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Kathmandu l 21-27 Jan, 2008 l # 50 l Price Rs. 25 India’s duality? BJP questions India’s Nepal policy ä nf correspondent security. It is also a threat to our democracy.” “Why then has the United Progressive India’s Nepal policy is more guided by the Alliance (UPA) government remained a silent appeasement of Maoists at the cost of pro- onlooker with communists in India playing the democracy forces ignoring its implications on role of a colluder, when constitutional monarchy India’s security, according to Bharatiya Janata was disbanded recently under the pressure of Party leader and its Prime Ministerial candidate Maoists? The monarchy in Nepal was a symbol for the next general election, LK Advani. of its unique national identity and a source of its Advani’s categorical disapproval of the identity,” he continued. government of India’s Nepal policy, comes in the This is first time that a major political party in background of interim parliament adopting the India questions its own government’s policy that resolution declaring Nepal a Republic state, with has virtually abandoned the twin pillar theory, the directive to the future constituent assembly after it mediated a deal between Nepal’s pro- to implement it. Advani said BJP was clearly in democracy parties and the Maoists in November favour of preservation of Nepal as a Hindu 2005. This also literally challenges the Indian Kingdom with constitutional monarchy. government to clarify, if its approach on Nepali He said the genuine aspirations of the people Maoists and the Indian Maoists are different. of Nepal like its Hindu identity and constitutional Singh had recently stated in the context of monarchy were suppressed by the rise of Naxalite problem that ‘the virus of terrorism’ Maoists. “Maoism and democracy are a needed to be eliminated for consolidation of contradiction in terms. The two cannot go democracy and developmental activities. together. It is unfortunate that they have gained “Why did the Indian communists applaud ascendancy in the polity of Nepal,” Advani said when the identity of Nepal as a Hindu kingdom recently in a paper ‘Democracy and Conflict was erased even before the constituent Resolution in Asia’ which he read out during a assembly had discussed it? Would they demand summit organised by Dainik Jagaran, a popular that Pakistan or Bangladesh cease to be Islamic Hindi daily, last week. republics?” he asked. “The examples of Israel- Describing what has been happening in Palestine, Afghanistan and Nepal raise two India’s north as ‘worrisome developments in important questions: should India and other Nepal’, Advani said what has been happening in countries in Asia get entrapped in the western Nepal have grave implications not only for sponsored normative discourse on Asia’s Nepal, but also for India given the close nexus political evolution, or should we imbibe from our

Bhaswor Ojha between Maoists on both sides of the border. traditional values and norms? The former path People from different indigenous groups staging a sit-in programme in front of BICC in Kathmandu “The Prime Minister (Man Mohan Singh) is right is likely to ensure that we become the playthings on Thursday, urging the government to add 48 more nationalities on the current list which includes in characterising communist extremism or of external powers seeking to shoot guns off our 59 indigenous groups. Naxalism as the biggest threat to India’s internal shoulders,” said Advani. ä Inside Maoists fear assassination

page 2 One million each to MPs for fair election? page 5 Nepal is a delicate flower, about to die: Interview with Prof. Riccardi page 6&7 2 21-27 Jan, 2008 News Coup galore Advising self-reliance Give up your begging bowl: Nancy Powell Maoists fear political assassination United States of America, Nepal’s other peace accords have yet to be ä nf correspondent foremost development partner and implemented. True and lasting peace donor, has given a piece of advice will require more than an election. It It was only last year which others have refrained from will require a national commitment to that Maoist Chief giving so far. The prescription suggests transform this country’s government Prachanda predicted a that Nepal should not only reduce but and its institutions into bodies that series of political must end its dependency on foreign reflect and serve the needs and assassinations that the assistance. And the key to it is striving aspirations of all Nepalis, regardless palace and the Ameri- for higher economic growth. of gender, ethnicity, caste, religion, or cans would be engineer- The suggestion was contained in a economic status.” ing in Nepal. But he speech that US Ambassador Nancy Nancy added that as political maintained silence Powell gave in a programme parties set out for election campaign, regarding the issue after organised by the Chamber of their discussions should also focus on the then American Commerce, Pokhara recently. “Without Nepal’s economic challenges and the Ambassador, James economic growth, Nepal will continue way to restore robust economic Moriarty, publicly to be dependent on the generosity of decade, Nepal can end its depen- growth that is inclusive and equitable. challenged him to donor countries to meet its expendi- dency on foreign assistance. And the “Peace will always be at risk as long provide any evidence to tures.” She however made it clear that way to do this, we don’t have to look as Nepal lacks a robust rate of substantiate his what she was stating was not an beyond the beautiful, snow-capped economic growth.” She said the allegations. indicator of the likely curtailment in the mountains I saw on my flight to experience of the last 40 years But with Moriarty gone existing level of assistance by the US. Pokhara.” shows that the most successful and fresh election “Over the past half a century, ever Touching upon the prevailing nations in terms of economic schedule announced, since the US first began its assistance political situation, Nancy said, the US development have been the ones in Pix by newsfront Prachanda is back with program to Nepal, our principal aid supports the upcoming polls and is which the private sector has been the public reiteration of the fear. On he said. agency, the US Agency for Interna- committed to doing its part to help it engine of growth. January 18, he told media Prachanda’s revelation of his tional Development, has granted become a reality. “From our The main challenge is to find ways representatives in Kathmandu ‘threat perception’ followed two nearly $1 billion to this country. In perspective, the election is a key step to develop Nepal’s immense hydro- that Nepal could witness political days after he chose to heap 2007 alone, our total assistance in the peace process, but the real power potential in an environmentally upheavals, from political abuses on Chief of Army Staff program was in excess of $70 million. work will begin after the election is and socially acceptable ways, which assassinations to army coup, in (COAS) Gen Katawal at a public We are committed to continuing our over.” She also expressed her will provide affordable energy to the the coming three months He rally jointly organised by the ruling assistance going forward,” she said. frustration saying, “Many of the population and provide additional however, chose not to say who seven party alliance in Tundikhel. “However, it is my hope and my commitments made in the Compre- revenue through large scale export, would be engineering such Prachanda was critical and strong conviction that in the coming hensive Peace Agreement and the said she. activities. abusive of Katawal for his public The way Prachanda revealed stance opposing integration of the the conspiracy theory based on Maoist combatants in the Nepal information from his party army. “Who is Katawal to oppose channels, made it very clear that the move?” he said. His subse- the assassination and the quent diatribes were full of Integration row possible coup would be personal remarks that even the The claim, by Maoist Chief Prachanda and endorsed interview to the media endorsing what Gen Katawal had interlinked. He said that events seven party leaders did not feel by Home Minister KP Sitaula, that Maoist combatants to say on the issue, seemed to have backtracked when similar to the assassination of comfortable about. would soon be integrated in the Nepal Army, has now Maoist ministers cornered him regarding the issue. Benazir Bhutto taking place here Prachanda however relented a snowballed into a major controversy involving political Minister Deb Gurung quoted Koirala having told them would not be far fetched. “Some bit when he announced that his parties across the party lines. that he was misquoted by the media. But Congress groups might make attempts to party would return all the land The first salvo against it was fired by Chief of the leader, Govinda Raj Joshi says that the integration of murder senior leaders, both from and property seized by the party army staff, Gen Rookmangad Katawal who said, the Maoist combatants in the army is not something that Madhesh and the Maoist groups during the insurgency to the inclusion of the cadres who were politically motivated Gen Katawal or even the PM or Prachanda can do to create an atmosphere for a rightful owners, something he is and indoctrinated was not acceptable to the army. independently or on their own. coup.” obliged to do under the Compre- Katawal’s assertion triggered a furious diatribe against Speaking to party workers in Sunderijal on January 19, Prachanda further said that the hensive peace agreement (CPA) him by Prachanda, but there is more pronounced Joshi said the issue has to be settled after building a broader future Nepal could see a mix of and the recently signed 23-point opinion that goes against the Maoist chief. understanding at the national issue, but that should not bring Bangladesh and Pakistan. “After agreement as a pre-condition to In the meantime, senior army officials are likely to meet army under the influence of any political groups. some leaders are removed from election. He also said that his Prime Minister GP Koirala, asking him to restrain his Maoist leader, Ram Bahadur Thapa alias Badal, has the scene as in Pakistan, the party would actively cooperate in alliance partners from making any ‘derogatory and however said that the integration issue is not something Nepal Army might step up its rehabilitating those who were inflammatory’ remarks against the Nepal Army or its chief. that needs to be settled now. “It is something that will be activities to have a ‘civilian displaced during the insurgency. “Nepal Army should not be politicised,” said CPN- taken up after the election,” Badal said, during his brief government’ in place in the name His party cadres have resisted UML General Secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal. His chat with media representatives in Mahendra Nagar, in of protecting democracy, almost the moves in the past to return Deputy Khadga Oli has endorsed Nepal on the an apparent attempt to let the issue rest for the in a replica move of Bangladesh,” the confiscated property. integration issue. And PM GP Koirala, who gave moment. Fake currency Were you or were you not in the counterfeit currency business?

ä nf correspondent Government refutes media reports that Nepali Koirala led a team of Nepali Congress leaders Koirala’s retraction of his earlier statement, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala was involved who hijacked a Nepal Airlines flight that the hijacking took place after RN Kao, gave As Prime Minister GP Koirala gets embroiled in manufacturing counterfeit Indian currency from Biratnagar to Kathmandu in June 1973 an assurance that nothing would be done in a major controversy, borne out of his heroic notes when he was in political exile in India in the and captured four million rupees meant for the against him, followed after an official of the disclosure that might even cost him his chair, he early 1970s.” Rashtra Bank. But after the TV interview, the bit Indian embassy in Kathmandu reportedly has intensified a campaign of blaming the media The front page story titled “Three decades about the RAW involvement was requested him to do so. for what he spoke, mainly revealing his involve- later, Koirala reveals: I manufactured fake Indian withdrawn from the programme though this Giving graphic descriptions of the currency ment in counterfeiting Indian currency note while currency,” that appeared in Indian Express, on claim was made by Koirala himself, the Express counterfeit business, Koirala had claimed that he was in political exile in the 70s. The desperate January 17, said that the startling disclosure has report said. he hired the experts in Bihar’s Forbesganj, and denial has come since counterfeiting currency been made by Koirala himself in an interview to But the denial issued by the office of PM once he was satisfied with their skills, he took notes constitutes an all time act of terrorism that Nepal based Kantipur TV channel. It further said Koirala and his council of the ministers on them to Patna where they set-up the fake no country will be able to condone. that Koirala, in another interview, claimed that January 19 said that they are, “deeply saddened currency manufacturing unit at the garage of Cleverly, Koirala instructed the council of RN Kao, the then chief of India’s external by such false news” and they “refute” the news. BP Koirala’s long time friend, DP Singh, who ministers to deny something that he said in an intelligence agency RAW, had given him the The PMO also said that a copy of the statement was also a member of the Indian parliament’s interview to Kantipur Television. An official green signal to hijack a Nepal Airlines plane with denying what he said publicly is being sent to the upper house, Rajya Sabha, from the Congress statement of the government said, “Nepal the promise that nothing would be done to him. editor of Indian Express. party. ä News 21-27 Jan, 2008 3

Newsbrief

Police said the preliminary investigation suggested that the and the local representatives of the Federation of Nepalis Mahato quits House explosion was caused because the bus caught fire. “We are still Journalists (FNJ) met him to lodge a protest over Thakuri’s investigating into it and hope to have a clearer picture later,” kidnapping by the Maoists. Badal said his party respected membership said Yogeshwar Romkhwami. Two people have been detained freedom of the press and that it would provide all assistance in Rajendra Mahato, in connection with the investigation of the case. tracing Thakuri. Chairman of the A terrorist outfit called Terai Army had owned the responsibil- Maoists had killed journalist Birendra Saha in Bara in October Sadhbhavana Party has ity for the crime that has been widely denounced by many soon after his kidnapping by the local leaders. No action has resigned his parliament quarters including the office of the Human Rights Commis- been taken against the people involved in Saha’s abduction and membership with sioner in Nepal (OHCHR). It has appealed to the government killing yet, although both the Maoists and the government had immediate effect. Mahato to bring all those responsible for the crime to justice. promised that the criminals would be brought to justice. who is associated with Police said at least three deceased had been identified by the United Madheshi January 19. They were Bhakti Bilash Lamichhane (23) from Sitaula grilled Sindhuli, Kumari Devi (45) from Sarlahi and Mukunda Khanal Morcha is the sixth Home Minister KP (60) from Mahottari. The five seriously wounded were brought member from Terai to Sitaula is known to be a to Kathmandu for treatment in an army helicopter while others quit the House member- thick skinned politician, are being treated in Birgunj. ship demanding that it be but he is finding it difficult dissolved immediately. to face his own support- Mahato announced his Badal to help trace ers who are raising the resignation at a public question of law and meeting in Siraha on missing journo order situation in the January 19 asserting that The Maoist leadership country. he will devote his time for the movement for an autonomous has at last broken its Leaders of the Nepal Terai region. Mahato had quit Nepal Sadhbhavana Party led by silence on the disappear- Students Union (NSU), Anandi Devi after she withdrew him from the GP Koirala led ance of journalist, the student wing of the cabinet. Prakash Singh Thakuri, Nepali Congress party, Those who have resigned from the interim parliament from almost six months ago, warned him that they Terai so far, include Mahanth Thakur, Ram Chandra Yadav, from his official premises would be boycotting his Hridayesh Tripathi, Mahendra Yadav and Jaya Prakash Gupta. in Mahendra Nagar. programmes in future if Except Gupta all others have joined the newly formed Terai Thakuri’s whereabouts he failed to reign in the Madhesh Loktantrik Party. Gupta, like Mahato is associated with are not known ever since Maoist activists and the Young communist league (YCL) cadres the UMM led by Upendra Yadav. he was abducted by local who have been targeting NSU activists in campuses and Maoist leaders in July. universities. Explosion Maoist leader, Ram Sitaula who was in the tour of western Nepal’s Butwal area The explosion in a public transport bus, that resulted in the Bahadur Thapa alias on January 19 tried to sidestep the issue by appealing to the instant death of seven passengers leaving at least 22 wounded, Badal said in Mahendra youths to ignore small things and concentrate more on the eight of them seriously, on January 18 near Pasaha bridge Nagar on January 19 that forthcoming polls to the constituent assembly. But they shouted along the high way in Bara district, still remains a mystery. his party would provide all the support and assistance to trace at him saying, “Don’t act like the stooge of the Maoists if you Thakuri. Badal’s assurance came when a group of right activists cannot act like a home minister.” 4 21-27 Jan, 2008 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 Greed is a fat demon with a small mouth and whatever you feed it is never enough. - Janwillem Ven De Wetering Politics of chair It was not very long ago that the Communist Party of Nepal- Maoists (CPN-M) and other constituents of the current ruling alliance vowed that they would establish a democracy that can never be snatched by anyone. But they gradually moved towards the politics of annihilating opposition. And democracy without opposition loses all its Letters meaning. They appropriated and monopolised the entire political process. From Prachanda to Madhav Nepal, all agreed to make GP millions by that act. Koirala the prime minister as well as the head of the state by putting Revoke KMC’s Sujata who will have him above the law. Their movement for democracy only meant communal deci- now access to all the establishing a dictator. sion government files can do lot Koirala has only moved a step forward from there. He has set up I was shocked to read more hanky panky in a his own dynasty after he managed to prolong his rule without that Kathmandu Municipal legitimate way. And she accountability. His daughter Sujata has been made a minister without Corporation (KMC) can do it freely now even consulting the Nepali Congress or the ruling alliance, a practice announced to give priority that he had been following all through during the past 21 months of because the parliament, as to people of Newar governance. He has taken the alliance partners’ servility for granted this newspaper correctly community for employ- this time as well. raised, has become a ment. I also belong to the Dynasty and democracy go together in South Asia. Nehrus in India rubber stamp and there is same community but I and Bhuttos in Pakistan are just a few examples. But in each case, they no hope of justice from the oppose this move. I have secured people’s mandate to legitimise the succession and bowed Supreme Court which is out of office when people have willed that through election. If necessary, believe that this is aimed increasingly under the they have made the sacrifice in defense of their nationalism and at dividing and segregat- influence of the executive. democracy by laying down their lives. ing people of the same Sujata, who has been But Sujata’s elevation has come through a process that can be country in the name of blessed by her all powerful called anything but democracy. Democracy becomes richer and community. The eventual father will now be able to stronger if leaders give up their position and power for principles and result will be horrendous loot the nation without any conviction. Such instances abound. for the stability of this accountability. The way Sujata Koirala has shown the guts to challenge the official line of country. Koirala quietly nominated the Nepali Congress on republic, stating publicly that monarchy Priority should be given her as the cabinet rank should be retained in the country. So her being appointed a minister to merit basis and if minister resembles the by her father appears more like a bribe to silence her. By accepting possible on economic manner King Gyanendra that, she has shown that she can barter her principles or political basis to a certain degree. made his son, Paras, the convictions for the chair. Giving opportunity to crown prince. Rightly, Nepali Congress leaders that include several parliamentar- people who are less ä Sudhir Aryal ians have now begun challenging the PM after the change he fortunate strictly on Kathmandu affected in the cabinet recently in which the father and the daughter economic basis would apparently stuck a deal. The elder Koirala only behaved like an help bridge the gap between the poor authoritarian ruler. The country cannot be held hostage by the lust for and the rich. This should be done power of a blind father and his ruthlessly ambitious daughter. In fact, irrespective of caste or community. License to loot Readers, your Sujata’s challenge has increased manifold and she has only limited I also would like to emphasise that this It is a shame that Nepal’s ‘Loktrantrik’ options. She can either turn down the ministerial berth and reach out is a sinister design aimed at quick Prime Minister Girija, threw all the reactions, criti- to the people for their support for her political line, or run the risk of electoral benefits. Thanks to the norms and decency that democracy cisms, comments, being branded as someone whose only aim in politics is the chair. Maoist’s absurd vision of ‘New Nepal’, demands and elevated his controversial GP Koirala was given the leadership of the government nearly two we have already seen enough division daughter, Sujata Koirala, to the rank of suggestions are years ago on an ad hoc basis with a limited responsibility to hold among Nepalis in the name of caste, a cabinet minister. Sujata’s credentials elections to the constituent assembly. He has already deceived the culture, creed and language. We can ill- as a member of the PM’s household has most welcome. nation twice by failing to keep the promise. He is apparently using the afford any more moves at segregating been marred as she used her father’s resultant anarchy and lack of legitimacy of the system to promote his this already divided nation. KMC should position to get Royal Nepal Airlines’ Please address it dynasty, something that the people of this country will not accept. revoke this decision immediately! General Sales Agency (GSA) for to: Hopefully, the international community, which is here on a large scale, ä Sanjay Tuladhar Europe, to her relatives, in 1992. [email protected] ostensibly to promote democracy in Nepal, understands this. Kathmandu Literally, she robbed the nation of

Spiritual Corner War is barbarity Caucasian war he wrote to Defeat the evil man by your teaching contradicted Islam. Still the influence . Kunta-haji Kishiev was Chechen Muslim Chechnya from Mekka: goodness and love Defeat the of Kunta-haji only grew. . mystic, the founder of a Sufi branch named War is a barbarity. Move greedy with your generousity Considering Kunta-haji as a threat the Zikrism, and an ideologue of nonviolence and away from anything that Defeat the treacherous with Governor-General of Terek ordered his . passive resistance. He is often referred as the reminds you of war if the your sincerity Defeat the infidel arrest. Kunta-haji and his brother, Movsar, . Chechen Mahatma Gandhi. enemy does not attempt to with your fidelity were arrested and taken to Novocherkassk Kunta-haji Kishiev was born in a Chechen take your belief and your Despite the fact that Kunta- prison in January 1863. In 1928 documents lowland village of Isti-Su. In his youth he was honor. Your strength is haji repeatedly rejected the title were found confirming that Kunta-haji died in distinguished by his hard work and sharp your wisdom, patience and of imam he was seen as a exile in the town of Ustyuzhna. The followers mental senses. Kunta received a solid religious fairness. The enemy would threat to the Imerial authorities of Kunta-haji believe that their teacher is one education and was a follower of shaykh Gezi- not be able to crash that and the official version of Islam of the 360 saints that keep the world alive and haji from the village of Zandak. He started strength and eventually supported by Russian authori- that he would return to Earth at a future time. practicing Loud Zikr: prayer with dancing, would be forced to ties. By the request of the Tsar’s The tomb of Kunta-haji’s mother, Kheda, is singing, rolling and recitation of divine names. recognise his defeat. Nobody would be able to administration, official Islamic clerics considered sacred as the spring nearby that is He became a strong supporter of non-violence defeat you and your rights if you would not organised public theological discussions believed to have been started by Kunta-haji and peace. In the midst of the bloody move from your belief. with Kunta-haji trying to prove that his pushing his stick into the earth. Debating Development 21-27 Jan, 2008 5

Leaders of the Seven Party Alliance attending the first joint mass meeting to campaign for the CA elections, last week. Niraj Sapkota

ä Alok K Bohara Election perk

Without much fanfare, the current interim ments, and invigorates innovations and growth. Then there are the new Madhesi parties parliamentary body two weeks ago quietly ready to challenge the establishment. Do they decided to give its members Rs 1 million each as In politics too, we expect to have a level qualify to receive some of these funds? What elections perk out of the government coffer. playing field so that the new candidates with about those Dalits and women who may form a There was hardly any coverage of this news in fresh ideas stand a chance to challenge the party to compete in the election? Will they also the media. Demonstration of a collective greed incumbents. Many countries do have some be compensated to offset the monetary edge of by the people’s representatives is nothing new in forms of campaign financing laws to prevent the established political machinery of the Seven politics. But the nature of the intention and the undue influence of money and power in the Party Alliance (SPA)? timing should raise alarm among those who election campaign. What happened last week in care about making the elections a clean and the interim parliament has serious unintended Acting as a political oligarchy, distributing competitive process in Nepal. What happened consequences. governmental resources for the self-serving Giving every last week in the interim parliamentary will set a motivation of its members for the purpose of bad precedent for our infant democracy. A group of parties in the parliament coming winning election may even be considered incumbent together to pass a bill to give themselves Rs 400 unconstitutional. After all, a constitution is We all have fresh memory of the famous million election perks is a form of election supposed to guarantee competitive party polity Rs 1 million Pajero and Jambo cabinet scandals, and who collusion. Giving every incumbent Rs 1 million and fair election. This act of the interim before the can forget the royal exploits of King Gyanendra. before the election violates the basic democratic parliament does neither, and so there I am sure there are similar examples of duty principle of a free and fair election practice. It may be some ground to have it reversed by election vio- free import privilege extracted by the Panchas. inhibits independents from running for offices the Supreme Court. But this pre-election self-serving bonus is and thwarts healthy competition. In small lates the ba- uniquely detrimental to our effort in creating villages, the sitting parliamentarians will have an In response to my concern, a veteran civil small “ds’ that are essential to establish the big undue monetary advantage of influencing the society leader responded as follows: “It seems sic demo- “D” as in democracy. What is more puzzling is local politics. now we have NGOs, civil society actors, the the lack of media who are all constrained by their own cratic prin- opposition to this act by the media. This tendency of grabbing money from the party affiliations and other interests. We have to ciple of a incumbents by electorates will also erode do what we can within these constraints.” In a free market society, price fixing through democratic process at the local level. This free and fair collusion is considered a crime. Consequently, happened in the local level election in 2001 in I hope that the fight for ‘lokatantric’ in the anti-trust laws are put in place to bar companies Tamil Nadu where the villagers voted for those country is not just about personal and/or group election from conspiring to manipulate prices to retain contestants who donated 30 bags of cement for convenience. It is indeed sad to see people’s undue market advantage. British Airways had to a temple construction. names being used to advance programs that practice. pay a record £121.5 million fine for colluding are so anti-people and anti-lokatantric. This with rival airline Virgin Atlantic on surcharges. Instead of fighting to restore democratic seriously raises question about the current South Korea’s government too aggressively electoral mechanism to promote competitive- parliament’s fast-eroding legitimacy and its goes after companies found suspicious of ness, the current interim parliamentary body has commitments towards the public goods. When colluding and working against the spirit of promoted election collusion. It is simply a slap on companies collude for a collective greed, they market competitiveness. Competitive environ- the face of what we know as “liberal democ- can be punished in the court of law. But, who will ment and competition among the companies racy”. This pro-incumbent bill also falls flat in the punish the lawmakers for making the self- generally produce quality product, lower prices, face of those grass-roots young leaders who serving bad laws? and benefit the consumers. Free and competi- are demanding internal democracy within their (The writer is Professor of Economics, tive market welcomes new firms, fresh invest- own parties. University of New Mexico) 6 21-27 Jan, 2008 Inter Nepal is a delicate flower that is about to die. All history is politically mo

Ted Riccardi, born in Philadelphia in 1937, has history can be used for different people’s ends. a BA from Harvard and MA and Ph.D in Oriental It’s a fact that history can be twisted, can be Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. He given different interpretations for the same also studied at the School of Oriental and thing. It is a battle for the truth and you have to African studies in London, and the University of contend with it. People are going to write Rome, Italy. He taught at Columbia University history no matter what and it better be good from l968 to l999 where he was Professor of history if you want a population that under- Indian and Himalayan Studies. At Columbia he stands what it is. served as Director of the Southern Asian Institute and Chairman of the Middle East and It would be an exaggeration to say that the Asian Languages and Cultures Department. present political situation in Nepal in general is From l980-82 he served as Counselor for due to the lack of the understanding of history; Cultural Affairs, United States Embassy, New but on the other hand it would be better it Delhi. seems to me, if the leaders of this country had an idea of what that history is, what it is for, and In l999 he took early retirement to pursue acted accordingly. further research and the writing of fiction. His most recent works are “The Oriental Casebook How do you think they can be educated of Sherlock Holmes” (Random House: 2004) better? and, with Mohan Prasad Khanal, “Archaeologi- cal Excavations in the Kathmandu Valley” I think they have to create active groups of (Harvard Oriental Series). He lives with his wife people like Babu Ram Acharya, Surya Bikram and two younger children in Kathmandu. Gyawali, Mahesh Chandra Regmi..etc.. These Excerpts from the conversation he had with people wrote history and they know a lot. Sushma Amatya: Replacing them are a very few. I think you have to build up scholarly cadres of people, some of When did you first come to Nepal and what whom will be historians who can help lead the keeps you here? country.

I first came to Nepal in 1965 as a university Is it true that history is mostly written by student and came back often, since I developed the winners? more and more research interests here in history and culture of the country, and I started Hitler may have said that and many believe it. to publish more on Nepal. I think I fell in love In the long run, I don’t think it’s true. And with Nepal. When I first saw it, I found Nepal besides we don’t want that kind of history. hypnotising. Coming from an industrialised world, I had never seen a country operating on One of the things that have been happening such very different principles. I found most in America, particularly in regard to the history of Nepalis very attractive, intelligent and also what the subcontinent in general – is what has been they produced very attractive, and how they called a subaltern movement, the history of the produced in the context of nature without poor class, the disenfranchised, those who destroying everything around it. cannot represent themselves. We don’t want to know only about the history of kings. The great You are working on an edition of Newari historian here, who did not worry about the dictionary? history of the kings very much was Mahesh Chandra Regmi, considered by many to be A dictionary that was compiled in 1792 AD by Nepal’s most brilliant economic historian. He an Italian priest, one of the catholic fathers sent all point to their own view of how history started. that first came the Gopalas, then the Kiratas, knew what it meant to write history which was here to try to convert the people to Christianity. But people don’t know this. They have a feeling Licchavis, Mallas and then the Shahs. As you unaffected by fashion or politics. He had a point It’s a dictionary that I first photographed in 1973 that history is somewhat skewed but they don’t move forward in time, it is clear that we know of view. and never got around to working on it. Now I know why or how. more about the Shahs, almost nothing about the am working to prepare an edition of the Gopalas or Kiratas. There is little in the way of About your other works? dictionary, which is in Newari and Italian, and What could be done would be to have more historical records concerning these last two. And probably the longest and the oldest dictionary of seminars indicating what the sources of Nepali who are the Kiratas? Kirata is a difficult word to The first thing that I did was the study of the Newari language with around 10,000 entries. It history are and their nature. You have a whole interpret. It refers to a group of people but it is King and the Corpse – a celebrated Sanskrit will be of value to scholars to see how the list of kings some of them reigning for a hundred an epithet of Shiva as well. If we find it in an work which has been translated into Nepali. language developed. years – very difficult to believe that anybody lived ancient inscription, how do we interpret it, how That was the work I did for my Ph.D. I’ve so long then. If you start with 3102 BC, the do we assign a meaning to it? written many articles: one a commentary and Your understanding of Nepali history and beginning of Kali Yuga, you have 5000 years to translation of a portion of Sylvain Levi’s Le how politically motivated it was? fill. It’s a small point but it does indicate the fact Nepal, an article on the royal edicts of Ram that the chroniclers had to become very Why is history important? Shah of Gorkha. I also investigated the story of I think all histories are politically motivated or inventive. those Nepalis who left their homes here in the motivated by a view of the world. History is History may not be important; but to me it is valley, forced out by Prithvi Narayan Shah in formed by that. In Nepal there are two things Most of the students I know here of any age the grounding of where you are. It gives you a 1769, because they had been converted to that I noticed: one is that if you strip Nepali don’t really have any idea of Nepali history. I foundation, a point of view to look at the world Christianity. They wound up in a small village in history down to its bare elements, you have a think that is one of the things that education is from. A history is not a science, in the sense Bihar called Chuhadi. In 1978, I went there to skeleton of verified facts. The rest of it is fat not doing properly. There should be more of it, it that you can corroborate everything. It involves see who of these Nepali converts remained. added to it. A lot of history here is mostly should be scholarly informed by new discover- a certain amount of speculation but to me it is Only two descendants of the original group legends and written from a particular point of ies, by the kinds of theories that teaches the narrative we each form in one way or were still alive. Eleazar and his wife Susannah. view. To give you a case in point, there are in students to question, to explore and not just another during our lives. We can’t avoid history, About 200 people in all had come to Bihar for Nepal Bansavalis – chronicle or list of kings accept what is handed down to them. what happened yesterday, or ten years ago. refuge and intermingled with the local mostly written in the 19th century - some written And therefore you better have the best version population. This man I met was the last man by Newar Pundits and some by Brahmins. They To cite another problem, some historians say of it that’s possible, and you better know that who spoke Newari.

The winner will always be there. Power will always be a part of knowledge and knowledge is at least partially relative to time and society. it. Otherwise you will end up with nothing worth having. That has not been done. You have to create it in younger people. You have to get rview 21-27 Jan, 2008 7 Well, that flower is dying if not already dead.

One of the problems of Nepal is what do we choose from the outside world and how otivated long do we take to make those changes and how much will it cost?

About the changes you have seen in Nepal? already dead. Nepal is no longer an isolated short cuts and because social fabric all over the Do you think Nepali history should be re- country. It is a middle sized country in the world world are getting weaker and getting replaced written? One of the problems of Nepal is what do we system, trying to fit itself into a not so attractive by the consumer society and it is probably the choose from the outside world and how long world system. way the whole world is going to go down, a Yes, a lot of ideas that Nepalis have about do we take to make those changes and how darkening of the world. We have to accept a themselves came through foreign eyes. That much will it cost? These questions were never Even Dor Bahadur Bista said when I radically different Nepal 50 years from now, just dependency has to be broken. And historical really answered well it seems to me. Nepal showed him the grey layer in the sky, “I don’t as we must accept a radically different world. and social clarity needs a moratorium on plunged headlong into development. Nepalis care. We want progress.” He saw progress in insulting other people needlessly. wanted changed, they sloughed off the old the sky and I saw pollution, I don’t see how How does one find a balance? culture. They threw much of it out. One of the these two views can reconcile. It is quite We are fond of saying that Nepal is a tiny reasons why many artifacts land up outside it shocking for me when I hear some Nepalis I think you need a group of people at the top, country. Nepal is not a tiny country. Maldives because the Nepalis said - I don’t want it, take say that they want big industries. Where are experienced people who know the world, may be a tiny country but not Nepal with 27 it. I want the world of pollution, factories, they going to put it? There should have been between age 40 and 60, who on one side are million people! Think that is tiny? That would be airplanes. I want dirty air and streets clogged a lot more thinking, discussion about such technocrats and on the other are brilliant my way of teaching history. I would begin by with traffic. things, instead of seeing economic develop- politicians. The balance has to come from such examining the clichés of Nepali history and start ment in a simplistic way. leaders who can engage the society in a broad to bring down the heroism of great kings, I don’t think anybody could have changed dialogue. The present leadership talks only to legends and look at them very clearly and that. It is a very natural thing for people to want Was it not a desperate attempt to move itself. Leading a rebellion and running a continue to chop the attitude that are no longer different things they have not had before. On away from dire poverty? government are very different things. We are useful. the other hand, had the changes been slower, now close to total failure in running a govern- more methodical, more aligned to the needs of Yes, but only partially. The conditions here ment. In Jaisideval, there are two inscriptions from a the people rather than the selfish view, it would should not have been allowed to exist. Where much earlier century. Everyday they deteriorate have been a lot better. Right now you have were the Ranas and the Shahs when the lepers Your comment on rising communal feelings further, threatened by drums of kerosene that chaos, a slow stagnant chaos but chaos were walking down the road? What were they here? hide them. Where else in the world can you find nevertheless, and no sign of this chaos abating. doing? Well, we know what they were doing. ancient inscriptions of such antiquity unat- It seems a permanent feature. You had a ruthless aristocracy ruling a docile, You see this everywhere. I think this is tended? These are not just antique texts, but injured, fearful population. inevitable. It is the result of the homogenisation statements from another world, gifts that also Development here has been something of so much of our lives. It is a natural instinct to tell us something about that world and our rather international rather than from within the How much does history shape your cordon oneself off but it does not do anything. In predecessors. If that is not valuable to you, I country with your own resources. When you psyche? Nepal, the feelings are less venomous than can’t persuade you. Ultimately we need history, have a dependency, when you let people tell you elsewhere, and one can only hope that this too if only to form a convincing narrative about what to do, you make mistakes and this is a big When I meet young people and try and see shall pass. ourselves. ä mistake. From a Nepal that had nothing 50 what they know about their own country, I sense years ago to a Nepal in which you can find a very distorted picture, I see laziness, not everything, but in total disorder and disarray, enough reading, not enough thought. They shoddily done, you have the changes but not obviously know a lot about jobs, computers, so very desirable ones. many other things are vying for their attention. This psyche has no shape but that of modernity. It is a big question all over the world: How do So why should they spend time reading about you direct this desire legitimately and rightly king Manadeva or Amshuvarman; or learning motivated into a better world, a better society? what a critical point of view is relative to history, In Nepal, there is a lot more food in the market how it was made and how you fit into it? etc, and more of everything. But even after Because it protects you from evil. It is a funny years of international development you still can’t thing to say but truth, whether it is in historical turn on the tap and get a glass of clean water. If form, whether in religious form or artistic form is Nepal had gone for more for the basics, it would one. have been better off. I don’t think foreigners should come in Nepal and tell them what to do. The winner will always be there. Power will This goes for myself and other foreigners. You always be a part of knowledge and knowledge is are the ones responsible for the adaptation of at least partially relative to time and society. With what’s coming into the country. your own history, you have to put your psyche, mind, brain into it. Otherwise you will end up One of the great losses of this country was with nothing worth having. That has not been the early death, disablement and impeachment done. You have to create it in younger people. of best leaders like BP Koirala, Ganesh Man You have to get them to ask why do I have to Singh, Man Mohan Adhikari, etc. Nepal would know about the Buddha for example? Because have been better off if it had fallen straight into a you have to know the truth. It is not something democratic society of 1951 on; instead of you carry around in your pocket. It is an effort to swinging back and forth. Panchayati system was learn something and see it deeply. a thirty year calamity. What did Nepal teach you? The present leaders have not been able to pull Nepal in a direction more rational than its I learned a lot about myself, about the world present course. Anybody walking down the by living here. It is not a one way street. The street in Nepal with half a brain would know biggest thing I’ve learned is how important the what needs to be done. But the cost is going to social fabric of your society is, how strong it be very very high because they were allowed to should be. This country has a very strong sense reach a point they should not have. There will of itself, of community and of relations between come a time when this valley will be completely people. This gives one hope. covered in cement, cars, and pollution. It may very well be the end. A demographer, Kingsley Is not the fabric weakening? Davis said that Nepal is a delicate flower that is about to die. Well, that flower is dying if not Very much so. Because people tend to take

With your own history, you have to put your psyche, mind, brain into t them to ask why do I have to know about the Buddha for example? 8 21-27 Jan, 2008 Opinion

Down with male A Madhesi Minister speaking in a mass meeting dominated politics The challenge for Terai politics is to honestly create an equal political space for women. ä Sabita Gyawali political parties, their leaders, Terai should be able to create their new political dynamics political space to raise voices Terai has have definitely tried to create for those women who have recently new political ground for been the victims of patriarchy, entered a new identity politics but the male who are raped, who are political space. domination within these burnt due to dowry issues, Niraj Sapkota It has been changed political contexts and who are dominated able to challenge the state, clearly manifest the exclusive simply because they are Elections are impossible without solving the Terai problem. government, its' ruling politics of patriarchy. Dalits and women. mechanism, mainstream political parties and their Under the identity politics of Most often, leaders of Terai attitudes. This movement has Terai and its people, identity of make a good political excuse Electoral facade been able to create an Terai women, their represen- when the issues of women important political space for tation, and their come and that is by saying: ä Siddhartha Thapa forever. And it is very unlikely that the Terai Terai in Nepali politics. acknowledgement as the "As the entire Terai is going leaders would kow-tow to the threat posed by equal rights holders have through domination, so first it With less than three months the SPA and participate in the elections. However the challenge for been grossly neglected even is important to fight for the left for elections, recent Terai politics is to honestly in the present scenario. right of Terai as a whole and political developments India who is a large stakeholder in the Terai create an equal political space Terai has not been able to when we achieve this goal suggest it is becoming affairs would also prefer that the Terai fiasco for women. Within the nurture women representa- then automatically the situation increasingly apparent that be solved before the elections. And the changed political context still tives who can lead Terai and of women and Dalits will be elections are so far only a distant mirage. Indians know it very well that if the problem is patriarchy is dominant and strongly raise its issues. There improved." There are two critical points of analysis that is not solved before the elections, it will never be being repeatedly ignored and those are solved after the elections. But the interest of directly correlated with the prospects of the major three parties in Terai clashes. None timely elections happening: the Terai problem of them would want to go to the poll if their and the intent of the Maoist leadership. position is not better than the other’s. More over, they have avoided taking a clear stand The Maoists through the effective usage of on the issues since that may weaken their Home Minister KP Sitaula have ambushed electoral prospects. That means the big three the Nepali Congress (NC) into a state of - Maoists, NC and the UML are in no mood to paralysis. After the agitation in the Terai early solve the problem. last year, a majority of the political parties lost their base there temporarily. The Indians It is also equally important to scrutinise the ever since then had been cajoling the prime intent of the Maoist leadership. On the 1st of minister to move the NC in Terai and fill in January, Prachanda released a statement the political vacuum created. As a result of demanding that the PLA should be ready to continued ignorance demonstrated by the use their weapons impromptu in the NC, the Indians were forced to glue together immediate future. Due to continued absence a group of moderate Terai leaders to fulfill of government authority at all levels; the two purposes - neutralise the radicalisation of Maoists are consistently seeking avenues to Terai and to fill in the political vacuum. overwhelm the state. Therefore, it is but natural for them to make the inevitable u-turn Credible information suggests that Maoists and shy away from elections yet again. are left with only about ten functioning district committees. An influential Terai leader The intelligence apparatus of the Nepal confided that Swiss diplomat Gunther had Police that has presided by no other person newsfront been approaching various Terai factions than Sitaula fears that Maoists may be there is continuous trend of are few established symbolic This is again a dangerous repeatedly to work out a possible alliance deploying the Young Communist League domination and suppression of names of women representa- patriarchal politics that always between the Maoists and the Madeshi (YCL) cadre in rural areas and the villages to th women. Unfortunately Terai tives like Chitra Lekha Yadav thinks of freedom from male groups. However, Gunther's initiatives were capture voting booths at the 11 hour, so that; has not been able to create (Nepali Congress), Renu perspective. It should be clear rejected downright by the agitating Terai the international community and the Nepal political space for women even Yadav (RPP), Anadi Devi of that freedom is always equal groups because they sensed his initiative as Army will be in no position to thwart their within the ongoing movement Rastriya Sadbhawana party to every human being and a ploy that was ultimately aimed at aiding the booth capturing designs. of identity and transformation; and Sarita Giri, in Terai politics. every human being wants Maoists to regain the lost ground in the Terai. and the politics of patriarchy is Their representation is freedom. Gunther’s term was over without his being If the Maoist leadership comes to a still dominant. significant within the broader Leaders of Terai should able to have his initiative materialised. conclusion that the election option is not worth political contexts and this has now be clear that Terai does the risk, the Maoists will start galvanising the Patriarchy is a system where played an important role to not belong only to males and But Maoists also independently pursued issue of PLA-NA integration as the primary male are considered to be inspire other women as well. feudal Madhesis. It belongs to the move. Maoist Foreign Affairs Chief CP issue to scuttle the polls. And succeed they superior, they are the heads of But their symbolic representa- all. Likewise in democracy Gajurel met a senior leader of the will because, the NC and the UML owe their the family and outside of family. tion in some places does not each and every sector of Janatantrik Terai Mukti Morcha (Goit) last accession to power to the Maoists. Any Thus family, society, rules and represent overall women of people should have equal summer when Goit was critically ill. fracture in the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) regulations all are guided by Terai and their situation. opportunity to lead a dignified However, Gajurel failed to work out an alliance would threaten GP Koirala's position the males and their wishes. life and access to their rights. alliance between the Maoists and the Goit as the PM and the Maoists will exploit his Males are considered superior The situation of Dalit group. Nonetheless, due to the fluidity of weakness for power to fulfill their objectives. to women as they have access women and many other such Patriarchy exists both in the situation in the Terai, the Maoists are to power and they become marginalised groups of Terai and Pahad; but at a time now in their last phase of preparation to Although nobody has claimed the responsi- influential in social, political and women is even deplorable. when Terai is going through reenter Terai and regain the lost ground. bility of the bomb blast after the SPA meeting cultural system. Terai is going through the the identity crisis and creating This is because almost 50 percent of the in Khulamanch the other day, all fingers point burden imposed by Pahadi a new political environment in electoral constituencies are in the Terai and at the Maoists. This is because the intelli- As a result, there is very politics; and within Terai, the the country, it is extremely it is pivotal for any party who wishes to win gence agencies and the security agencies systematic domination of marginalised section is going important to create a political a majority in the elections to win a substan- have received reports confirming that the women. Women are forced to through hard times imposed space for women as well. In tive number of seats there. Maoists in their last CWC have devised two accept the notions of by the upper class. Women at this sense Terai has a strategies. First, posture as if the party is patriarchy that are very all levels face layers of historical opportunity to But elections are impossible without solving ready to go to the polls. Second, make all systematically introduced to dominations. recognise women leadership the Terai problem. What we have to necessary measures to scuttle the polls and them and there is no and give priority to women's understand is that if the elections are held galvanise the situation to the party's favour alternative. Terai politics still The time has come to issues, which could be a without solving the problem; the people of and portray the Maoist party as the alternate lies inside the vicious circle of question all these power lesson for the entire national the Terai would have lost an opportunity to the Koirala government. ä patriarchy. So called new structures. The leaders of politics. ä Fromt the region 21-27 Jan, 2008 9 CIA names Bhutto ‘killers’ Britain: ‘World’s leaving a rally in Rawalpindi. Baitullah Mehsud has denied involvement. The Pakistani govern- eyes on Sri Lanka’ ment says it intercepted a phone conversation proving that he was Britain has exhorted the Sri behind the attack. Lankan government to push for ‘Organised campaign’ peace, as violence threatened to CIA Director Michael Hayden is worsen in the government’s now backing the Pakistani campaign against terror. government’s view. “This was done by that network The British government’s around Baitullah Mehsud. We have warning Friday followed Sri no reason to question that,” Mr Lankan Prime Minister Rathnasiri Hayden told the Washington Post. Wickramanayaka’s announcement He said the murder was “part of an that the country’s armed forces organised campaign” that has had a free hand to carry out efforts included suicide bombings and other to wipe out terrorism without attacks on Pakistani leaders. interference from politicians. Mr Hayden said that the same The prime minister said Asif Ali Zardari, husband of forces were responsible for a new Pakistan’s slain opposition outbreak of violence sweeping across Thursday evening the government leader Benazir Bhutto, addresses Pakistan which was undermining the had “given full freedom to the the media at a news conference stability of President Pervez armed forces to conduct the war,” in Karachi, Pakistan, Tuesday, Lanka Page reported. Jan. 15, 2008. Musharraf’s government. “You’ve got this nexus now that probably was always there in latency “Let the armed forces heads to with the Tamil Tigers rebel group but is now active: a nexus between handle the war, as politicians were this week, triggering an eruption The CIA has added its support to December. al-Qaeda and various extremist and not experts in that field,” he said. of violence that has left dozens the view that a Pakistani militant, Mr Hayden did not reveal the separatist groups,” Mr Hayden said. dead. Baitullah Mehsud, and al-Qaeda sources for his claim. “It is clear that their intention is to But the British government told organised Benazir Bhutto’s killing. Correspondents say that Mr continue to try to do harm to the Sri Lankan President Mahinda British Foreign Office Minister CIA Director Michael Hayden told Hayden’s comments are the most Pakistani state as it currently exists.” Rajapakse “the world is watching Kim Howells called for a new the Washington Post that the former comprehensive public assessment by Forces belonging to Baitullah and waiting” for the island nation to cease-fire. Howells said the Pakistani prime minister was killed by US intelligence of Ms Bhutto’s death. Mehsud have also been blamed by take steps toward peace, The president’s refusal to bring Tamil fighters allied to Baitullah Mehsud. Controversy still surrounds the the government for seizing a fort from Times of India reported. representatives into the All Party The Pakistani government accused circumstances of the killing. the military in the troubled region of Representative Committee was “a Mehsud of the attack shortly after Ms One or more attackers shot at her South Waziristan on Wednesday. The Sri Lankan government big mistake.” Bhutto’s death in Rawalpindi on 27 and detonated a bomb as she was (BBC online) formally ended its 2002 cease-fire (UPI) 10 21-27 Jan, 2008 Perspective A paradigm shift Everything arises through causes and conditions.

ä Acharya Mahayogi that matter. In Sanskrit, we use the Marshland Flowers Sridhar Rana Rinpoche word Unishwarvadin. Iswhar meaning the creator – God. However, We do not need a being of any kind Buddhism is not ‘Nastik’/non-believer to create gravity. It is the law of nature as some misled or illiterate Hindus that whenever there is some mass there would like to believe. is gravity. This is what Niyaam means in Many people Buddhism. Everything arises through Astik comes from the word ‘Astha’ get confused causes and conditions; and those which means belief. So Astik would causes and conditions themselves arise mean ‘believer’ as opposed to ‘Nastik’ because many through other causes and conditions. which would mean ‘non believer’. systems of Because of this there can be no While Buddhism does not accept the beginning. Therefore there can be no Vedas or any other scriptures and meditation also creation ‘in the beginning’. About this whatever comes within their use the word there are no two minds within any form paradigm, it does believe that man non–dual like of Buddhism. Any system that believes can be free from suffering and thus in a beginning (and thus a creator) attain Mokchhya or Mukti. It does Buddhism and cannot subscribe to the principle that all believe in karma and the cycle of thus come to things arise from causes and conditions. existence, it does believe in other And without that, that system of thought realms of existence; it does believe the conclusion does not and cannot fall within the that man can attain enlightenment. that the final paradigm of Buddhism. Thus it is an ‘Astik’ system. In a point ‘non – sense, all systems believe their own Many people get confused because tenets and thus are ‘Astik’. dual’ is the many systems of meditation also use same. But this the word non–dual like Buddhism and But Buddhism is a paradigm shift thus come to the conclusion that the from all other theistic systems, be is merely a final point ‘non – dual’ is the same. But into English both are called non – Buddhism is non-theistic. Here, non- they monotheistic or polytheistic. With confusion that this is merely a confusion that arose dual. This is a complex topic we shall theistic does not mean not believing in this background now let us take up arose due to due to the use of similar words. deal with later. gods and goddesses and other what the Abhidharma has to say Actually the Sanskrit word used in realms of existence where they exist. about the psi phenomena. the use of Buddhism is Advaya while in monothe- Let it be said that whereas most That would be atheistic. Non-theistic (To be continued) similar words. istic system, it is Advaita (Hinduism to other religious systems are theistic here means, not believing in a single (Sridhar Rinpoche is a Vajrayana be more specific); but when translated (Taoism being the only exception). creator or any creator as such for Master) Indo-Nepal economic relations Nepal’s prestige and honor is sinking rapidly.

Nepal is said to be a land of the Nepal’s hydropower development, blessed, but it seems to have its and it is different from the earlier share of curse as well. The recent stances of doing everything through stress between Indo-Nepal relations domestic mobilisation of capital. Now, came from nowhere. At a time when the question that remains to be ä Binod P. Bista the entire nation, supported by the answered by the Maoist leadership is friendly countries, mostly the what should the Nepali and the neighbors, is trying to gear up for the outside investors understand of this constituent assembly elections, anti- and several other mutually contradic- Indian remarks on the ongoing issues tory statements coming from the come as a surprise to everyone. senior Maoist leaders.

As if it were not enough, the all It is worthwhile to ponder on the It is common powerful legislature parliament, by statement of the Indian envoy to Nepal knowledge that passing a directive to the govern- who believes that the slowing down of ment to refrain from the usage of Indian investment to Nepal was not the trade balance certain words, and the concerned caused by the security situation but by minister showing more concern on relations’ in the Nepali capital, the sectors and households. While the lack of clarity on ‘investment incentives, between Nepal Nepal’s neighbor’s anticipated finance minister of Nepal could not entire nation was brooding on this regulatory environment, stability of and India is reaction than dealing with the issue, refrain from mentioning the bulging issue, a senior Maoist leader came policy’ and such other matters. With a have made fun of themselves at the trade deficit that Nepal faced against up with a pleasant surprise in a strong influence on the government tipped highly in cost of the nation. Nepal’s prestige India. He was of the view that the meeting hosted by a business and legislature, the Maoists are at the favor of the and honor is sinking rapidly. same could be addressed by community recently. centre of all activities in Nepal today. developing hydropower projects and Nepalis as well as the foreign investors latter. Despite It is common knowledge that the exporting electricity to India. The Stating that the Maoists want to have been focusing on the policy trade balance between Nepal and finance minister blamed the strengthen ‘capitalist industrial priorities of the Maoists, which are still several rounds India is tipped highly in favor of the ‘lackadaisical attitude in policy making development’, he said that his party unclear to most in spite of them of discussions latter. Despite several rounds of and implementing levels’ of Nepal for has adopted the policy of promoting enjoying power without accountability discussions and dialogue, the the lack of progress in the hydro- private-public partnership to build an for the past two years now. and dialogue, the situation remains far from satisfac- power sector. industrially strong Nepal. He further situation re- tory. Urgent measures are required went on to add that the Maoists Any discussion on Nepal’s to correct this situation if the two Unless the Maoists are assured of believed that domestic capital should economic development, particularly mains far from countries are serious about their full power after the CA be used in small and medium in hydropower, would not be furthering their relations in a healthy elections, obstruction to ongoing hydropower projects while foreign complete without considering India satisfactory. and happy manner. national level projects is not helpful in capital would be necessary for mega as the market. As the two nations anyway. Present load shedding, now hydro projects. are closely bonded by geography in In a recently concluded seminar running into two full days’ time worth, such a way, given the will, they can on ‘Nepal-India trade and economic has impacted almost all productive This is a sensible strategy for make the best out of the situation. Society 21-27 Jan, 2008 11 Freezing street children There are more than 500 organisations working for children in Kathmandu.

ä Akanchha Karki with dogs. Another street child, Bhanu Basnyat, said, “We cannot sleep the entire High after sniffing on a dendrite tube, 12 night because of the cold.” year old Ramu Thapa of Butwal fumbled to As it is, these children are at high risk of speak not just because he was drowsy, but many diseases, and coupled with malnutrition, because his thin torn cotton vest was not the winter decreases their immunity sharply. enough to fight the freezing January cold. Pneumonia is the biggest enemy of these Like Ramu, there are more than 500 street children. Ramu recalls his friends who died children sauntering in the streets of because of the exposure. Toughened and bitter, Kathmandu. They have their own reasons these children have learned to accept harsh- for leaving home. According to a recent ness that comes with their insecure lives. study by Sahara group, a majority of these Various organisations have made efforts children follow their friends and relatives to help these children by proving them food, who ran away from their homes. They suffer shelter, opportunity to education and from the misconception that life is better out reintegration; but with increasing poverty on the streets, because they think they get to and especially because of the past decade be free there. They also run away due to of conflict, there has been a huge rise in the socio-economic problems. 13-year-old number of street children. Pradip Khatri said he left home because his On 2005, CWIN-Nepal inaugurated a two stepmother used to beat him up. month long winter camp for street children in After coming to Kathmandu, very few return order to protect them from cold and to enhance back home. They somehow manage to adjust in their social abilities. Many children benefited the busy streets of Kathmandu. According to the from this camp. CWIN believes that these study, one fourth of these children have been kinds of camps not only protect the children associated with shelters, but they have from winter, but also reintegrates them socially. problems adjusting there and flee. Though the However, a majority of the street children say purpose of these homes for children is to give that they have not received help from anyone. them opportunities for socialisation and They do not want to be sheltered or study in a accommodation, the children prefer staying in school, because their experiences with it the streets on their own. Some feel their peers earlier have not been good, according to them. and staff members in the shelters mistreat them. Pradip Khatri says, “We do not want to study I expected a different answer when I in school. We like here on the streets. But, it is asked them what the most difficult part about hard during winters.” 12-year-old Bhanu adds, living on streets was and the reply was, “People should give us blankets, warm clothes ‘Jaado Mahina’ (winter season). Cops, and food.” thieves and ‘junkies’ and bullies scared There are more than 500 organisations them but the cold weather clearly was their working for children in Kathmandu. If only toughest enemy. They own just one set of one organisation took care of one street clothes, which most of them found in child and put in their best efforts into helping garbage. To protect themselves from cold, the child, the problem of street children they cuddle with their friends and sometimes would not be there anymore. Bhashwor Ojha Nepali carpet has more potential

…More than 1.4 million sq. metres of carpet was exported last year.

Carpet export from Nepal has been ä Pramesh Pradhan and delay in Kathmandu airport, among seven years continuously. Though space in Domotex fair and playing an important role in other things. several important governmental organisation of national design balancing the trade deficit in Nepal. Domotex, the world’s Carpet is the number one export officials including ministers have been competition would be beneficial for It is estimated that the industry has biggest trade fair for product in Nepal. It constitutes 30.8% participating for years in the fair, the Nepal. been providing around 150,000 carpet and flooring, was of our total national export amounting governmental role played by TEPC in Nepali private business community jobs to people in Nepal. Carpet held in Hannover, to more than Rs. 5.3 billion, in the last planning and coordinating the fair also need to learn to work together. making is a tradition in Nepal Germany. This year’s fiscal year. According to the statistics, appeared poor. Nepali embassy in They are at times, accused of being especially in the Himalayan and edition, a four-day event from 12th to more than 1.4 million sq. metres of Germany has to play a better role in silent at needed hours and not joining hilly regions. 15th January had 1442 exhibitors from carpet was exported last year. The supporting Nepali exhibitors in their hands together for overall national 80 countries; exhibiting their products major market for Nepali carpet is pursuit of market promotion. export of carpet. Nepali private carpet and services, latest trends and Germany, USA, UK, Turkey, Associations representing carpet community needs to explore newer developments of carpet and flooring, Switzerland, Netherlands, Austria, communities in Nepal unfortunately markets, take a lead role in establishing spread over around 100,000 sq. Belgium, Italy and Canada. seem not united, resulting in some special carpet zone equipped with metres. The fair annually attracts over Carpet export from Nepal has been important issues not being addressed. required infrastructure, enhance design 44,000 visitors of which 60% are playing an important role in balancing There is a need to sort out the development and organise promotional trade visitors. The exhibition ground of the trade deficit in Nepal. It is estimated differences and work together. Carpet campaigns in potential markets. Making Hannover is the biggest in the world that the industry has been providing exporters and manufacturers need to a brand name for Nepali carpet, create with around five million sq. metres of around 150,000 jobs to people in bridge the gaps and create a bigger our own labelling, product promotion in covered state-of-art halls. Nepal. Carpet making is a tradition in platform; if possible create a federation potential markets and product diversifica- Nepal evening was a special event in Nepal especially in the Himalayan and of carpet producers in Nepal. tion are the key challenges the industry Domotex. It was an interaction hilly regions. The influx of Tibetan Nepalese carpet community and stake faces. programme between major importers of refugees in Nepal played an instru- holder institutions have to learn to It also faces a number of daunting different nations, Nepali carpet mental role in intensifying the carpet work together. problems like politicisation of labour and community and the government. On 14th trade and thus the export. In order to benefit from this world’s frequent strikes, disability in timely delivery January 2008, top three importers from In Domotex, Nepal’s exhibition was most important carpet platform, Nepali due to unrests, increase in labour wages, Germany and one each from US, UK held on only 20 sq. metres of space. government needs to focus on market devaluation of US dollar and lack of quality and Turkey were awarded ‘Export Two private carpet companies from development programmes and monitoring for the carpet exported. More Award’ by Nepali Ambassador to Nepal along with carpet associations emphasise on stronger governmental assistance from Nepali government is Germany - Dr. Madan Kumar Bhattarai. under the banner of Trade and and private partnership. Trainings for needed and the private carpet community The importers expressed their concerns Export Promotion Centre participated carpet manpower, organising a in Nepal should get engaged more regarding the political situation and in the event. Nepal has been national carpet mart, more organised responsibly for a meaningful Domotex deteriorating economic climate in Nepal, participating in the Domotex for the last participation with bigger exhibiting participation in future. CDO Regd No 93/063/64 Kathmandu, Central Region Postal Regd. No 46/063/64 12 21-27 Jan, 2008 Travel

Every year around 10,000 travelers from Britain go all over the world to raft.

Rafting,Rafting, kayakingkayaking inin NepalNepal

ä Raman Grandon conditions of road and operating more motels and restaurants in and around the destination. Long trips, huge sandy beaches, There is also a good prospect of opening up friendly people and warm more rivers for rafting in Nepal. We can also run whitewater are the unique features cross border trips from Nepal to India particu- of rafting and kayaking in Nepal’s larly from far western region of Nepal. For rivers; which Rob Hind, a Briton has fallen in example, Kali River in Mahendranagar could love with. Rob has been coming to Nepal for provide the longest and smoothest ride possible, kayaking on a regular basis since 1991. He ending at the Indian side.” comes here at least once a year, particularly There is no denying that Nepal has become during autumn season when the rivers are one of the cheapest yet best places for novice swelling and rapids are in full swing. kayakers and rafters from all over the world to In the early days, Rob read a lot about learn and experience rafting skills. For instance, adventures of people in rivers. “Mike Jones, Kayak clinics run by local agencies in Sunkoshi ‘Canoeing down Everest’ and Hillary’s historic raft and Seti Rivers are a class apart. down from Brahmaputra to the Ganges were Rob says, “Back in 1994 there were hardly some of the best accounts of rafting adventure any kayakers in Nepal. Over the years the circulated around. It didn’t take much time to number of Nepali talents has increased. Now realise that I had developed an inner instinct and you can easily see Nepali rafters getting knack for kayaking and rafting,” says he. employed in places like Japan, America and During his first trip Rob stayed two and a half Europe. They are really good.” months rafting in Sunkoshi and Tamba Koshi Every year around 10,000 travelers from wrapping up with a weeklong sightseeing in Britain go all over the world to raft. Although Kathmandu. Even in the midst of Maoist Scotland and Nottingham have famous rafting insurgency when many tourists cancelled their places, Britons regularly go to France in Europe trips to Nepal Rob continued to come back. and other hot spots like Nepal, India, Bhutan, However, he believes, only 40 % of adventurers Pakistan, Tibet, America and Australia. They also took the risk of coming back. travel to Turkey in May, Zimbabwe in September, He recalls, “We stopped doing Karnali come to Nepal in October-November and then completely between 2002 and 2006 as the head over to Chile during Jan-Feb. extortion drive by Maoists in the area increased The biggest threat as of now to all the rivers rapidly. In 2002, a very bitter incident happened across the world is obviously the unplanned when Maoists took away cameras of some of our construction of huge and environmentally guests. Even before that we used to donate large sensitive hydroelectric dams. Rob agrees that sums of money for the rafting trips.” The last time Nepal has not been able to remain far from this he remembers paying donation was in October of reality. “Before, we used to run five day long 2006, a month before the peace agreement. trips in Kali Gandaki from Baglung to Ramdi. But According to Rob, except for very few kayak with the installment of a dam across the upper magazines and local travel agents there is not section, the duration has sadly been reduced to much effort to promote Nepal rafting. He deems three days.” Similar encroachment in it quite necessary for Nepali government to Marshyangdi has also affected the rafting trips. regularly give coverage and publicise rafting A prime tourist attraction and an important activities in Europe and America. “I think Nepali source of revenue in the country, this sport tourism industry should focus on improving the needs to be promoted better. ä