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Dumped before use : The empty ballot boxes meant to be sent for polling booths, will now stored Beleaguered in election commission building. Koirala to quit once successor issue is settled

ä nf correspondent its first president and going for proportional representation system, The downslide is complete. From a but there was absolute majority national hero to South Asia's legend, against it during informal consultation GP Koirala is now counting his days among the members of the central since the prime minister is now committee of the Nepali Congress. looking for a dignified exit in the Like UML, some central committee backdrop of his failure to hold members of the Congress party like elections to the constituent assembly Narahari Acharya, Madheshi as scheduled in November. He may Janadhikar Forum (MJF) and National be quitting any moment now. Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NFIN) asked Koirala to quit. Koirala made what appeared like his last political wish when Maoist In fact, Koirala had confided in leader Prachanda and Baburam, some of the Nepali Congress UML Secretary General Madhav ministers on October 4 that he should Kumar Nepal and Congress leader quit simultaneously after the Sher Bahadur Deuba met him announcement to annul polls are separately on Sunday. He asked made public on moral grounds, but them to look for an acceptable way to he was advised against it by two find his successor, although he did not senior ministers, Ram Sharan Mahat make it clear whether he will quit and Ram Chandra Poudel, a before the special session of Congress leader told newsfront. "But parliament summoned on October 11 he has made up his mind after or face it as the prime minister. Koirala was told clearly both by Madhav Nepal and Prachanda Informed sources said that Koirala separately on Sunday that his was no longer keen to continue in the leadership would no longer be post after his failure, but wanted that acceptable to them any more." ä the choice of his successor should take place through a consensus among the coalition partners as the seven party unity was crucial to the peace process and future of democracy in Nepal. There are however, indications of serious tussles likely for the race to the chair of the prime minister with Ram Chandra Poudel, Sushil Koirala and Sher Bahadur Deuba from the Congress party, and Madhav Kumar Nepal from the UML as the likely contenders.

Although there were fears that Koirala could make any compromises to stick to the chair, he said he understood the rationale behind the demand for his head after his failure to conduct the polls. UML has already asked Koirala to own the moral responsibility and quit. "He must quit now," said education minister and UML's central secretariat member. Like UML, some central committee members of the Congress party like Narahari Acharya, Madheshi Janadhikar Forum (MJF) and National Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NFIN) have asked Koirala to quit, and no one from his party has come forward to save him.

Koirala still had the option of accepting Maoists’ demand for declaring Nepal a republic, becoming 2 8-14 Oct., 2007 News Twice 'incompetent' Koirala defaults on election pledge

ä nf correspondent

Prime Minister G P Koirala failed to keep his promise to the nation as the November 22 election to the constituent assembly was called off. And this was when the election commission was making all the preparations to accept the list of party nominees under the proportional representation system, on October 5. There were some representa- Pix by Bashwor Ojha tives of smaller parties with their More than 6 thousand people participated in the NRN- Springwood Marathon in the capital on Oct 6. The event was organised to encourage tourists to come to Nepal. headquarters outside the capital having assured a visiting Finnish who were waiting to submit the Minister that elections would not list to the commission as October be deferred under any circum- 5 was the deadline. Chief Election stances. The government Commissioner Bhojraj Pokharel decision came when the minister had assured them that he would was still here assuring the Outside concern start accepting their list if he did election commission that the not hear anything by ten in the Finnish government was ready to morning from the government. At extend all its support to conduct Mukherjee in Delhi, international community for peace 9.30, he got a request from the free and fair polls. cabinet that the electoral process The annulment of the election Annulment of the election process in Mukherjee polls would bring into question the was being annulled. process at the last minute has Nepal has come as a disappointment legitimacy of the political system, All that the commission did raised questions about Koirala's for the international community which many Nepal politicians claiming after that was to issue a press leadership. The election was has so much at stake here in Nepal. proximity with Delhi say Ambassador statement officially intimating that called off as the Communist Party The disappointed reactions have come Mukherjee has advised the PM and election process was over despite of Nepal-Maoists (CPN-M) from the UN secretary general to EU, other prominent leaders 'at his it being fully prepared to conduct insisted that they would let it but there seems to be an element of personal capacity' that parliament the polls. "Our being fully happen on schedule only if the sadness at personal level for Indian should declare Nepal a republic when prepared for the poll alone was GP Koirala led coalition partners ambassador Shiv Mukherjee. it meets next week. not sufficient", it said, implying agree to declare Nepal a Mukherjee who is waiting for a more UN Secretary General Ban Ki that it was the government which 'Republic' and go for proportional lucrative posting any time, most likely in Moon, the United States of America, was entirely at fault. This was the system of election instead of the London, was on an extended tenure as European Union and the Carter second time that the elections earlier agreed mixed system. he wanted to be around during the and the United States had met PM Center have expressed their were put off at the last moment, Koirala refused to accept these elections in November. Sad about the Koirala separately only four days disappointment over the postpone- earlier being in June. demands in full or in part saying it postponement of the election, he is now before the polls were cancelled. All of ment of the polls, and asked key Koirala has suddenly acquired was too late. Congress party in Delhi, ostensibly for medical them came back satisfied that players to take the peace process the image of a political defaulter, sources said what bewildered treatment, but clearly to brief his elections would not be postponed. "In forward. The Carter Center, like many both at home and abroad, with them the most was that Koirala bosses, Shiv Shanker Menon and fact, based on Koirala's assurance, other international bodies, was in the his coalition partners asking him kept insisting that elections would Pranab Mukherjee as well. Mukherjee, reports were sent to the headquar- process of dispatching many election to step down. His biggest take place come what may. He only about a month ago, had stated that ters stating that the government was observers to Nepal for the November embarrassment proved to be the had repeatedly said publicly in the no excuse would be acceptable for not determined to hold the polls on time," 22 polls. Its Chief, Jimmy Carter was newspaper headline on October past that he would quit if he could holding the polls on November 22. a diplomat told newsfront. also expected in the capital sometimes 5 in which he was attributed to not hold the elections on time. On Mukherjee's advice, ambassa- While Delhi has officially suggested in November to supervise the final dors from China, United Kingdom that frequent postponement of the preparation of the polls. The path and its fruit - Lamdre Coup vs coup His Holiness Jigdal Dagchen Sakya, leader of the Khon lineage of the Sakya order of Tibetan Buddhism has Coterie asks PM to sack top security officials been bestowing Lamdre, the central Sakya teaching and the original ä nf correspondent sion, as chief of the army to insulate daughter, Sujata Koirala, who of late Sakya Khon lineage transmission to the top level from 'royalists'. has turned into a pro-republican Buddhist practioners at Tharlam In what appears like a desperate The armed police chief has not changing her earlier stance that this Monastery, Boudha, Kathmandu move to rule the country through loyal come into controversy currently as country will move towards disintegra- since 2nd Oct. His Holiness has army and police, Prime Minister G P its head, Basudev Oli, is the Home tion without monarchy in some form. bestowed the teaching only four times Koirala's loyal coterie is putting Minister Sitaula's cousin, and he Army headquarters refused to previously, and for the second time in pressure on him to sack some key has time and again said he is loyal comment on the issue except saying, Kathmandu after 16 years. security officials, including the chief of to 'democracy.' The latest develop- “there are lots of rumours floating First revealed to the Indian from whom he received the unbroken army and the chief of Nepal police. ment comes in the background of around. We know that certain anti- Buddhist master Virupa in the Khon lineage transmissions. He also A prominent source in Baluwatar King Gyanendra going to the democratic forces were quite seventh century, the Lamdre passed studied in depth with two of this told newsfront that the PM chided Kumari temple on September 30, disturbed about Nepal army's solid on from teacher to student in a century’s greatest masters: Sakya them not to indulge in silly experi- minutes after Koirala took Prasad backing for pro-democracy forces." lineage that reached Tibet and non-sectarian Dzongsar Khyentse ments. At least three prominent from the living Goddess in the But there are clear signals of became the speciality of the Sakya Jamyang Chokyi Lodro and Nyingma Congress leaders, despite their capacity of the Head of the State. embittered relationship between order; and is considered the non-sectarian Dilgo Khyentse Rabsel internal rift, have advised Koirala to Koirala came back home furious Koirala and Katawal as the latter ambrosia of the Sakyas. It contains Dawa Rinpoche. sack Army Chief Rukmangat after the people there shouted asked the former to recognise King two sections: the triple vision with Dagchen Rinpoche has for over 30 Katawal and the Nepal Police Chief slogans against him. Gyanendra's right to religion and Sutrayana topics and Mahayana years taught the Buddhadharma in Om Bikram Rana, and have his Sources in Baluwatar said Koirala not to corner him too much at practices; and the triple continuum the USA, Europe and Asia. By loyalists appointed in their place if he felt it was too late to go for this drastic Maoists’ behest. Katawal is also that is intended to bring about total conferring this precious Lamdre was serious about thwarting what action although he has of late been understood to have told Koirala that transformation of mind. transmission outside Tibet, the they said an 'imminent coup'. They complaining that the army has not he (Katawal) has been pacifying Dagchen Rinpoche was born into Rinpoche is happy to be able to reach also advised him to appoint Kul been cooperating with him. Those the army despite all provocations by the Phuntsok branch of the Khon disciples from all Tibetan traditions Bahadur Khadka, a three star seeking the ouster of the army chief, some of PM’s ministers and lineage in Sakya, Tibet in 1929. He and from countries around the world. general and next in line of succes- sources said, now includes PM’s parliamentarians repeatedly. studied Buddhism with his father, The teaching at Boudha will conclude Trichen Ngawang Thutop Wangchuk on 2nd Nov, 07. News 8-14 Oct., 2007 3

Newsbrief Badal factor Finally, Giri is the CJ Nationalism a big issue in Maoist politics today. After dilly dallying for around a month, GP Koirala in his capacity as the 'head There has been a sudden spurt of convince him that parliament should of the state' appointed Kedar Prasad debate over nationalism, and the declare Nepal a republic now, but Giri as the Chief Justice of Nepal. This need to protect it, in course of debate Badal's assertion that they were more puts at rest the uncertainty over the in the Communist Party of Nepal- interested in proportional representa- absence of leadership in the apex court. Maoist (CPN-M) party now. Party tion changed the whole thing. Justice Giri was officiating as the CJ spokesperson, KB Mahara, solicited Sources said Shekhar and Sitaula ever since Dilip Kumar Poudel retired media's key role in defense of even quoted Indian ambassador as from the post on September 7. nationalism in a brief chat with having endorsed the republican line Giri's elevation comes in the wake of journalists on October 4. categorically; much against the spirit of division among the members of the special committee of parliament on An intense debate in CPN-M has the official reaction from the South party lines. Koirala sort of exercised his 'special powers' to appoint Giri influential members demanding that block which favoured people taking as the CJ. In a similar case, he had earlier appointed Sailaja Acharya as the party maintain a cordial ideologi- major decision through election instead the ambassador to Delhi although the parliamentary committee lacked cal relationship with the northern of the existing parliament doing it. consensus on Sailaja being chosen. neighbour instead of depending too The recent debate on nationalism Koirala had come in for sharp criticism, mainly from the bar, for not much on the 'South'. That line also is in the Maoist party appears as an filling up the top post in the judiciary as it left enough ground to lobby on in favour of building better under- the last moment to derail this process. assertion that 'republican and behalf of those aspiring to be CJ at the cost of seniority. standing with the nationalist forces Some of the partners, mainly the proportional representation electoral within Nepal. The debate has taken a Congress leaders, also see that system' are entirely domestic issues Still mighty Koirala firm shape after PM GP Koirala's Maoist party's influential group which should be settled through recent statement that Nepal's backed by Vaidya-Gajurel and Badal internal debate and understanding. Friday, October 5, might have been a sovereignty was under threat. of late seem to favour proportional Badal's latest stance also comes as a day of defeat for GP Koirala since he Although he did not mention India's representation more than the major departure from Prachanda - failed to keep his promise to hold name, everyone who heard Koirala, demand to abolish monarchy. Baburam line's proximity with that of elections to the constituent assembly. said it was clear which country he A prominent Congress party leader Shekhar and Sitaula. Prachanda and But he also had a reason to feel happy was referring to. involved in the negotiation process Baburam have come in for sharp as he could prove that his words carry The sudden focus on nationalism revealed that Ram Bahadur Thapa criticism within the party for having weight at least on affairs related with from the Maoists comes in the wake alias Badal, went to the extent of telling allegedly moved too close to India. Narayanhiti royal palace. of strident criticism of the Maoists by the meeting in Baluwatar on 4th Apart from a dominating view Army Chief Rukmangad Katawal most of the political parties holding October that the Maoists were within the Maoists now that, “we removed about 800 cavalries on duty the rebels of yesterdays solely guilty interested more on proportional should not be guided too much by from the palace, and brought them under command of the army for derailing the electoral and representation and not so much on the India,” Badal is said to be angry with headquarters. He acted on orders of the prime minister who lost his democratic process. In the assess- republican issue. 'That killed the Sitaula after he turned towards the cool, if not balance, when people booed him during his state visit to the ment of the ruling coalition partners, possible consensus," the Congress South seeking that Maoists be taught Kumari temple on September 30 and hailed King Gyanendra who had Maoists ostensibly put forward the source said, adding that KP Sitaula and a lesson after it became clear that gone there as an ordinary pilgrim. demand for republicanism and the Shekhar Koirala, the eyes and ears of Maoists were not going to let the Seasonal Sujata proportional representation system at the PM, were making every effort to November 22 polls to take place. It seems Kumari, the living goddess showered blessing on G P Koirala if her daughter's belated shift to the pro-republican issue is an indicator of that. A day after Koirala visited Kumari temple, Sujata called on her father to confess that she was wrong in supporting the monarchy earlier. As the elder Koirala was chatting with some Congress leaders, a visibly elated daughter admitted that the king was the source of all problems. She said it loudly that the way the king went to the Kumari temple without informing 'Sanobuba' was an ample proof that king will always be the destabilising factor in Nepal's politics. Sujata's political somersault comes less than a fortnight after she made public speeches that monarchy is needed to save the country from disintegration and that B P Koirala's policy of national reconciliation was relevant even today. Air travel up With peace process on track, there has been 27 per cent growth in the number of foreign tourists visiting Nepal in September. According to the data available from the Immigration Office, at the Tribhuvan International Airport, the number of tourists arriving was up by 6847 compared to the corresponding month last year. This is in conformity with the total increase of 32.3 per cent, in the number of tourists flying in Nepal during the past nine months. According to the official data, a total of 252407 tourists came to Nepal during the period. Despite the travel advisory issued by the U S government, there was a 38.9 per cent increase in the number of tourists visiting Nepal compared to last year. The highest increase, 49.1 per cent, indicated that Nepal remains a favoured destination of Spanish tourists. There was 33. 6 percent increase in the number of tourists from Italy, followed by 32. 1 percent (British), 29 per cent (Japanese), 25.2 percent (Germans) and 18.6 percent (French) tourists. Carlsberg in new bottle Gorkha Brewery Pvt. Ltd has launched Carlsberg Beer in embossed 650ml bottles. The original Carlsberg bottle has been redesigned in an elegant form. With the brand name uniquely embossed down the side, the new bottle is easy to hold. The bottle is transparent making it easy to appreciate the classic quality of Carlsberg. Carlsberg has a strong association with international football with its sponsorships of Liverpool Football club in England, Carlsberg Manang Marshyangdi Club in Nepal and UEFA European Championship. Carlsberg being the official beer of UEFA Euro 2008 championship to be held in 2008 in Austria and Switzerland, the logo of EUFA Euro 2008 appears on the top of the neck label of the new bottle. 4 8-14 Oct., 2007 Editorial

Editor & Publisher : Yubaraj Ghimire Executive Editor : Sushma Amatya News Coordinator : Manoj Dahal Design: Sunil Khadgi, Kishor Raj Panta & Ramkrishna Rana Address : PO Box: 8830, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel : 4443888, Fax : 4421147 (Edt.), 4411912 (Mkt.) Email: [email protected], [email protected] (Mkt.) Printed by: Express Color Press, Buddhanagar, Tel.: 4781810, Distribution: Kasthamandap, Tel.: 2010821 Point to Ponder Tricks and treachery are the practice of fools, that don't have brains enough to be honest. I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be de- pended upon to meet national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts. - Abraham Lincoln Dishonesty The ruling coalition led by Prime Minister GP Koirala, and the Communist Party of Nepal-Maoists, another key actor in the peace process have once again proved how similar they are when it comes to letting people decide their fate and this country's future. The two parties which are so desperate to hold on to power at any Letters cost, with or without accountability, have come together in denying people the chance to elect a constituent assembly. Responsible Where does he want this country This is a shameful act and failure on the part of the PM Koirala. journalism to go? Does he see Nepal Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba paid the price as PM, beyond his days in the chair? The article "Terai problem and It is so amazing that the people albeit illegally, when he got sacked by the king for failing to hold the media"(1st Oct) by Chandra parliament elections on schedule. He was even declared incompe- who worshipped him only little Kishore Jha raised a very more than a year ago are now tent by the king. That was five years ago. But how will a people's fundamental problem that should prime minister, proved incompetent twice in similar ways, respond fearing the worst in him. With his be taken positively. It highlights failure to hold the elections, Koirala to the emerging situation? He has repeatedly failed the people, the lack of understanding on the and denied them the right to elect a constituent assembly that will must take the moral responsibility part of the media personnel on and quit to pave the way for worthy author the future constitution of this country. issues they are writing about. Koirala, of course, should own moral as well as administrative candidates for the post. Media personnel have to It is also a challenge for the accountability for all this failure and quit. Maoists and other possess knowledge of the coalition partners have also acted ingloriously perhaps in varied Congress party leaders, elements of the society they especially the members of the degrees. It was an outright dishonest act on Maoists’ part to insist write about. In order to sensitise on a complete switch to the entirely proportional electoral system parliament, to prove that they will them regarding the people, not let their leader to take any in place of the earlier agreed mixed electoral system, when they media houses should conduct knew that such a fundamental change was not possible with just major decision on behalf of the occasional training and seminars country anymore now that he has about two months left for the scheduled elections. for journalists. A well trained No matter how vigorously Maoists might deny it, they do not enjoy failed to honour his pledge to journalist will be more sensitive hold elections twice. much esteem in people's perception. It will be taken as their running when writing about a particular away from the elections. It is clearly an outcome of the 'deal based' ä Bhavani Thapa aspect of the society. Dilli Bazar, Kathmandu politics that Koirala, with active collaboration of Prachanda pursued It is also about time that media during the past 16 months of peace process, instead of taking other should focus more on news that coalition partners and the people in confidence. sales. From what we come Excellent pieces The deal became no longer possible when Maoists tried to impose across in the media today, it is Newsfront has made its mark every agenda; from complete switch to the proportional representa- sex, scandal and sensation that go to make journalism. I am in the media field in such a short span of its existence. Not tion to declaring Nepal a republican immediately, in an authoritarian not against criticism of the negative aspects of a society, but only has it been giving space to various opinions and reflecting and dictatorial manner, appropriating all rights of the people which that should be done with utmost care, basic knowledge and a various dimensions of the contemporary Nepali society, it has they were waiting to exercise during November polls. Their latest sense of responsibility. also given space to culture and heritage. The pieces on move also threatened to reduce Koirala to a rubber stamp. It is imperative that reporting on Madhesh needs modifica- Kumari in the last issue (35th) were excellent, and provided It was no doubt, a great victory for Nepalis to have Maoists on tion keeping in mind the heterogeneous character and deep insight into the institution of the Kumari. the peace process that made them realise that future history of composition of the society. Positive journalism will make a far ä Mukesh Shrestha this country cannot be written with human blood, but with collective better Madhesh than what we are seeing now. Bhaktapur wisdom and vision based on a policy of understanding and ä Rajib Kumar Deo conciliation, and under a system where government and the Kupondole, Lalitpur elected parliament would be fully responsible to the sovereign Readers, your reactions, criticisms, com- people. Any attempt to undo that will not only be a betrayal of the Untrustworthy Koirala people but a confession to self-defeat. ments, suggestions are most welcome. I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be Newsfront has been successful in breaking news one after Please address it to: the other. Its latest prediction on the front page news that G P depended upon to meet any national crises. The great point is to [email protected] bring them the real facts. Koirala is prone to any compromise in his state of confusion is quite worrying for the entire country. Who is he guided by?

Spiritual Corner Beyond fear and hatred nature of the Guru. and with resolve they reach very sufferings. The ascetics who are the followers Bhagwan Ram is the 12th substantial states. After they of Aghoreshwar do not have any special Aghor is a simple and natural state of in the direct lineage of the reach these states, they become appearance. They do not have any signs of consciousness. There is no place for feelings twelve Aghoreshwars that so polite that their voices have class, caste or religion. They are continuously of fear, hatred, disgust or discrimination in the began with Baba Kinaram nothing but sweetness. engaged in providing for the well-being of eyes of an Aghor. With constant practice when from the 16th century. He Their vocabulary has no place others, not discriminating any race, color or the soul is established in that state, such a renounced his body in for defiling, provocative words, or religion. person becomes an Avadhuta. An November 1992. words that spread enmity. Such To see an Aghor ascetic is like getting a Aghoreshwar is an Avadhut who has gone In a conversation with one words don't even arise. When- glimpse of Shiva himself. In their greatness, through all the various stages of Aghor and of his monks, Baba Bhagwan ever you come across such they accept social relationships with everyone. then has returned to society for the benefit of Ram gave the following description of an people, take them to be blessed by the They are not judgmental. They are for others. The term Aghor goes back to the Aghor or a follower of Aghoreshwar: Kapaleshwar (the great unknown who everyone and anyone just as the sun, the farthest reaches of time. One of the five faces Followers of Aghoreshwar stay very far dwells in the cosmos, the spirit of moon, the earth, fire and wind are not here of Shiva was known as Aghor. There is from doubt. They do not dwell in the body- Aghoreshwar). With unbreakable faith and for any particular religion, class, caste or nothing higher to be known than the real mind. They dwell in the consciousness of self, reverence, they are moved by human nation. Debating Development 8-14 Oct. 2007 5

A patient of depression and an all kinds of compromises to save his insecure politician - especially the one chair. There are enough speculations in power, have one thing in common. that India arranged a formula under Both see enemies everywhere, which King Gyanendra would abdicate sometimes real but mostly imaginary. and go to exile along with his son Prime Minister GP Koirala now shows Paras and Koirala would be the all the qualities of an insecure president of republic Nepal. News- Loser's politician. He has lost all the creden- reports which Himal magazine has tials of a confident leader that he carried however, suggest that the King once was. stands firm that Nepal alone will be his generosity abode under any circumstances. With loss of that confidence and a series of failures to deliver, Koirala has Surely, Koirala has not kept the now been frantically trying to find an Nepali people informed about this Koirala is now prone to making all kinds enemy whom he can always lash out move, but has he taken his coalition at without the perceived enemy being partners into confidence on this? Is of compromises to save his chair. able to speak out in one's defense. the issue of monarchy a subject of Who could be more appropriate for secret deals between Koirala and this than King Gyanendra - isolated, other friendly countries, or should the humiliated and scared ever since he Nepalis solely be deciding on the was forced to abandon his ambition to issue? This also shows the utter rule as an absolute king in April 2006 contempt Koirala has for the people ä Yubaraj Ghimire under the weight of a powerful mass of Nepal. movement? Despite King Gyanendra's Koirala has got his Home Minister, unpopularity at its peak because of K P Sitaula, who is clearly above the his unconstitutional and unreasonable law of parliamentary system of political ambition, his refusal to leave accountability - to furnish all details, the country shows he would rather real or unsubstantiated, about the have Nepalis to independently and role of the palace and pro-king forces conscientiously decide his fate. in fanning out trouble in Kapilvastu Koirala's unauthorised appropriation and the explosions in Kathmandu. of the role of a king, and his harass- The PM who failed to book his home ing Gyanendra to the extent of minister for all the failure in law and denying him his right to religion could order situation and for a series of trigger anti-Koirala sentiment. After carnage will instead be using the all, Nepali society will not approve 'conspiracy theory' of Sitaula as an anyone being denied the right to excuse to sacrifice monarchy in his religion. That does not mean that the last ditch battle to save his own chair. people would want to have an Sitaula has proved his excellence in absolute monarch back onto centre- cooking up reports, and even stage of Nepali politics, but they feel influencing the judicial commission, in cheated and betrayed by the leaders the manner he did with the of Koirala's ilk who become tyrants Rayamajhi Commission. and undemocratic and are guided more by external forces while The PM gave ample proof of his deciding on crucial internal issues. insecure mind on October 1 when he summoned Army Chief, Rukmangad Given Koirala's known bias to the Katawal at his Baluwatar residence. extent of whipping hatred against He was angry and felt insulted over monarchy which has been stripped of the previous night's incident in every right including self-defense; Basantapur Durbar Square. Koirala, perhaps, it is now more appropriate with Speaker Subhash Nembang on to go for a referendum on the his side, was jeered at and booed by republican versus the monarchy the mass for acting as a head of the issue, of course in constitutional or state and for receiving 'Tika' from some other form. This is a vital issue Kumari. He had ignored the public where people cannot be deprived of criticism that secular Nepal's their right to decide and leave it to the government head should not be highly centralised political parties associating with any religion's rituals which are bent upon denying any role any more. to the people in deciding country's future political course. Moreover, an Koirala did not take people's anger acceptable electoral process requires and protest kindly. Instead, he level playing field in all fairness. questioned King Gyanendra's right to visit the Kumari temple to receive Koirala's series of failure to hold 'Prasad' in his individual capacity. In a elections, second time in a year, feat of rage and response that was should not be the ground for his neither just nor humane, Koirala elevation as the president. Nor should verbally ordered the army chief that he be allowed at this stage to take a half the army personnel deployed for drastic decision like announcing king's security be immediately republic Nepal from the parliament withdrawn. He behaved more like a when the special session begins. medieval feudal chief, and not as the PM of a democratic country. He was A defeated leader is prone to make further agitated when army chief more compromises. He should not be Katawal told him in plain language allowed to act like a political winner, that while the army would definitely and decide on issues of far reaching follow each and every provision of the consequences on behalf of the nation interim constitution and the compre- or the people. It is also a lesson for hensive peace agreement, any hasty the Maoists especially, and for others decision on the monarchy, clandes- like UML to understand that what tinely or in violation of the spirit of the Nepalis are looking for is assertion of two documents would not be people's rights and power through acceptable to the army. electoral process, and not a gift of 'republicanism' from a PM who has With November 22 elections put off lost the right, courage and authority indefinitely, Koirala is prone to making to rule. Bhashwor Ojha 6 8-14 Oct, 2007 Opinion

Colonel Yogendra Unknown soldiers Shumsher JB Rana Future generations of Nepal should be presented with their own role models.

Nepal has remained a nation of 1950s. soldiers than any other nation He was never found wanting for around the world ever since it either ideas or guts. His respect for agreed to support the British law and policy of lawful practices Empire’s military might in its fight was astounding although he was against known dictators in Europe blamed often for evading taxes in and elsewhere. The sons of Nepal, the importation of exempted goods mostly from hilly areas together with ä Binod P Bista to hotel industry. By himself he the Ranas, Thapas and other would never allow any action that Kshatriyas (also from other caste might put him against the govern- now-a-days), have not only fought No wonder the ment. with remarkable courage but have UN, finding the also maintained near perfect He was always in favor of dealing discipline under military code of Nepali contingent with government agencies, conduct for generations. as one of the wherever possible than commercial most reliable, establishments, believing that the The number of VCs awarded to government can never act against these brave soldiers during both disciplined and the interest of businesses, and thus the great wars I and II has proven tactful, seems to economic development. However, that the Nepali soldiers belong to a despite his hard work, he lost most distinct breed of people whose be in the lookout of his agencies, hotel and had to valor and sacrifice on duty is for them. spend his remaining days on his unmatched. mortgaged land.

No wonder the United Nations, special privilege to engage in Kaju babushaheb passed away finding the Nepali contingent as one business as the Rana family peacefully in the middle of Septem- Nepali business an important lesson Nepal now must learn to appreciate of the most reliable, disciplined and members were prohibited from this ber, 2007 after a full life of 97 years. learned out of passion, hard work the work of every individual who excels tactful, seems to be in the lookout for profession then. He lived the life of a Nepali soldier and keen sense of understanding of in his/her profession. It would not be them. Nepali peace keeping His journey in business started in all his life, disciplined and forthright. the future. enough to simply copy Indian or contingents have been awarded his late teens with bicycle as his Those who knew him closely during Western idols and try to impress on the several medals and accolades by the vehicle for reaching his customers, his lifetime cannot help but admire Nepal has housed several Nepali populace on some selected UN in their long illustrious service to mostly in the valley. Through sheer his strength and courage that he distinctive individuals over the century. areas such as entertainment business. the nations of the world. determination and hard work showed. Lacking political linkage and support, Future generations of Nepal should be (monopoly also helped) he was able He can readily be accepted as great deeds of these persons have presented with their own role models Colonel Yogendra Shumsher JB to acquire a lot of wealth and one of the pioneers of Nepali been erased out and forgotten. One who have stood firm on their own soil Rana took part in the great Second prestige. business with the outside world. such person who went to heavenly and reached the heights of their World War by being assigned in Considering the state of most journey recently at the age of 70 was profession with sheer determination, Burma, now known as Myanmar, Popularly known as Kaju industrial and business houses Tarak Shumsher Thapa, the ace courage and ingenuity. The time has under the rule of Ranas. For being babushaheb, Col. Rana, became a today, which are sustained by footballer of the time, who also come to remember the unknown close to Rana Prime Minister Mohan name worth mentioning in the Nepali agency business in bad times, Kaju established himself as a successful soldiers who have left an indelible mark Shumsher Rana, he was given a business circle, especially after the babushaheb seems to have given auditor in trying times. for all of us to see. ä

Girija in pursuit of becoming contemporary parties as buffer against the Maoists. Nepal's political hero is now on the path of being labeled as the country's most The key really is the balance of power. The unsuccessful prime minister. Although he Fallacies of political parties want to retain power at any had been largely discredited, the king’s cost and for that reason, they can swing like a takeover undoubtedly provided him with a pendulum on either side of the political hero's halo to champion the cause of spectrum to forge alliances to stay in power. democracy. two men Gyanendra as a commoner went to visit the Unfortunately, as in the past GP Koirala Kumari, and that caused a sensation in the has failed to deliver and his only motive to It is embarrassing for us Nepalis to observe this grand spec- political circle. Girija's objection to that now begs root the king out of power now becomes the question, should the entire Nepali population obvious – the passion to cling to power. It is tacle where our leaders have shed their dignity and pride seek permission from the prime minister to visit indeed tragic to note that Koirala’s ego the Kumari? And does the move to downsize matches the king's and both have enor- the number of armed forces in the palace help mously contributed to the political crisis The Maoists and the political parties have the peace process or did it better the prospect of prevailing in the country today. Neither of maintained that the monarchy is solely elections happening? The real irony is that the them wanted the other to succeed. Both responsible for the deplorable condition of the parties who boast of minimising the king to a want to seal their immortality in Nepali people. However, these accusations are ill political non-entity continue to fear him. This fear history by seen as solving country's key ä Siddhartha Thapa founded and any sociologists or a historian and vulnerability goes to demonstrates how problems, through politics of one up- would conclude that it is the priestly clan who badly the parties have failed to materialise their manship. were responsible for enforcing caste laws and promised dreams into reality. reconfirm he has not changed. orthodox protocols that segregate a larger A prominent Congress leader on the portion of the society, a fact ignored by all In every sense it is embarrassing for us condition of anonymity revealed that GP Monarchy today is the unifying element or political parties so far. Nepalis to observe this grand spectacle Koirala had met the Maoists at the Jain best serves as the punching bag for our where our leaders have shed their dignity and Temple in Naxal, just before the state of politicians and civil society members. Therefore, Therefore, what Nepal really needs is a pride by making absurd political statements emergency was announced; while his if abruptly removed, there would be no thread to social, cultural and an economic revolution. Or and comical observations to delude the colleague Sher Bahadur Deuba was the keep them united. better a new political revolution with a socio- people. Girija's decision to go to republic is not prime minister in 2001. economic and cultural reform package. The based on reasoning or political principles but The real issues that plagues Nepal today is declaration of a republic from a nominated merely on tactical moves to cling to power. Koirala was point blank in conveying to the poverty, social exclusion, corruption and the parliament will hold no relevance to that need. Should the political equation change, so will Maoists that, "ultimately you people would consistent absence of a responsive government. his decision. Therefore, how long are we to have to talk me;" during his secret parley Monarchy or a republic, in that sense is a non- Over the last year, adherence to the suffer from politics of hatred, prejudice and with the Maoists. That only shows what issue. But Gyanendra helped propel this constitution has been ignored, therefore, should vengeance? The continued tussle between mattered to him the most in his power-driven dogmatic propaganda of the Maoists by seizing the Maoists run into confrontation at any time the monarch and the democrats will only politics. Unseating prime ministers and his absolute power in an attempt to sideline the with the six parties, it is almost certain that result in each eliminating the other out of the attempt on the monarchy at any cost only democratic forces in the country. monarchy will be brought back to life by six political equation. ä Interview 8-14 Oct, 2007 7 Highly disappointed

I do not see any alternative to election which I think, must happen at the earliest.

Chief Election Commissioner that case, we just have to reschedule Bhojraj Pokharel is both timings and the election programmes Was it also not a huge waste worried and disappointed that the as per the new date. of resources? energy and effort his team put in Oh yes. A big chunk of resources to conduct elections to the However, if they change the has been wasted. constituent assembly has gone electoral system fully or partially, that down the drain. Yet, he hopes will require amendments in the Roughly, how much was that better sense will prevail constitution and new legislations have wasted? among the political leaders so that to be brought in. In that case, we It is enormous to say the least. I people would get a chance at the need to review our preparations may not be able to tell you exactly in earliest to decide on the future taking into account those new terms of its worth in monetary terms political course of this country provisions. After all, those laws may but it is huge. We owe an explana- through a peaceful and demo- affect voters, constituencies, process tion to the people and we are cratic process. Excerpts of the and will also directly affect the kind of compiling all those details. The kind interview (his first one after the preparations we need to make. of resources, technical assistance polls were called off) he gave to we got from the international Yubaraj Ghimire and Kiran Based on those legislative community, all that was used and Bhandari for newsfront: requirements, we will have to design spent in training; we will bring it to the rules, procedures, guidelines, the notice of the public. What is your reaction to form and format of the election. We the CA elections being put also need to reorient polling staff and As you said you have no off again? returning officers. We need to clear idea about when the This is very unfortunate. This is redesign voters’ education, election elections will take place now, a setback to the peace process as messages, materials and the will the EC wait indefinitely? well. Nepalis were really looking dissemination process. We need to We are bound to limit our activities forward to casting their ballots. know all these to be able to say how and response within the boundary set They were of strong opinion that early we are ready to conduct the out by the constitutional provisions. the elections would bring peace polls. But the main thing we need to We are waiting to hear from the government regarding the new Big disappointment! For the past 11 election date as government is the sole authority to do that. months, we had been working as a team with a focused zeal to accomplish this Since elections has been put off after certain political and electoral national duty on time. We worked very issues were raised, political parties hard. We did not want to fail the Nepali need to address them legally and people and the international community. constitutionally; to pave the way for a smooth and unhindered poll process in future. It is for the parliament now and stability in the country. They know is what kind of election system how fast it can get into the legal and must be feeling very let down. we will adopt and how much of our constitutional issues. I can only hope earlier efforts can be re-applied. at the moment that they address Do you have any idea them wisely. I am still hoping to hear about the new date for the You had already dispatched the new election date from the polls? many polling officers in the government at the earliest. Election is an important sub- constituencies? system of a total or an integrated We had established 240 offices of But what if polls keep getting system. The total system at the the returning officers and they all put off or do not take place at moment is the peace process. have been called back. As the entire all? Naturally, success of the process process has been called off, the I can only pray to God not to let alone will lead to a credible model code of conduct cease to be in that happen. I sincerely hope that the election. So it is necessary that operation now. government and the political leaders the process remains on track. But rise to the occasion and do not fail the election is the only process that What was the EC's first people who want peace process and gives legitimacy to the peace reaction when the government democracy legitimised through process. Therefore, I do not see decision was formally commu- election. I cannot say anything any alternative to election which I nicated to you? beyond this. think, must happen at the earliest. Big disappointment! For the past 11 months, we had been working as a Did you or the election As early as November? team with a focused zeal to accom- commission consider quitting No. Elections in November is off plish this national duty on time. We over postponement of the polls and already ruled out now. We worked very hard. We did not want to the second time in less than a must now take into account the fail the Nepali people and the year? emerging scenario while talking international community. We had You can understand our frustra- about the new date. One of the successfully mobilised the entire tion but we need to make a sincere fundamental issues we need to electoral process and the people. We assessment of the situation. Our watch is how the political parties had nearly completed technical wanting to hold elections was not will respond to the existing preparations. Ballot papers were enough. But at the moment, what we provisions of the interim constitu- getting ready and ballot boxes were can say is elections were not put off tion related with the election in the process of being delivered to because of the failings on the part of Bhaswor Ojha system. They have to decide the booths. the election commission. We would whether they want to continue not have taken a minute to quit if we with it. Was it a wasted effort? were found lacking in preparation in In a way, yes. But we also gained will and action. As a responsible If the parties decide they want lots of experiences which I am sure institution, we need to respond to a to continue with the mixed system will be useful when we actually situation with utmost seriousness without any change, we can conduct the polls. But now we need and with a sense of responsibility, conduct the elections any time to regenerate ourselves for future even at the cost of our self-pride with the present preparation. In delivery. some times. ä 8 8-14 Oct, 2007 Art Flowers ä Sanchita Sinha Roy and leaves Flowers and Leaves are eight panelled canvas boards 10"x12" done with acrylics and texture white. Many paintings have been done in these series. I must say that this series have sold out and there is a demand for more of a similar kind of art work. Presently I am working on four entirely different flowers and leaves. The inspiration for these pieces initially came from the years I had spent in the beautiful islands of The Republic of Seychelles. They were highlighted due to the fact that there was very little flora as compared to an abundance of foliage which comes in various hues of the spectrum, much to my delight.

The foliage in Seychelles is remarkable and spectacular to behold. One cannot but help notice the element of surprise when one becomes aware of the fact, for the colourful foliage more than makes up for the lack of flowers.

(Sanchita, 44, painter and writer currently works from her studio at Gurgaon, Haryana, India. She can be reached at: cell: 91-9818803916, [email protected]) From the region 8-14 Oct, 2007 9 Musharraf steals the show Moving toward peace in Korea but victory hangs on court ä Dorothy Ogle

President Gen Pervez Musharraf on the Balochistan Assembly. After six years of a failed U.S./North Korea policy that put us on Saturday won a one-sided election for Former Supreme Court judge a slippery slope toward nuclear proliferation, news that North another five-year term from a truncated Wajihuddin Ahmed, who stood as only a Korea pledged to detail its nuclear programs and disable all parliamentary electoral college amid symbolic rival, as did PPP chairman activities at its main reactor complex by year's end, then signed boycotts and protests while the fate of the Makhdoom Amin Fahim, to be able to a wide-ranging reconciliation pact with South Korea promising 55 per cent votes cast for him by his own pose legal challenges to Gen Musharraf’s to work for peace on the divided peninsula has brought a ray of loyalists, still lay in the hands of the candidature before the Election Commis- hope to Korea and the whole world. Supreme Court. sion and then to the Supreme Court, got The name calling ("axis of evil") and "shock and awe" bombings As only a few votes were cast against a total of five votes -- two from the two in Iraq convinced North Korea that they could not give up their him in what were left as opposition-less houses of parliament and, according to nuclear program without assurances of their security and two houses of parliament and four the calculation formula, one each from consideration of their economic needs. President Bush's 2001 provincial assemblies and for a symbolic the Punjab (against three members), refusal to support South Korea's policy of constructive engagement rival, there was partial strike in some cities Sindh (against two members) and the with the north, and his stubborn refusal to talk directly to the North and towns while lawyers held protests NWFP (against two members). Koreans, provoked North Korea into expelling the international against Gen Musharraf’s disputed No vote was cast for Mr Fahim and a inspectors, produce more nuclear material, and to prove to the candidacy. covering PPP candidate, Mrs Faryal world that they could test a missile and a nuclear bomb. He got 384 votes, or 55 per cent, of the Talpur, after the party said it was Chief Election Commissioner Qazi After six years of failure, President Bush finally was convinced 702-vote, but 1,170-member electoral “abstaining” from the process -- rather Mohammad Farooq announced what is that sanctions could not work, and bombing North Korea was college, which was hugely depleted by than resigning like other parties grouped called as unofficial count of vote held at the unthinkable. He allowed his faithful negotiator Christopher Hill to resignations by most opposition parties in the All Parties Democratic Movement parliament house in Islamabad from 10am earlier this week and a last-minute (APDM) alliance — in what was actually a to 3pm, to cheers and “President Musharraf walkout by the People’s Party Parliamen- boycott on the ground the president was Zindabad” slogans from about 40 ruling tarians (PPP), the largest opposition standing while continuing as army chief. coalition members who were still present party, despite a controversial National It was the first time in 60 years of there with Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and Reconciliation Ordinance he issued on Pakistan’s life that an army chief was Pakistan Muslim League President Friday to meet some of its demands for a elected president. The country’s first Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, although a smooth transition to full democracy. military ruler Mohammad Ayub Khan Supreme Court bench has forbidden a Of them, 252 votes came from 257 became an un-retiring field marshal but formal notification of the winner until it finally polled in a joint meeting of the 342-seat handed over to General Mohammad Musa rules over petitions challenging General National Assembly and the 100-seat as army commander-in-chief before his Musharraf’s candidacy. Senate in Islamabad, after three ballot 1964 election from a 40,000-strong The 10-member bench had refused papers were cancelled, and the rest from electoral college of Basic Democrats while pleas from the lawyers of Mr Fahim and the provincial assemblies calculated on a the second, General Mohammad Zia-ul- Mr Wajihuddin on Friday to stay the proportional representation formula that Haq, got himself elected through a election before adjourning the hearing of have serious direct talks with the North Koreans, resulting in this gives each of them, despite their varying controversial referendum as did General their petitions until Oct 17. new agreement. strengths, votes equal to the lowest 65 of Musharraf for his present term in 2002. (Dawn) It is important for us to think about the second part of last week's news — the summit between North Korean Leader and South Korean President Rho Moo Hyun. For Koreans, this promises more hope for bringing peace to their divided country. Korea was one country for thousands of years until it was divided 62 years ago by the United States and the USSR in a hasty power-sharing decision at the end of World War II. Koreans had nothing to do with the division of their country, and it has brought them separation of 10 million family members, war, dictatorships, and sacrifice for military build-up that has made their small country one of the most dangerous places in the whole world. After enduring more than a quarter of a century of military dictatorship, South Koreans in 1987 succeeded in restoring democratic government by peaceful revolution. For several decades the South Korean people and their leaders have realized that peace and prosperity can only come to Korea if the Korean War is ended and the resources of both parts of Korea can be used for the people. They elected two presidents who ran on the platform of bringing peace and reconciliation to Korea by constructive engagement with North Korea. Former South Korean President Kim Dae Jung won the Nobel Peace Prize for his historic 2000 summit visit to the north where the two Kims agreed on ways to cooperate. President Clinton cooperated with the constructive engagement policy, and as a sign of good will he sent Secretary of State Albright to North Korea. He also invited a high-ranking North Korean military general to the White House. During the Clinton administration, North Korea's nuclear program was under control of international inspectors. In spite of the last six dark years of U.S./North Korea nuclear stand-off, the two Koreas have cooperated in the development Burma dragnet still spread of an industrial park, tourism, a railroad line across the border and marching together in Olympic ceremonies. More than a week after the former capital, said The atrocities committed last month. revolt," named for the This second summit had to be postponed because of the crushing a peaceful, monk- New Light of Myanmar, a The International Committee of saffron robes worn by nuclear issues, but it was a priority for South Korean President led rebellion, the Burmese government mouthpiece. Of the Red Cross (ICRC) has Buddhist monks, was Rho Moo Hyun, who is coming to the end of his term. The first junta continues to arrest the 78 detainees, six were later been blocked for months from crushed on September Korean president to travel to Pyongyang by car, he got out and and interrogate alleged released. Of the estimated making prison visits in the 26-27 by Burmese anti-riot walked across the Military Demarcation Line. South Korea set participants in the anti- 2,700 people, including 533 country. The military claims that police and soldiers. up a monument at the border with a stone with the words," The regime revolt, state media monks, authorities have only 10 people died in the The crackdown has Road to Peace and Prosperity," handwritten by President Rho acknowledged Sunday. arrested over the last 10 days crackdown, but Burmese outraged world opinion to show his commitment to the summit. On Saturday, authorities about 1,600 have already been activists claim the total death and strengthened After receiving rapturous cheers from hundreds of thousands rounded up another 78 released, including some 400 toll was closer to 200, citing international pressure on of North Koreans, President Rho received a more reserved "abettors" to the protests, monks, state media claims. witness accounts of mass the regime to initiate a welcome from North Korean President Kim Jong Il. Rho which rocked Rangoon The numbers cannot be cremations following the dialogue with opposition expressed his concern for damage from the recent floods, and from September 18-25, verified because the military mayhem and a steady flow of leader Aung San Suu Kyi, Kim Jong Il expressed his appreciation for the symbolism of peaking with 100,000 rulers have not allowed an corpses from Rangoon's the world's only jailed Rho's walking across the Military Demarcation Line. At the top monks and laymen independent agency to conduct notorious Insein prison. Nobel peace laureate. of Rho's agenda is a Korean Peninsula peace arrangement followers in the streets of an investigation into the Burma's so-called "saffron (Bangkok Post) formally ending the 1950-53 Korean War. (Daily Camera) 10 8-14 Oct., 2007 Perspective Child friendly authority

ä Elsbeth Wetzel If parents misuse their power over their children, when they grow up they retain a distorted view of authority, resulting in a lack of self-confidence.

If you ask what authority really is, you are a few ways: Parents should use will find yourself confronted with a their authority without exercising power surrealistic aspect that is unclear, over the child. They should listen to the confusing and contradictory. The child, taking his/her ideas seriously and history of literature for example, then the child will listen to them. Parents differentiates between personal should not set goals that are impossible authority and governmental authority. for the child to reach; Parents should No matter if we live east or west, we admit their own mistakes and should are confronted at some point in our express their wishes in a normal tone of lives with one or both of these forms voice. Parents should stand by what of authority. There is however a world they say and should correct their of difference in the implementation of children sparingly. these forms. My interest lays with the Children should have a voice in significance of authority in education family matters, as much as possible. and raising children. I have collected There are however, decisions that a few ideas on this subject, gathered only parents can make. The role we from my experience. play as parents or teachers or indeed Parents generally have more anybody who deals with children, is knowledge than their children. The very important. Children look to us for older one gets, the more knowledge guidance, and can tell if our authority one acquires. However, older people, is rooted in self-confidence or not. although they have more knowledge The goal of authority is always the do not necessarily have more same – to prepare the child to find his wisdom. or her own way in the world. The When a child is born, its first mature individual is able to physically experience is the positive stimulation leave his or her mother and father, of warmth and food. As the child but carries them forever inside grows and develops, its cognisant themselves. capabilities grow as well. It learns personality of the child lost when the resulting in a lack of self-confidence. should not be dictatorial. Authoritar- There are cultural differences how to interact with others. During parents place school education as a Responsible parents who them- ian education creates anxiety and a everywhere but I think we all want to this time of development, the child as priority over social integration and selves have self-confidence are able lack of self-confidence in a child. do our best for our children. I wish an individual is ignorant, so it needs to cultural appreciation. to explain the difference between right Children feel instinctively if parents everyone who deals with children be educated - not simply taught ABC Authority is based on competence and wrong in a positive way. Without are abusing their authority, or are strength, understanding and love. and 123 but also social skills and and power over the subject. If this guidance, the child will lose its simply acting in the child’s best Raising them is one of the most cultural appreciation. For all that the parents misuse their power over the orientation in society, and will have interest. important works of our life. child needs guidance. child, when the child grows up it difficulty functioning in this complicated How can we deal with our children, (Elsbeth is a child psychologist In many cases I have seen the retains a distorted view of authority, world. On the other hand, authority without abusing our authority? Here based in Zurich, Switzerland) Marshland Flowers A lot of spiritual principles are based on circular logic rather than simple linear logic alone.

ä Acharya Mahayogi Sridhar Rana Rinpoche

Today physics is undergoing a basic change, as modernism would like to think but depends Ornstein: The Metaphoric Mind/ The Nature of the experiment was done again with explana- the most characteristic trait of which is a return a lot on the observing mind. Now this opens Human Consciousness) These two modes tion of the question. But the result was still the to its original self limitation. This is the up a whole new weltanschauung. That is, were named, the metaphoric mind and the same. beginning of post modernism which began there are many ways to understand/experi- analytic mind. The left brain is linked with the After a lot of thinking the professors who because of the cognitive revolution that took ence/ interpret/give meaning to the world and right side of the body and with logic, analytical conducted the experiment realised what the place in the mid 20th century. When research that no one particular view/meaning/ interpre- thinking, science, mathematics, linear thinking. children had easily realised that it was equally was done on cognition, new facts came into tation is more true/factual/real than any other. Linear thinking means thinking in a straight true that seeds ate birds. When the birds die, light which implied that the empirical positivism And this is the essence of the post modern line like 2 + 2 = 4 etc. But linear thinking is they do fall on the ground and became is true but not the whole truth says Ken Wilber. thinking. A new logic called the modal logic neither the only mode of giving meaning to the compost for the seeds to eat. That birds eat What began to be discovered was that, the came into existence. world nor is it the most accurate/correct/true seed is linear thinking which is correct but it is so called objective observation of the world out Jerome Bruner says in his book, Actual Mind mode. The right half of the brain is linked with equally true that seeds eat bird – but that logic there was not free from the observer (mind) Possible Worlds,….. In the new, more the entire left half of the body and is also linked is not linear logic but circular logic. Circular and in fact we saw what the observer mind powerful modal logic, we ask of a proposition with what is called metaphoric thinking. logic is also equally valid and true. A lot of posited out there. The art psychologist Jerome not whether it is true or false, but in what kind Metaphoric thinking is linked with music, spiritual principles are based on circular logic Bruner and Leo Postman conducted an of possible world it would be true. Jerome poetics, art, love, compassion, empathy, rather than simple linear logic alone. Now let amusing demonstration experiment of this further says….. Both science and the sympathy etc. It could also be called the us go back to Ken Wilber. point. A series of cards were tachistoscopically humanities have come to be appreciated as intuitive mode. And spiritual experiences are The philosophic content of a science is only presented to observers – giving observers only artful figments of men's minds, as creation based on this mode. Insight, which is the most preserved if science is conscious of its limits. milliseconds of exposure to the display of the produced by different uses of mind. used English translation for Vipassyana, does Great discoveries of the properties of individual cards and increasing exposure to the display The world of Milton's "Paradise Lost" (or not depend on analytical linear thinking but phenomena are possible only if the nature of of the cards and increasing exposure Bhanubhakta's Alkapuri) and the world of rather on metaphoric thinking. the phenomena is not generalised a priori. successively. The display consisted of both Newton's Principia exist not only in the minds An experiment was conducted in New York Only by leaving open the question of the normal playing cards and ones in which colour of men; each has an existence in an 'objective for kindergarten children when they were ultimate essence of a body, of matter, of and suit were reversed – a red six of club for world' of culture – what the science philoso- asked to tick-mark the correct answer to the energy, etc., can physics reach an understand- example. It was found that observers pher Karl Popper calls the world three. question: Birds eat seeds and seeds eat birds. ing of the individual properties of the phenom- somehow corrected the wrong coloured Robert Ornstein and many others brought It was amazingly found that the vast majority of ena that we designate by these concepts, an playing cards and saw what the mind expected out the fact the human brain was divided into the children tick marked seeds eat birds. The understanding which alone may lead us to real rather than what was out there. two halves and each half more or less dealt experimenter thought that perhaps the philosophical insight. (To be continued.) Thus the world out there is not as objective with two different modes of knowing. (Robert children did not understand the question, so (Sridhar Rinpoche is a Vajrayana Master) Society 8-14 Oct, 2007 11 Chaos in Treasures of Changu Burma The main image is a 5th century beheaded Vishnu that is believed to sweat ä Yuyutsu RD Sharma miraculously from time to time On the road to Mandalay, where Buddhist monks march and pray Changu Narayan stands on a hillock at guard the temple. An interesting 11th With their begging bowls turned upside down, an altitude of 1,541 metres, four km century image of Narsingha (man-lion) Their fear of reprisal flung to the ground, a brutal regime north of Bhaktapur. This World Heritage tearing down demon Hiranyakasipu is an strains to hold sway. Site houses, among other wonders, a added attraction. Narsingha is the fourth Yet in the grim face of tyranny, it is the Sangha, and the beheaded statue of Vishnu in the main of Vishnu’s ten incarnations. A richly people, who must seize the day. sanctuary. The temple is replete with carved Vishnu-vikranta or Tri-vikram is ä Pramesh Pradhan On the streets of Rangoon, even yesteryear was not too cultural and archeological significance. an 8th century image. The six armed soon Glorious woodcarving, stone carving and dwarf is shown transformed into a giant, For those murderous generals to be thoroughly swept away. metalwork have enriched this Vishnu capable of crossing the universe in three - Eddie Woods, "Mandalay" shrine and made it a veritable museum. gigantic strides. Bamana (dwarf) is the The inscription on the pillar by King fifth incarnation of Vishnu. Demon king The chaos in South Asia holds the world’s attention. The Manadeva in 454 AD, is the oldest Bali is shown outwitted by Vishnu Burmese stance seems to speak for the region. Everyday we proven evidence in the valley. The name disguised as a dwarf. receive angry emails from the friends abroad saying: Burma Changu may have been derived from Vishworupa, the 8th century image, is is burning and monks are marching to save the truth and Newari words: either from Chan and Gu perhaps the most meaningful found democracy. What are you doing? Here is how the American (lapsi forest) or Cha Gu (beheaded) anywhere in Nepal. It shows Krishna in poet Eddie Woods responds from Amsterdam in an e-mail: relating to the beheaded Vishnu image. Mahabharat elucidating Gita to Arjun. "We're concerned about Burma, right? But no one can do King Amsuvarma contributed greatly to Three levels represent three Hindu anything except talk and make useless threats. The UN, the the temple in 7th century. The temple has worlds – Akash (sky), Patal (nether EU, the USA, UK etc sanction travel restrictions but the experienced destructions by earthquakes world) and Sworga (heaven). Multi- generals don't care. They never did, they're not going to and fires many times in its history. dimensionally meaningful images of now. The nation is in pain and the people are dying." Monarchs of different dynasties made Hindu mythology relate snake with water, It’s the average individual that seems to be more fearsome contributions to the temple. Although the women with earth, four elephants with than crafty political parties’ networks. It’s the people’s present form of temple dates to early 18th four cardinal directions and ten heads anguish that seems to shake the citadels of tyranny in the century, rebuilt by King Bhaskar Malla of with ten religious directions. region. The simplicity of the common people remains the Kathmandu after a fire, there are many HERITAGE SITES Images of Garudasana Narayan, weapon that can challenge atrocious regimes. People all important sculptures dating back to the wonderfully carved doors, windows, four over the world seem to relish such civil uprising. Probably the early Lichhavi period. emblems in four corners of the temple, resolve of the people who are not politically opinioned seem An example of classically proportionate statues of king Bhupatendra Malla and to hold the key to the continent’s peace. pagoda temple, the two storied Changu queen Bhubanalaxmi are seen kneeling Is this the fate Nepal has to face in the coming months? Narayan is dedicated to Vishnu, the for worship in a gilded cage in front of the Nepal possibly has passed through the phase that Burma preserver and one of the three supreme temple. For Buddhists, Changu Narayan seems to be facing. Is Nepal the future of Burma? Is this gods in Hindu trinity. The main image is the is Haribahana Lokeswar - a Bodhisattva, what happens when you overthrow powerful autocratic 5th century beheaded Vishnu. It is believed Kileswar Shiva - Samantabhadra rulers? But is that enough? to sweat miraculously from time to time, Lokeswar and Garuda - Takshaka, the Would Nepal have another uprising? A civil uprising in indicating that Vishnu is still ferociously king of serpent. Nepal this time? Who would be the monks in Nepal? The engaged in battle against Naga or snake Changu Narayan is one of the places average innocent civilians who would march to get rid of spirits. Nitya pujas (ritual worshipping) are for chronicle observation of cultural political opportunism of the political parties? Would there held regularly in the temple. development of Kathmandu valley since ever be true democracy in these fragile nations where The Torana above the main door past 2000 years. Changu Narayan has a Rousseau has just taken birth? And how could we forget depicts Vishnu in his Sridhara mudra spectacular vantage point to watch Gandhi? Eddie Wood’s has similar strategy for Burma when (earth touching posture), a stereotypical Manohara river moving through the green he asks civilians to know the facts: Nepali appearance for Vishnu holding the fields, to view the exploding city below and "We know China could do something. But it won't. They do four emblems – Shankha (conch), Chakra to enjoy the mountains in the north. too much business with the corrupt Burmese regime. Nearly (eternal wheel), Gada (mace) and Padma Despite the temple’s beauty and two billion dollars' worth annually. More than 400 companies. (lotus) in his four hands. Older shrines Changu Narayan significance, it attracts relatively few And Burma's biggest arms supplier (along with India & dating back to 2nd or 3rd century of visitors. Comparative difficulty in is one of the places Russia)." Chhinna Masta (beheaded Kali), Laxmi accessibility and the lone road connection I see ordinary people in tea stalls and in public places (Vishnu’s consort and the goddess of for chronicle are perhaps the reasons. Improved grimly looking at the newspapers. I wait to watch their wealth), Shiva and Sapta matrikas (seven transportation and accommodation observation of response but after a brief reading, I see them drop the holy mothers) are seen on the southwest facilities would ensure more visitors and paper in grim silence and move on. corner near the entrance. A 6th century cultural develop- tourists to this visit-worthy site that offers Flames of freedom, please prevail! As Burma valiantly image of Garuda, Vishnu’s transport, is ment of Kathmandu hiking, a multi-rewarding activity in terms seeks to sail seen kneeling. It is believed Manadeva of culture and faith, natural sightseeing valley since past Into a new and fragrant dawn. Burma oh Burma, himself is portrayed in the form of Garuda. and of course, physical exercise. May the spirit of Buddha guide your future forever more. Stone lions, like almost all shrines in Nepal, 2000 years. ([email protected]) – E. Woods. ([email protected]) 12 8-14 Oct, 2007 Makers Prashant rocks

Prashant, the singer from Darjeeling who was crowned the Indian Idol, performing in a concert in Pokhara.

Ankita, another finalist, Deepali, a finalist in Indian rocking with Prashant. Idol- 3, accompanying Prashant.

Britney's BLACKOUT With very little in her life going her way, Spears may have finally decided to attempt to

Britney Spears has finally shed some drove the two of them back to light on the title of her new album. Britney's new Malibu pad. Jive Records announced Friday The mother-daughter duo had a that the embattled pop princess had public falling-out in June, when dubbed her forthcoming oeuvre Britney was photographed handing Blackout. The album is due for Lynne a document that reportedly release Nov. 13. warned her to stay away from her In addition to the chart-topping grandsons if she had been taking any single "Gimme More," Blackout will medication that could impair her feature the songs "Heaven on Earth," judgment. "Radar," "Piece of Me" and "Break Despite the bad blood between the the Ice," per Billboard. two, Lynne has never given up hope The video for "Gimme More" hit of reconciliation. iTunes Friday and was due to Ambushed by photographers last premiere on MTV's TRL Monday. In week while driving around her the video (which was briefly available hometown of Kentwood, she offered on YouTube before being yanked), the statement, "I just want to say, I Spears stars as dual versions of love my daughter very much." ä herself—a blond-haired good girl curiously watching a brunette bad girl perform a pole-dancing routine. Despite her success on the singles charts, the past week has been a tough one for Spears. On Monday, a judge stripped her of custody of her sons, one-year-old Jayden James and two-year-old Sean Preston, turning them over to Kevin Federline full-time. Though Spears is allowed to visit the boys every other day, her sessions will be observed by a monitor, who has the authority to "terminate visitation immediately if any conduct or action by [Spears] endangers the minor children," according to the judge's order. The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for Oct. 26. With very little in her life going her way, Spears may have finally decided to attempt to rebuild her relationship with her estranged family. According to People, the pop star's mother and sister, Lynne and Jamie Lynn Spears, flew from Louisiana to Los Angeles on Friday evening. "Brit really needed her mom," a source told the magazine. "So, Lynne flew out, and they met." Perhaps in an attempt to evade the hordes of paparazzi, Lynne reportedly dropped by her daughter's Beverly Hills home at about 3 a.m., then