by Arsenal Zahavi’s brace appeared to be sending skip Spain’s ATP Cup ties earlier this had backfired. midfielder Dani Ceballos allowed Rafa PSV through on away goals but Ahmed month. “It is with great sadness that I “It’s my responsibility. I pick the Silva to put Benfica 2-1 ahead just past Hassan fired home in the 88th minute have to forfeit from Rotterdam,” team to try to get the result and that the hour it looked grim for Arsenal. to leave the hosts in despair. Nadal said in a statement. “As most clearly didn’t work as well as I would Kieran Tierney fired home the equal- Scottish Premier League leaders of the fans know, I suffered some have liked,” Rodgers said. “We’ve iser, however, before Aubameyang Rangers completed an astonishing back problems in that changed the team often because we’ve headed in from close range to seal a 9-5 aggregate win over Belgian side started in Adelaide and continued carried injuries all year ... we had to dramatic win. Antwerp thanks to a 5-2 win in during . We found a tempo- find a way to freshen up the team.” Milan squeezed past Red Star Glasgow. rary solution that allowed me to play Rodgers said his players would now Belgrade on away goals after their tie Villarreal made it through with without pain in the second week of shift focus to the Premier League and ended 3-3 on aggregate following a 1-1 a 2-1 defeat of Salzburg for a 4-1 aggre- the tournament. Once I got back to FA Cup. “If we had to prioritise, those draw in the San Siro. Franck Kessie’s gate win while Shakhtar Donetsk Spain I visited my doctor and togeth- would be the two we would want to penalty gave Milan the lead but Red and Dynamo Kiev advanced against er with my team they’ve advised not succeed in,” he said. “The Europa Star hit back through Ben Nabouhane Maccabi Tel Aviv and Bruges respec- to play this upcoming week.” Nadal League was one we wanted to do well and pushed hard late on despite being tively. has not played in Rotterdam since in, it wasn’t to be, but now we can go reduced to 10 men. Norwegians Molde caused a sur- 2009, and world number three Daniil all-in in the league and FA Cup.” Roma completed a 5-1 aggregate in prise by winning 2-0 in Hoffenheim to Medvedev will replace him as the top Leicester, who are third in the over Braga while Manchester United wrap up a 5-3 aggregate triumph and PHOTO COURTESY: ANFA seed at tournament, which will run Premier League on 49 points, host also eased through after a 0-0 home Bayer Leverkusen suffered a 6-3 aggre- Dorje Tamang, Ashish Rai (centre) and Bhuwan Basnet scored one goal each in Satdobato from March 1-7. (AGENCIES) Arsenal on Sunday. draw against Real Sociedad, following gate defeat by Young Boys. Youth Club’s 3-2 win over Khumaltar Youth Club at the ANFA Complex on Friday. HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) **** CANCER (June 22-July 22) *** LIBRA (September 23-October 22) *** CAPRICORN (December 22-January 19) **** You’re ready to kick things into high gear this after- There’s a lot to process on a mental level today, Give yourself extra room for processing, Libra. Last Get out of your comfort zone today, Capricorn. noon, Aries. The mood wades through productivi- Cancer. You’re filled to the brim with thoughts and night’s emotionally raw full moon may still have You’re itching to shake up your environment and ty-seeking Virgo, helping you tune into the needs of feelings, and today’s skies work to help you find an your head swirling in a world of memories and feel- refresh your perspectives under Saturday’s skies. your body and your current to-do list. outlet for this overflow. ings, so be patient with yourself. Find yourself a new adventure to engage yourself with today, however big or small

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) *** LEO (July 23-August 22) *** SCORPIO (October 23-November 21) *** AQUARIUS (January 20-February 18) *** As a Taurus, you have a natural appreciation for the There’s work to be done, Leo. That always seems to be As a Scorpio, you tend to instinctively deal with your Be kind with yourself today, Aquarius. You’re likely finer things in life. Let that instinct guide your choic- the case lately! Fortunately, the cosmos are support- problems all on your own. Saturday’s skies arrive still reeling in feelings after last night’s sensitive full es under Saturday’s skies, as the moon cruises ive of your drive to take care of business today, as the with the gentle reminder that you don’t have to take moon. Give yourself room to process any unsettling through sensual Virgo. moon roams through mentally-sharp Virgo. on everything on your own relationship material that may have cropped up.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21) **** VIRGO (August 23-September 22) **** SAGITTARIUS (November 22-December 21) *** PISCES (February 19-March 20) *** Rest is needed after yesterday’s emotionally-charged Be gentle with yourself under Saturday’s skies, Your career is asking for some attention under Relationships are your central focus under Saturday’s full moon, Gemini. Let yourself off the hook today, as Virgo! You’re in a sensitive headspace after last Saturday’s skies, Sagittarius. The moon roams skies, Pisces. Last night’s full moon likely stirred up the moon slides through reflective Virgo. It’s an ideal night’s emotionally stirring full moon in your sign. through busybody Virgo all day, directing your atten- some important revelations, conversations, or devel- day to reconnect with family members, beautify your Your body and individual needs should rank near the tion to any work that’s slipped through the cracks in opments in the partnership arena. home, or explore elements of your past top of your priorities today,. recent days. CROSSWORD SUDOKU

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION

C M Y K 07 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 CULTURE & ARTS Breathing life into movies In a landscape where the significance of sound in movies is neglected, Uttam Neupane, an award-winning sound mixer and designer, is creating sounds for Nepali movies that drive the story forward.

ANKIT KHADGI ed as a member of the Cinema Audio KATHMANDU Society. For any sound designer and mixer, being a part of such a prestigious hen Uttam Neupane institution is one of the biggest achieve- talks about sound ments, as the institution has hosted sound design, he speaks designers and mixers who have been with ease. “In simple awarded the Oscars. words, the role of a So, naturally, I also wanted to be a part sound designer is to of it and had been trying to be a member Wenhance the scene as well as the narrative of the Cinema Audio Society (CAS) since of the film through sound,” he says. 2015. But the qualifications required to be But it’s not as easy as it sounds. There a member were really high. While I was have been times when the National rejected in the previous years, this year I Award-winning sound mixer and design- was selected after the institution ana- er has had to work day and night to ele- lysed my works and two members of the vate the quality of sound for the many institution, Emmy award-winning sound projects that he has been a part of. He has engineer Marti D Humphrey and also had to battle the lackadaisical atti- Academy award-winning sound engineer tude many have towards the art of sound Gregory H Watkins, decided to sponsor mixing, as very few people, including me. filmmakers, actually understand the To be able to write CAS behind importance of sound in a film, he says. my name was always a dream and after However, while pursuing his passion my dream came true, I was extremely continuously for the past decade, Neupane happy. has been successful in making a name for Likewise, my film Selfie King (2019) himself in the field of sound designing was also selected in the competition for and mixing. And with critically acclaimed Outstanding Achievement in Sound films like Bulbul (2019), Loot (2012), Mixing in Cinema Audio Society Awards, Talakjung vs Tulke (2014), Dadyaa (2017) an annual award ceremony that is organ- to his name, and having worked with POST PHOTO: ANISH REGMI ised by Cinema Audio Society and to see Oscar-nominated director, Eric Vaili, in From whatever I have learnt through my that it was competing with films like Beyond the Clouds (2018), it wouldn’t be ‘In terms of sound design and mixing, experiences and learning is that you can’t Tenet, Mulan, No Man’s Land, Wonder wrong to say that Neupane is one put just any sound in a film because you Woman, made me happier. sought-after sound mixer and designer in Nepali cinema is evolving. However, I like it. There should be a reason and logic our film industry. behind it and every sound of the film As someone who has worked for dec- In an interview with Post’s Ankit believe over the years we have neglected should support its narrative. ades in award-winning films, in your Khadgi, Neupane talks about his experi- My approach is mostly to seamlessly opinion how important is sound for a ence working as a sound designer/mixer the importance of sound.’ embed the sound in the film so much so film? in the Nepali film industry, his collabora- that the audience gets lost in it and they tion with Oscar and Emmy winning film- don’t even realise it. As ironic as it may The power of sound is such that you can makers, and the significance of sound in For someone who has no clue artistic composition before the film is sound, I usually prefer making the sound actually make the audience believe that a film. Excerpts. about what you do, could you explain released. of the film subtle. It’s the job of every something is happening without showing the role of a sound designer and a sound designer to create sounds that can them. It’s so powerful that you can do What inspired you to start your career mixer in a film? From what stage of the project are you engage the people with the narrative of anything with it. I think the audience in sound designing and mixing? What generally involved? the film not with the sound of the film. won’t be surprised or taken aback if there were your earlier days of work like? So, usually, sound designers are the o I also pay a lot of attention to the are no visuals for a brief moment in the nes who are hired to look after the For any sound designer and sound mixer, details while designing sounds and try to film. But if there is no sound, or even if it Since my growing years, I have been sonic elements of the film. After the it’s best to get involved in the film before focus on the creative aspects as well. is high or low, the whole impact of the interested in music and movies. I moved movie has been shot, we receive a blank the shooting. However, in Nepal, that is scene gets affected. Sound is that power- from Rautahat to Kathmandu with the picture, and by using various techniques, not the case. Filmmakers only come to In your opinion where do the Nepali ful. motive of working in the movie we try to make people (the audience) approach us once they have shot their films stand in terms of sound design industry. While I was unclear about believe that a certain scene or an event is projects. and mixing? Any film suggestions you would like to which department I could work in, as I happening for real by adding the required But I usually prefer to get involved in give to our readers? had an inclination towards music, I sounds. projects before it gets shot, as this way as I think in terms of sound design and mix- eventually started studying sound design- In short, it can be said that sound an artist I can also contribute to the film. ing we are evolving. However, I believe ing and ended up working as a sound designers style the film and incorporate And there have been films, where I was over the years we have neglected the There are plenty of movies that have designer. and assemble the diegetic and non-dieget- involved from the pre-production stage, importance of sound. great sound design. I really like the sound The first project where I worked as a ic sounds that can enhance the narrative and because of such an opportunity, I Most of us grew up hearing radio plays design of La La Land (2016). Through the sound designer and as a re-recording as well as the director’s vision. along with the director of the film could that were broadcast by Radio Nepal. We Olive Trees (1994), 1917 (2019), Darkest mixer was in 2008. I had worked for a In regards to other countries, the actually use the sound of the film to take had the practice of enjoying art without Hour (2017), and Dunkirk (2017) also have short film Awaken Eyes in 2008, which Nepali film industry doesn’t necessarily the film’s narrative forward and leave an visuals. But from the time people started great sound designs. was directed by Binod Paudel. Then a have classifications in the sound depart- impact. watching movies, visuals started getting I am also fond of the sound works of A year later, I received the opportunity to ment. It’s mostly a one-person job. For instance, in Bulbul, directed by more priority than sound. Rainy Day (2014), Liar’s Dice (2013), Is work in a mainstream movie called Mero However, in other film industries, there Binod Paudel, there was a particular And this lack of concern and serious- love enough, Sir? (2018) and Photograph Euta Sathi Cha for which I was also felic- are usually many people who are working scene where the lead character’s phone ness is also reflected in the behaviour of (2019). Likewise, I also liked the sound itated with the National Award. under the supervision of sound design- would ring, and through the ringtone, the filmmakers, as usually the sound design- design of the recent Nepali short film, However, the more I started working, ers, like foley artists, who reproduce var- director wanted to depict the conflict that ers and mixers do not get enough time to Song of Cloud. the more I realised how little I knew ious kinds of sounds for the film. is happening inside her mind. As there work for films. about sound mixing and designing. That’s Likewise, dialogue editors, whose job is to was an opportunity for me to discuss with Any exciting projects lined up that why I decided to pursue and study assemble the dialogues delivered by the the director beforehand, we could actual- You also became a member of the pres- you are involved in currently? more about sound designing and actors, also work under close supervision ly use sound for the ringtone that was tigious Cinema Audio Society, and your I am working on a feature film called enrolled myself in an audio institute in of the sound editor. successful in depicting what the director film ‘Selfie King’ was selected in the Chiso Ashtray. Likewise, I am working in Chennai. After the sound designer finishes their had envisioned and increase the impact competition for Outstanding Veemsen Lama’s new horror movie The exposure and the knowledge that I work, re-recording mixers come onboard of the scene. Achievement in Sound Mixing in Kathaputali and Dinesh Raut’s Prakash. gained changed my perspective regarding and make the final decisions regarding Cinema Audio Society Awards. How do There’s also an international docu-drama sound, and as I realised the impact it can the sound of the film. They perform the Every artist has their own unique you feel about it? about the aftermath of a pandemic in have I started doing things differently. final mixing and blends of the sound of approach. What’s your creative Nepal, which BBC is producing. I am also the film, maintaining its technical and approach like? I felt incredibly happy when I was select- a part of it.

SCREENGRABS VIA YOUTUBE Screengrabs of Kabaddi Kabaddi Kabaddi (left) and Selfie King, two films Neupane has worked on.

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Fiction

1. The Touch of Eternity by Durjoy Datta 2. Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo 3. Hidden in Plain Sight by Jeffrey Archer 4. Suheldev: The King who Saved India by Amish 5. The Archer by Paulo Coelho Source: Mandala Book Point Source:

Non-Fiction Nepal: How India Lost the Unfinished: A Memoir Think Again 1. Twilight of Democracy: The Failure of Plot to China Author: Priyanka Chopra Jonas Author: Adam Grant Politics and The Parting of Friends by Author: Sanjay Upadhya Publication: Ballantine Books Publication: Viking Anne Applebaum Publication: Vitasta Publishing Price: Rs 1,118 Price: Rs 1,278 Private Limited 2. This is Not Propaganda: Adventure sin Price: Rs 792 Adam Grant in his new book delves the War Against Reality by Peter A New York Times bestseller, into the concept of rethinking, learn- Pomerantsev In this book, author Upadhya explores Unfinished: A Memoir is written by ing to question one’s opinions and the 3. Caste Matters by Suraj Yengde how China has become the ultimate bene- global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas. power of unlearning and relearning. 4. Simultaneous Identities: Language, ficiary to Nepal, rather than India, with The actor takes readers to her child- In Think Again, Grant weaves togeth- Education and the Nepali whom it has shared years of friendship. hood in Bareily, India, her teenage er research and storytelling to help The book further dwells into how the land years in America, and her return to readers build the intellectual and 5. The Presidential Years 2012-2017 by of the has become a focal point India, where she was crowned Miss emotional muscle they need to stay Pranab Mukherjee for the two Asian giants. India, eventually winning . curious enough to change the world.

C M Y K SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021 | 08 CULTURE & LIFESTYLE (C.R.P.D.) - 3/052/053 The wildflower trail After a spell of showers, at Meme Pokhari, in Kaski, an enchanting world of wildflowers and green meadows await.

TEXT & PHOTOS: RISHAV ADHIKARI

2. Around Khambachen, 2. Kanchenjunga I remember locals showing us this spot telling us that it’s the place where you will find a phone network when the weather’s clear. We headed to the spot, reached the point after half an hour of walking through wild bushes. The rain had just stopped and as a result the wildflowers were there— nodding away in the light breeze, as though waiting for us.

3. A blissful morning

The highs and lows of life, rain and 3. rainbows, sun and shade, mountains and their reflections. I had no idea it would look this surreal when I opened the tent and looked outside—rubbing my eyes with amusement. It was a beautiful moment of not knowing what to do next, whether to enjoy the view in the now or to capture it forev- er in my camera. All the time in the world was not relevant. I just sat there watching the sun rise first above the snow-capped high mountain peaks and then rest slowly on the pond beside our tent. Wildflowers came to life with the warm light and so did we, all the highs and lows were worth it.

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1. To Nupchupokhari, Kanchenjunga. For as long as I can, when the rain pours and the grass goes green and the wildflow- ers are in full bloom, I will head north. There is this beautiful feeling you get as you traverse through the high and lows and everything in-between, chasing the 5. wildflowers that grow in the nooks and crannies up north. You feel a magic in the air when you see them—over the hills, dancing nearby streams and small lakes, in the shadow of gigantic mountains. To see 4. them, touch them, feel them and understand that they all are so different, in colour, shape and size, and yet the same, is meditative.

6. A surreal reflection in Kori

Enjoyed the wildflowers? Now turn the paper upside down and look at the photo again. I was screaming with happiness with my friend when I took this shot. The day was clear when I took this shot and we had the and the Lamjung mountain standing tall in front of us, their reflection perfectly still in a pool of clear rain water. I composed the shot framing only the wildflowers, their reflection and the reflection of the mountains. 5. Kori wildflowers and an 6. abandoned hut In the highlands of Kori, the clouds are beneath you and everywhere you look you see pretty wildflowers.

4 . Taking a walk around Meme Pokhari After the rains had come and gone, we were blessed with a short window of perfect weather. Mountains were shining with warm light, and the blue sky and colourful wildflowers danced to the tunes of the cold wind. We walked around Meme Pokhari, in awe of everything that was alive around us.

Adhikari is a travel photographer based in Pokhara.

Published and Printed by Kantipur Publications Pvt. Ltd., Central Business Park, Thapathali, Kathmandu, Nepal, P. B. No. 8559, Phone: 5135000, Fax: 977-1-5135057, e-mail: [email protected], Regd. No. 32/049/050, Chairman & Managing Director: Kailash Sirohiya, Director: Swastika Sirohiya, Editor: Sanjeev Satgainya