#602 27 April - 3 May 2012 16 pages Rs 30

Corner people NO FLY ZONE alf the 50 families in Olangchungola in the Hremote northeastern corner of have left. The rest are preparing to leave this neglected, his plane junkyard at a corner of airport is harsh land. Offered no relief after last September’s a powerful symbol of the state of Nepal. These vintage earthquake, locals feel they have nothing left to lose. Taircrafts were once the mainstay of the nation’s aviation, and are a mute testimony to political interference Photo Feature by Krishna Sinjali page 12-13 that bled the national dry, and businessmen who bankrupted their and looted shareholders. The nepalitimes.com planes lie scavenged and neglected, just like the country whose faded flag they still fly. For photo galleries of stories in this issue. Story by Dewan Rai page 4

ASHUTOSH TIWARI 2 EDITORIAL 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 MILITARY SECURITY VS SOCIAL SECURITY

ow come the countries that can’t feed their budgets of and Pakistan were in relation to the mass populations have lately started testing long-range deprivation of citizens in both countries. If Pakistani Hballistic missiles? India fired a guided missile last leaders had listened to Ul-haq and done more in the week that can deliver a nuclear payload as far as Beijing, 1990s to ensure education, health and jobs, perhaps the and North Korea’s rocket turned out to be as unguided as country wouldn’t be in the explosive political situation that country’s government. Then Pakistan had to rattle its it is in today. sabre, too. Here in Nepal, the successful conclusion of the peace Pyongyang’s disastrous totalitarianism has made process offers the opportunity to turn our attention to that starving country a case study in how an outdated long-term peace building. An essential part of that must ideology can allow despotic dynasties to survive in the be to harness the peace dividend by cutting back on our 21st century and use nuclear blackmail to get the world to bloated military budget, as well as investing in human feed it. India, on the other hand, may be rising and shining security. but half its children are still undernourished. Pakistan The induction of ex-Maoist combatants and extra should have other priorities than firing expensive rockets Madhesis into the army are political compromises, into the sky. SUBHAS RAI and make a mockery of the glaring need for Security Having nuclear warheads and the rockets to deliver Sector Reform. There is no reason to keep the Armed them, do not a more secure country make. It’s not just Police Force, the paramilitary army that was set up to tyrants who are obsessed with military security, elected fight the insurgency. And if we must have a military, democratic leaders supposedly accountable to the Military security trains people to its size must be slashed to focus on disaster relief, welfare of their citizens do so, too. Part of the reason kill other people, human security infrastructure and UN peacekeeping. could be that ever since the Pharaohs and the Greeks, In the constitution debates, our leaders split hairs the history of empires have been based on the glorious is about saving people’s lives. about presidential and parliamentary systems. But if we battles they fought to expand territory. The modern look around the region, we see democratic governments so history of nation states are annals of military conquests, When it comes to the army, even the most democratic beholden to their militaries that they have no money left history books are long lists of leaders who killed large nations shroud them in inordinate secrecy, they give the for anti-poverty programs, but we also have governments numbers of people to get to power. Histories are rarely brass unquestioned leeway, and a lavish budget. that may not be democratic but have done a much better about ordinary people, they ignore descriptions of the Numerically, South Asia has most of the world’s job in cutting military spending to ensure social welfare. everyday life and the sarifice made by citizens during the poor. If governments in our part of the world were really We can have any kind of government we like, but it must reign of Mr So-and-so the Great. concerned about the welfare of their citizens, they would put human security at the top of the agenda. To this day, security is wholly defined in the pay less attention to military security and pay more for For Nepal’s long-term peace, underlying social framework of national sovereignty and the need to guard social security. Traditionally, security has always been injustice, discrimination, exclusion and inequities sacrosanct frontiers of nation states. Our obsession about training people to kill other people, whereas human must be addressed. Maintaining an outsized, expensive with expanding and defending territory shows we have security is about trying to save people’s lives. army drains resources away from human development. evolved little from mammals who have to regularly One of the early proponents of human security in The threats to Nepal’s survival come not from external irrigate the perimeters of their domains. That is why we South Asia was the late Mahbub Ul-haq who used figures invaders, but from domestic instability caused by the reserve a special place for militaries in our nation states. and statistics to prove just how absurd the military state's neglect of its citizens.

ON THE WEB www.nepalitimes.com

JOURNALISM OF DECEPTION pen, she can bring justice and help price we have to pay for democracy? Current events, possible results and ASS FANS Nepali Times is lucky to have a clean up the mess in the country. She Without a new generation of leadership, geopolitics have been totally ignored. Ass, you are great (‘Crossing the columnist like Rubeena Mahato is a true Nepali hero and has our full we will keep getting the same rubbish. Can we be more realistic, please? t’s and dotting the i’s’, Backside, (‘Journalism of deception’, #601). support. Nirmal Gautam K K Sharma #601). Keep pressuring our failed She has impacted many people’s Anjali Shrestha and corrupt leaders through your lives through her writing and makes The Maoists have been openly PRESIDENTIAL ROADSHOW satire. Who knows, maybe you will the paper better. I hope NT will give GIVE AND TAKE looting the Nepali public, Dahal lied There is too much pessimism and inspire someone honest to take her all the tools she needs so that This is by far the most direct, honest blatantly to the UN, and Baidya and intolerance among Nepalis these charge. she can continue making Nepali and spot-on editorial that I have read gang may still be hiding weapons. If we days (‘Presidential roadshow for Deepak Sharma women proud. in a long time (‘Give and take’, #601). are all aware of these facts, why are we unity’, Kunda Dixit, #601). By directly Caroline K C Thank you Nepali Times for this much still silent? Nepal is ruled by criminals reaching out to the people, the The Ass is popular among needed clarity in a time of hush-hush and we Nepalis seem to love it. President is transcending party lines students in the US, and we read Thank you Rubeena Mahato nation building. As a Nepali I am happy Srijana Shrestha and ethnic ideologies and helping Nepali Times just to see what you for a brutally honest piece. I am that the peace process is progressing reaffi rm unity. Perhaps I am too have to say. Your funny insights sure you will go a long way in so swiftly and that we might actually We can’t only blame politicians for optimistic, but I feel Yadav has played provide joy and sadness at the same your career, if you are not forced have a new ‘constitution’ by 27 May. pushing us into poverty, ethnic strife his presidential role perfectly. time. to compromise your integrity or But on the other hand, all the decisions and authoritarianism. Who chose to Doer Gopal Subedi hounded by the Federation of are being made by the top male support the Maoists, including Dahal Nepalese Journalists. leaders of the three main parties. I and Bhattarai, as heroes of the poor? We need someone to think Although the gender roles are Party Peedit am slightly skeptical of a constitution Who red-carpeted them to power about the whole of Nepal and its reversed, the Ass makes it sound created behind closed doors through and legitimised their violence? Who collective identity and the President like he (?) thinks sexual harassment In a country where ethics plain give and take negotiations. No provided them the opportunity to has articulated this sentiment very is not a big deal and that people amongst journalists is a rarity, public debate? No procedures? How (re)write a ‘New Constitution’ when we well. Although there will be critics and should welcome it, which is precisely Mahato deserves kudos for an far will such a constitution go towards already had a good one from 1990? controversies at every step, Yadav the mindset of men when they wolf- honest and hard-hitting piece. addressing the deep grievances of Who chose to ignore all warning signs should just ignore them and carry on whistle and can’t understand why Salil P Nepalis? while highlighting the false ‘peace’ with his bold moves. women make a big fuss and don’t Nepali Cheli aspect? And who labelled those trying Sudha take it as a compliment. The Ass Let’s hope journalists stop to express the truth as regressive, would get it if he was she-donkey. merely rewording press releases The constitution writing process extremist, rightist royalists? Today these For someone holding the highest Henny and doing more in-depth has not been inclusive of all parties same intellectuals, journalists, editors ceremonial position in the country, I investigations, and asking tough or all people, especially women. and opinion-makers who hoodwinked feel Yadav has disappointed. But we questions of those with power Where were the female leaders during the masses for so long are shocked and shouldn’t expect too much from him. (including themselves). the Hattiban meetings? The unfair surprised at the way things are turning He became the president not because Weekly Internet Poll #602 James domination by Nepali men has to end. out. of his capabilities but rather because Q. The debate on Constitutional Court should pave way for: I think we need a woman to lead the Satya Nepali of the ego war between PK Dahal and Rubeena Mahato, you country post 27 May. GP Koirala. Total votes: 706 encourage other women journalists Bimala Pradhan Your editorial is full of hypocrisy. Rajesh Prajapati to become leaders in the fi eld rather Doesn’t Dahal want to become than just following losers. I am a fan Earlier Gyanendra and his few president through a directly elected President Yadav’s ‘dharma’ and look forward to reading more of cronies used to plunder Nepal. Today system? If we think someone else can sounds like King Gyanendra’s rhetoric your exceptional reports. the NC, UML, Maoists, and Madhesi do a better job then we should vote for of ‘raj dharma’. As the fi rst president Shanta Gurung parties all loot the country every him or her. It’s as simple as that. of republican Nepal, he should ensure day. No law and order, no security, Krishna S that Nepal is not a Titanic where only Rubeena is a very brave growing criminal culture and corrupt those travelling fi rst class survive. Weekly Internet Poll # 602. To vote go to: www.nepalitimes.com columnist. With the power of her government, police, army. Is this the The editorial is a wish-list. Nirmal Q. What kind of executive is best suited for Nepal?

Publisher and Editor: Kunda Dixit Published by Himalmedia Pvt Ltd | Chief Operating Offi cer: Sunim Tamang | Hattiban, Godavari Road, Lalitpur | GPO Box 7251 Kathmandu | Desk Editor: Trishna Rana | Design: Kiran Maharjan [email protected] | www.nepalitimes.com | www.himalmedia.com | Tel: 01-5250333/845 Fax: +977-1-5251013 Marketing: Arjun Karki, Surendra Sharma [email protected] | Advertorial/features: Ram Krishna Banjara | Subscription: Santosh Aryal [email protected] Nepali Times on Facebook Printed at Jagadamba Press | 01-5250017-19 | www.jagadambapr.com Follow @nepalitimes on Twitter 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 OP-ED 3

Dangers of cohabitation BIKRAM RAI GUEST COLUMN Michel Lummaux Former French ambassador to Nepal says the French model may be inappropriate

ow that the peace of more than 100 ethnic groups monarch’. only difference, now that the federal units by ethnicity is process is almost which have succeeded in living The presidential form of monarchy is abolished, lies in very risky for Nepal and has the Ncomplete, the together throughout the long governance has its pros and the election of a ceremonial potential to split the country. A Constituent Assembly is history of independence that cons, but I am not sure it suits president by parliament who few ethnicities may be satisfied about to start carrying out its Nepali people are legitimately Nepal. In France a candidate for embodies the unity of Nepal and but many others, too small to main task of writing the new proud of. It is a model for many the presidency is simply French. Nepalis in all their diversity. get their own province, will constitution. countries torn apart by ethnic- In Nepal, any candidate besides The second point of resent the new administrative Reading the Nepali press separatism, but this model being a Nepali citizen, will also contention is federalism, which divisions as not responding to every day it appears that two is fragile. The national unity belong to a particular ethnic in itself is a positive form of their needs and aspirations. main issues remain to be that served Nepal so well and group and a particular caste. governance. It gives the people The best form of federalism sorted out among the political took so long to build can be The danger then is that electoral the possibility of finding local for Nepal should be based on parties in this difficult exercise destroyed in a moment. competition will oppose not and better adapted solutions economic criteria where regions which will affect the country The parties are trying to only two or more men but also, to the problems they are are regrouped in a way that for several decades to come: decide whether to go for a willingly or unwillingly, two or confronted with. It takes the allows different ethnic groups the form of governance and the presidential system or keep more ethnic groups or castes. administration much closer to to work together to lift their nature of federalism. the parliamentary one. The Victory will then be the the citizens when the central populations out of poverty in Any constitution of any compromise is the so-called victory of one group and government is too often far away cooperation with neighbouring country must be adapted to ‘French model’ in which the defeat for others. If one wants and tends to be oblivious of regions. suit the prevailing conditions. president is directly elected by to protect the unity of Nepal, their daily needs. At the moment when they the people and holds the bulk the parliamentary form of Despite these benefits, Michel Lummaux served sit down to discuss the draft of executive power, appointing governance seems to be a much however, there are difficulties. as ambassador of France to constitution, the members and dismissing the prime better option. This is the system To be effective, federal states Nepal between 1996 and 2000. of the Constituent Assembly minister at will and dissolving which was in force during or provinces have to recruit The views in this article are should keep in mind that parliament if he wants. This is the period of constitutional good and skilled staff capable personal and do not necessarily Nepal is the oldest nation why the president in France is monarchy from 1991 and it of running the day-to-day reflect the French government's state in South Asia made up often referred to as a ‘republican worked reasonably well. The administration. Also, defining position. 4 BUSINESS 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602

as well as the popular Mt Everest sightseeing flights for more than 25 years. Victor is stored at the hangar, but Uniform is here rotting away slowly in the sun with other planes from the private airlines that flew high briefly after privatisation in 1990 and then went belly-up. The planes of Royal Nepal Airlines, , Nepal Airways, and are a mute testimony to the political interference WhereWhere oldold that bled the national airline dry, and the unscrupulous tycoons who looted shareholder investment. planes go to die The Civil Aviation Authority of planes go to die Nepal (CAAN) seems to be aware that the plane junkyard is unsightly and is PICS: ASHUTOSH TIWARI offering them up for auction to scrap The carcasses of planes are a mute dealers. Some of the private airlines still owe CAAN millions in unpaid fees, but testimony to political interference and they may have to be written off. Only private greed that bled Nepal’s airlines dry has agreed to remove its SAAB 42. DEWAN RAI “The airline companies are supposed to pay accumulated parking fees,” says Shyam Sundar Bhakta Shrestha deputy ld planes lie scattered, managing director of the airport, “but scavenged, cannibalised, picked since the planes are junked there is no Oclean for spare parts of airliners chance of getting operators to pay up.” that were once a part of Nepal’s aviation CAAN has received bids for only two history. of the Nepal Airways Y-12s and no one Of the 10 abandoned planes in this seems to want the Dorniers, Fokker aviation junkyard is the veteran of the 100 and other planes even to sell to Nepal skies: “Alpha Uniform” one of aluminium scrap merchants. Nepal the very first Hawker Siddeley 748 Airlines wants to hand over the other manufactured in 1969 and acquired by Avro to the proposed Civil Aviation Royal Nepal Airlines. Academy. It’s a story of how far we have The reason scrap dealers are not regressed in Nepal that the then head interested is because whatever they bid of Royal Nepal Airlines is said to have for, the airline will first have to clear its got the manufacturer in 1970 to cut the dues to CAAN. Cosmic Air alone owes price by 15 per cent by getting Hawker the airport Rs 20 million. Shrestha says Siddeley to agree to minus the sales the planes will be removed if there are commission. Alpha Uniform with no bids and the space leased to private its sister ship, “Alpha Victor” served airlines which need hangar space. RNAC well, flying international routes to Delhi and domestic destinations More pictures: www.nepalitimes.com 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 BUSINESS 5 Educated, but unskilled New Nepal needs to have a consciously skill-centric focus on creating and sustaining jobs

after all, pay more to acquire skills, and not so much to acquire education. This is why, in New Nepal, we need to have consciously skill-centric focus on creating and sustaining jobs for most people. These skills could be about plumbing, carpentry, bakery, and the like on one STRICTLY BUSINESS hand, and about being medical, dental and hydropower Ashutosh Tiwari technicians on the other. For this, the government needs to look for ways to raise or the last five years, as the importance of institutions a part of my work in two such as CTEVT by offering Fdifferent organisations, more funds, by facilitating their I’ve been on panels that select linkages with reputed foreign and hire new employees. At counterparts, and by making it both places, I’ve been struck by easier for any interested party how much discussion there is to start and run accredited about a candidate’s education technical and vocational and experience or lack thereof, institutes in places in Nepal and how little about the BIKRAM RAI where there is demand. It is candidate’s skills, as in what the Nepalis with skills to sell to the person can actually do. when there were fewer educated global economy, the overlap skills (increasingly complex market who will help make their In the national conversation Nepalis who had their choice of between the two circles – one abilities with which one can families, their communities and about creating jobs, there is a jobs. of educational attainment and complete a task in demand) their country prosperous. stronger emphasis on setting To be sure, times have the other of skill-sets that the which actually lead to and up more BBA and BBS colleges changed and have become evolving job market values – has generate high-paying jobs inside Past Strictly Business columns and more universities which more complex. But it is in this gotten smaller and smaller, and and outside Nepal. Businesses, www.nepalitimes.com award degrees in specialised- complexity that the old equation is likely to further diminish in sounding, if of dubious value, is less true today. There are now the coming years. subjects. Indeed, in the last one millions of educated Nepalis This is not the narrative BIZ BRIEFS year alone, people in eastern with skills that are similar to we hear during talks about and far western Nepal have what thousands, if not millions, creating jobs through foreign actually rioted to pressurise of other people have. These investments, as though investors Home sweet home the government to establish skills are neither unique nor would easily find idly-sitting On the occasion of New Year 2069, Bank of Asia is introducing its Easy universities in their areas. advanced, nor particularly skilled manpower when they Home scheme. This scheme provides customers with 100 percent loans to All this is not surprising. A valuable for employers, inside come here to set up businesses. purchase lands, buildings, apartments and for construction or renovation purposes at an interest rate of 11.99 per cent. bias that is firmly entrenched and outside of Nepal, to start Formal education is important, in our minds from the era of the hiring applicants by offering and with 70 per cent literacy failed New Education Reform high wages. rate (according to Nepal Living Accolades abound Plan of 1971 is that we continue Indeed, thanks in part to Standards Survey 2011), we Qatar Airways has been honoured with two major accolades at the annual to equate, both socially and the internet which offers free should continue to raise the Skytrax 2012 World Airport Awards held in Vienna.For the second year in culturally, the act of acquiring courses on just about any importance of schooling. a row, Qatar Airways’ Premium Terminal at Doha International Airport (DIA) an education in a formal setting skill one wants to be good But educating people and was named the World’s Best Premium Service Airport and Qatar Airways- with the act of acquiring skills at, and in part to the stories attracting investments alone owned Oryx Rotana, a fi ve-star hotel at Doha International Airport won the that the modern workplace of drop-outs who have done will not help create jobs when Best Airport Hotel in the Middle East award and was ranked 10th best airport demands. This equation was well for themselves in today’s the neglected discussion is still hotel in the world. certainly true 20 or 40 years ago, skill-driven national and about raising our collective 6 LIFE TIMES 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 A problem with Bullied children in Nepal are trapped between their tormenters and an insensitive school system

TRISHNA RANA which is dedicated exclusively larger and stronger than rest of to minimising the effects of their classmates when they are bullying. six or seven years old are most percent of the Children are also reluctant to likely to become bullies in their population still can’t admit to bullying to teachers or teenage years, they start with 30 read or write, so parents because they are scared innocent acts like pinching making children attend school is of the consequences or have no their friends and then move the biggest priority for parents, faith that it would make things on to more violent and hurtful teachers and the government in better. This secrecy surrounding activities.” Nepal. Then there are problems bullying makes it very hard to Among girls there is a like high dropout rate, an determine the frequency, assess greater tendency to isolate increasing gap between private the severity and push for timely and exclude the victim by not and public schools, a lack of intervention. talking or playing with her. classroom resources, shortage The responsibility then Boys, on the other hand, are of trained teachers, and sexual falls on the teachers and more likely to hit or push the harassment. parents to pick up on signs victim while in the football School bullying comes way that their children might be grounds or toilets. Name down in the list of problems, being bullied, or are bullying calling (“fat”, “ugly”, “dark”, although all indications are that others. Psychologists and child “stupid”), ragging victims to there is an epidemic of abuse development experts agree that complete assignments, stealing of school children by fellow children who are bullied are possessions, or forcefully students. Most schools don’t even usually physically fragile, weak pairing them with someone acknowledge the problem exists. in academics, shy, don’t speak of the opposite sex are also “When we approach schools up in class, have lower self common bully behaviours. and request them to introduce esteem or a combination of these Ganga Pathak, chief anti-bullying policies, the factors. psychologist at the National principals and teachers become Hima Pradhan, a student Institute of Psychology in very defensive and tell us it does counsellor at a school in Baneshwor, says that despite not happen in their schools, they Kathmandu, says potential warning signs, detecting that are afraid that if they admit to bullies can also be identified a child is being bullied is still bullying, their reputation will and begin to display signs tricky. She explains, “We find be damaged,” says Niti Rana, starting from first grade. She that many teenagers who come chairperson of Rakshya Nepal explains, “Children who are for counselling because of their BIKRAM RAI Friends of conservation

BHRIKUTI RAI Nepali students are offered free entrance to the Community (SEEC), which brings together groups Zoo, discounts at various stores in Kathmandu involved in conservation education in Nepal. and can participate in taking care of the animals “We started SEEC to form a common platform Green in the and feeding them. FOZ also conducts regular to share knowledge and expertise and also to hen the Friends of Zoo started a program training for solid waste management, bird stay connected with the larger conservation inside to encourage school children to visit spotting, summer and winter camps, and night community,” explains Amita Sen, a UKTNCN mita Sen, a dyslexia specialist, who is WJawalakhel Zoo 15 years ago, it met with tours of the zoo. trustee (see box). Athe only Nepali trustee of the UK chapter a lot of skepticism. “We want to connect the lessons students The British involvement with the Jawalakhel of the Nature Trust Conservation in Nepal Nepal’s only zoo at that time didn’t have much learn in their environment science classes with Zoo is a unique global partnership. In 2003 (NTNC), has been working for the past two to show for itself. The cages were small and smelly, wildlife conservation and turn them into young three British schools (Whitefi eld, King Alfred and decades promoting conservation education. the animals looked sick, and it was an example of animal enthusiasts,” says Rachana Shah, Hendon) participated in a two-year joint project to An environment enthusiast since her teens, how not to run a zoo. Today, Friends of Zoo (FOZ) conservation education offi cer at the Zoo. promote the three Rs (reduce, reuse, recyle) at Sen also helped develop the syllabus for is a showcase for conservation awareness in the The Zoo is currently collaborating with the Kathmandu’s Shuvatara, St Xavier’s and Neptune environment education in Nepal. country, helping promote a wildlife friendly culture National Trust for Nature Conservation, the schools. The six schools were awarded the global She says that Nepal’s environment among 300 member schools in the Valley and UK chapter of Trust for Nature Conservation in curriculum award by DFID and the British Council, education has come a long way since the surrounding districts. Nepal (UKTNCN), and the recently launched which funded the project. early 1990s when she started out and For an annual membership fee of Rs 200, Sustainable Education for Environment and Students from the British schools visited is happy to see young Nepali students Nepal and along with their Nepali counterparts, stepping up and taking responsibility for made an pledge as a part of the sustainable conservation. She adds: “Natural resources The central zoo at Jawalakhel is not just home to animals environment project, which was sealed in a and environment are Nepal’s biggest wealth but also a leading centre for conservation education time capsule in 2005. The capsule consisted of and it is encouraging to see growing number students' commitments as well as messages of youngsters working hard to conserve these urging future leaders to work towards a cleaner precious resources.” environment The capsule was opened amidst a ceremony at St Xavier’s School in Jawalakhel three weeks ago. Students were excited to see how many of them had fulfi lled their promises from seven years ago. One of the pledges which was read aloud at the event said: “I will walk to school as much as possible to save fuel and do my part in becoming a responsible eco-friendly citizen.” “Students from both countries benefi ted immensely from the partnership and we hope this initiative will encourage more young people to play active roles in conserving their environment and wildlife,” says Tom Mann of Hendon School. The central zoo is planning to set up a Centre for Environment Education (CFEE) to promote conservation education in Nepal and extend its reach beyond the capital.

nepalitimes.com It’s a zoo out there, #111 It’s still a zoo out there, #134 WALLACE WOON 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 LIFE TIMES 7 A least bit different no name or 20 years, I thought I was the problem. I and have made a name for myself. In the end, my Fblamed myself for the name calling, the life has turned out to be positive. physical abuse, for being friendless. But today I wanted to show the documentary Bully aggressive, violent behaviours limited resources on something after all these years, I can talk openly and to children and teachers in Nepal because or because of depression are they don’t consider a serious honestly about bullying. I went to St Xavier’s, the experience of being bullied cuts across actually victims of bullying and enough issue. But even easy an all boys school where classmates taunted me geography, race and class. The pain and their anger and depression is and inexpensive measures like for being different. But I believe people who bully hurt is the same. And although I am not an usually have problems within their family or have expert, I want to tell parents with children including an anti-bullying policy only an external expression of been bullied at some point in their lives. It’s a who have been bullied to keep their frustration. Many younger in the student handbook, adding vicious circle. communication channels open children don’t even display a section on school bullying I consider myself lucky. I came from a and tackle the issue as early as these outward emotions, so it’s in teacher training manuals, privileged family background and had a possible. hard for parents and teachers to starting an anti-bullying week very strong support system. Usually boys Prabal Gurung know what’s wrong.” campaign to raise awareness tend not to share their emotions with While intervention by will go a long way in improving their parents, but I was extremely close Prabal Gurung is a parents and teachers helps in students’ well being.” with my parents and siblings and they Nepali American fashion the short term, empowering the Pathak goes a step further stood by me throughout those rough designer based in New children is a better way to deal and recommends mandatory years. York. On a visit to with bullying. Smriti Ghimire at orientation programs for new In hindsight, I can say that my Nepal a month ago experience with bullying has gotten he organised the students in every school where Ankur Counselling Centre says, me to the position where I am today. screening of the new “We try to build assertiveness they are taught what bullying is, Since I was already ‘different’ I was free documentary, Bully, at among children who are bullied its consequences and who to go to experiment with new and unusual fi elds. Rato Bangala School. and teach them how to protect for help. And adds, “Typically I chose a profession like fashion designing themselves. We also conduct hostels have a post called workshops which help boost ‘discipline in charge’ who is their self-esteem. These skills are usually someone who students far more beneficial for children are scared of and avoid. Schools in the long run.” should get rid of this position Tormented teens Bullying is often dismissed and hire trained counsellors as part of growing up, and the instead. Even parents need to irected by Lee Hirsch, Bully depicts the epidemic of school bullying across the US focus is completely on students play an active role and should Dthrough the lives of 13-year-old boy from Iowa who is called 'fi sh face' and physically harassed by his peers on the bus; a lesbian in Oklahoma who fi nds acceptance hard to come getting good grades or being the talk to their children about by in her small town; and an honour student in Mississippi, who is sent to juvenile prison bullying at the beginning of the best athletes. Both Pathak and for pointing a gun at her tormentors. The documentary also follows the grieving families of Ghimire say attitudes of urban school year.” Tyler Long and Ty Smalley, victims of bullying who killed themselves. As the families try to parents and schools are slowly The Department of Education raise awareness and make school administrators more responsive and accountable, they changing and they are paying has no policies on school are met with a lot of resistance and the children are left to navigate their way through the more attention to children’s bullying and is completely incredibly hostile world of bullies all on their own. social-emotional well being. silent about the issue. Rana’s Rana who is the first Nepali suggestion: “The government The fi lm released in US theatres on 30 March. to research bullying points to the could start by finding a Nepali www.thebullyproject.com term for the word bullying. At apathy shown by schools as the nepalitimes.com biggest hurdle: “Schools don’t the moment we don’t even know want to spend their already what to call it in Nepali.” Watch trailer

COVER STORY Road to nowhere: The consƟ tuƟ on, even if draŌ ed may not lead the naƟ on out of transiƟ on

EDITORIAL Thorny issues

COMMENTARY Federalism Feud Bihari Krishna Shrestha Beyond integraƟ on Jainendra Jivan Spacious Madhes Chandrakishor Jha

REPORTS Exclusive inclusion Estranged in a foreign land On fast-track HIMALKHABARPATRIKA Silent success April 28 - May 13 2012 INTERVIEW Dev Gurung Central commiƩ ee member, UCPN-M 8 LIFE TIMES 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602

Foundation. 7 April to 2 May, Nepal EVENTS Academy, Kamaladi. Free entry DINING

Dutch Queen’s Day, be a part of a special fl ea market where you can buy or sell used products. Rs 600 (for stall), starts from 30 April, 12.30 pm to 5pm, Summit Hotel, Kupondole

PICNIC, enjoy this Korean restaurant which offers affordable prices and ALCHEMY, an authentic Italian heaping portions. Thamel BRONCO BILLY, a new restaurant restaurant which serves dishes like in town offering Tex-Mex and Indian Pizza Quatro Stagioni and Spaghetti dishes. They make their own corn alla Puttanseca. Thamel tortillas, which get a big thumbs- up. Pulchowk, opposite Namaste MOUNTAINS AND FLOWERS OF THE Supermarket SACRED KHUMBU VALLEY, water colour paintings by Bhikshuni Jamsung LEARN PHOTOGRAPHY, learn the Wangmoo depicting the serene beauty basics of photography in this 12 day of Khumbu. 27 April to May 6, Park long session. Rs 2999, 17 April to Gallery, Pulchowk. 10:30 am to 28 April, 7am to 9.30am, 4244348, 6 pm. Call 5522307 9841240341 FUJI BAKERY, tucked in Chakupat this bakery offers homemade goodies like apple pie, pain du chocolat and MUSIC banana cake. Chakupat

DRAGON CAFÉ, enjoy momos, sizzlers and vegetable coins at the most CHONGQING FAST FOOD, gear up for reasonable prices. Kumaripati some mouth watering Chinese dishes like Sour and Spicy Pork and Kung Pao Chicken. Thamel

NEPFEST: BEGINNING OF THE END, this promotional gig of Decapitated EKPHRASIS, an art performance features an array of bands like showcasing poetry, music, acts and Amokkshan, Bidroha, Imperium and fashion which will be followed by an art Scarlet Void. Rs 100, 28 April, 2pm THE OLIVE GARDEN, now offering exhibition by Milan Rai. 5 May, 7pm, onwards, Neon Pub, Thamel a revamped dinner menu with various Trisara, Lazimpat trout dishes. Radisson Hotel, Lazimpat SIGN, Live music by SIGN band India-Nepal Crafts Festival, organised every week except Tuesdays and SAL’S PIZZA, almost round, almost Irish Pub, for the simple reason that by Embassy of India in association Wednesdays. 7:30 pm onwards, Corner cheap, always delicious, try out the the place actually feels like a bar. Don’t ALFRESCO, for homemade pastas and with Government of Goa, B.P.Koirala Bar, Radisson Hotel, Lazimpat. Call cheesiest pizzas in town. Lazimpat, miss out on their Irish coffee. Lazimpat, other lip-smacking delights. Soaltee India-Nepal Foundation and South Asia 4411818 behind Jazz Upstairs Ananda Bhawan, 4416027 Crowne Plaza, 4273999 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 LIFE TIMES 9

Yellow Chili, enjoy renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s dishes as this GETAWAYS restaurant serves mouthwatering Indian delicacies. Thapathali

Japanese Crêpe Station, try the unique Nepali khuwa crêpe for a quick fi x. Khichapokhari and Basantapur, call 4256655

CINNAMON GRILL AND LOUNGE, THE BORDERLANDS ECO mouth watering delicacies with live ADVENTURE RESORTS, raft in music. Try the grilled tenderloin steak the mighty Bhote Kosi, try a canyon and quiche lorraine with fresh fruit descent, or an off-the-beaten trek to a salad. Jhamsikhel, 5521339 hidden monastery. Call 4700894 NEW TUSHITA RESTAURANT, relaxing ambience and good food. Don’t miss out on their Penne with creamy bacon and mushroom sauce. Lazimpat, 44432957 Walk for respect alk for Respect, the Nepali version of ‘slut walk’, Wis scheduled to take place this Saturday. The walk HOLIDAY AT GRAND NORLING is part of UNDP’s global initiative to encourage men and HOTEL, enjoy a quiet weekend at women to stand up against sexual harassment and the first Gokarna .One night and two days at Rs MANNY’S EATERY AND BAR, special 4500 and two nights and three days at event took place in Toronto on 3 April 2011. The rally also lunch packages for a quick snack or Rs 7000, call 447948, Gokarna aims to make victims more open about the trauma and shed fi lling lunch. Jawlakhel, Shaligram their discomfort regarding issues of molestation. Complex, 5536919 Fulbari Resort, enjoy the scenic view of as you pamper yourself with The walk will begin at 1pm from Nepal Airlines Pasto Vostro, a pretty place with some ROX RESTAURANT, Enjoy Sunday tennis, golf, drinks and dinners. Rs 6500 Corporation building (next to New Road Gate) and end at great pasta. Their bacon wrapped Pranzo at Rox Restaurant from 12am per person for 2 nights and 3 days, Call Kathmandu Durbar Square. sausages are a must. Thamel to 3.30 pm. Hyatt Regency, 4491234 4461918, 4462248 Call 9841375107 or SMS YUWA SW to 4001.

expecting vegetables skewered and grilled, served over a bed of rice, but what we got instead was a mix of boiled vegetables dunked in thick white sauce. The chicken in the basket was crisply fried, but drowned in a thick congealed mass trying to pass itself off as a brown sauce, accompanied by unpalatable French fries and plain boiled noodles. I judge a restaurant by its quality of fries and it’s shocking how many get it all wrong. A classic plate of French fries is crisp on the SOMEPLACE ELSE outside but after biting into the potato, yields a rich smooth softness- a clash of textures that makes this a perennial favourite. At Nirvana, we got served thick chunks of potatoes dripping in oil with no hint of crispiness anywhere. The saving grace of our meal arrived RUBEENA D SHRESTHA in DHARAN with the Nepali Thali set. A heap of rice, thick dal, mixed vegetables with grated Nirvana Golf Club paneer, tomato chutney and chicken in haran doesn’t boast of many fine creamy gravy finally had us satisfied. dining options. But as a first time to the basics: serving good, wholesome, very polite and helpful, the service Nirvana wants to please everyone Dvisitor to the city, friends told me tasty meals. was painfully slow. The ice we asked and in its eagerness to make all patrons to include ‘lunch at Nirvana Golf Club’ The lassis were warm and not well for came after we had almost finished happy, it instead does just the opposite. on my to-do list. Located inside the vast blended. Chunks of yogurt in the mouth drinking our warm glasses of what can be The restaurant should downsize its menu, compound of BP Memorial Hospital, do not make for a pleasurable drinking best described as mush. emphasise on what its chefs cook well Nirvana Country Club Health and Golf experience. Although the staff was Having decided to skip starters, we and then bask in the collective sighs of Resort is lush and beautiful - a cool oasis ordered the ‘Nirvana Special Sandwich’, appreciation from satisfied and satiated from Dharan’s heat. The food, however is vegetable shaslicks and chicken basket. customers. another matter altogether. Our waiter encouraged us to try the The menu is extensive and has Nepali Thali set which at Rs 525 a plate, Enter BP everything from Indian to Chinese to seemed expensive for what was described Hospital grounds the ubiquitous continental dishes that as a regular plate of dal-bhat-tarkari. and follow the every restaurant worth its salt insists on The bread was crumbly and plain road past the including. It also had sandwiches, soups, and the meagre fillings of dry chicken hospital and and salads. The overly ambitious menu is bits and wilted lettuce ensured that there the disused probably why the food suffers. Instead of was nothing special about the ‘special’ swimming pool trying to impress us with a multitude of sandwich. And the vegetable shaslicks, to the resort dishes, the restaurant should have jstuck well those were an eye opener. We were gates. PICS: RUBEENA D SHRESTHA 10 HAPPENINGS 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602

WEEKEND WEATHER played by Naomi Watts, fi nds a diary on the body of a young unidentifi ed woman who dies while giving birth to a baby girl. Khitrova is of Russian origin and as she looks through Despite the start of the chariot the diary she realises it is written in Russian. She takes the festival in Patan of the rain god, it looks like the high pressure system KATHMANDU diary to her slightly troublesome, grumpy, old-fashioned over northern India is going to hold uncle Stepan (Jerzy Skolimowski), who after glancing for a while longer. After all, we have through it, refuses to translate it, urging caution. had all the average rainfall for April Anna, however, who has become increasingly attached falling already in the fi rst week. to the baby girl, starts to look for the “Trans-Siberian” - a However, the higher mountain valleys will see afternoon buildup and brief, restaurant, whose card she fi nds in the dead girl, Tatiana’s, violent storms over the weekend. diary. She turns up at the restaurant and encounters the Other areas of the midhills will have FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY patriarch/owner Semyon (Armin Mueller-Stahl) - a soothing windy afternoons with chances of fi gure who fusses around her, asks her dead father’s name, isolated convection showers. The makes her taste his famous borscht and agrees to translate minimum temperature is climbing, and will now be 15-16 degrees the diary. Anna leaves the photocopied pages of the diary. celsius. Maximum will stay above 30 While she is at the restaurant she encounters the vicious for the most part of afternoons. 31-16 29-15 29-15 Kirill (Vincent Cassel), Semyon’s petulant son and his enigmatic driver Nikolai Luhzin (Viggo Mortensen) for the fi rst time. When Anna returns home, Stepan has grudgingly translated a small part of Tatiana’s diary. It is clear that Tatiana was a young girl traffi cked from Russia and held forcibly in a Russian mob-run brothel run by the infamous Eastern “Vory” wing of the mob. Even more distressingly, it seems that Tatiana had been raped by Kirrill, Semyon’s son. As Anna investigates further she is both warned and abetted by the inscrutable Nikolai whose intentions are still Promises unclear. As we start to puzzle out the various twists in the intriguing plot, we are treated to a number of unforgettable scenes, one of which involves Mr Mortensen’s character, Nikolai, fi ghting off a pair of hired assassins, with deadly MUST SEE curved knives, while stark naked in a Turkish bath. Each character is lovingly fl eshed out, Anna’s Sophia Pande investigative drive is not annoying, as some main characters tend to be when excessively driven; Kirill turns out to be more of an abused son than an arch villian, and of course, self-admitted David Cronenberg fan from one of my there is the endlessly wonderful Viggo Mortensen who is BIKRAM RAI previous articles, I have fallen back today on yet able to make even a taciturn mob-driver into an arresting READY, GET SET, GO: Motorcyclists are fi nally allowed to fi ll up their tanks, after A another superlative Cronenberg fi lm upon fi nding character whose every move is fascinating to watch. waiting in que for several hours infront of the Army gas station at Bhadrakali. that all DVD copies of Werner Herzog’s seemingly In the end, Eastern Promises rises above its other promising documentary Into The Abyss (released in late genre-typical counterparts because of its unfl inching look 2011) stop 10 minutes short of the end. into the heart of darkness. There is a world of evil out there Eastern Promises, Cronenberg’s 2007 masterpiece and watching Eastern Promises, entertaining though it is a fi lm that is so rich in its atmosphere, details, and may be, does leave a chill in the heart, the last scene in characters that it can and ought to be revisited every particular. year, or every few anyway, by any one who might love the classic gangster story reinvented by a master fi lm- All DVDs reviewed in this column are available in the maker, or really anyone who just loves a ripping good writer’s favourite DVD store: Music and Expression, yarn. Thamel, Phone # 014700092 Cronenberg has evolved from his days of psychological horror into a fi lm-maker who is now a subtle master of weaving the terrifying into the seemingly nepalitimes.com mundane. In Eastern Promises, which is set perfectly in a foggy grey toned London, Anna Khitrova a mid-wife, Watch trailer

BIKRAM RAI DIVINE GAZE: The Living Goddess Kumari looks on during the Rato Machindranath Nath Jatra in Patan which started on Wednesday. The chariot The erratic pulse festival is celebrated in honour of the rain god. But taking the pulse and wife was actually pining for making an important diagnosis her lover and that nothing else DHANVANTARI is very common not only in was wrong with her. This is Buddha Basnyat, MD Ayurvedic but also in Greek, akin to the scene in countless Tibetan, Chinese, and Islamic Hindi movies where the doctor medicine. In these traditional after studiously taking the medicines, problems in the pulse of a beautiful, unmarried y carefully taking the intestines, liver, gall bladder, woman and performing no pulse, ghata (riverside) kidneys, lungs and brain are other examination announces Bvaidyas (physicians) in gravely to the parents, “Apki Nepal determine the time when beti ma banne wali hai” (your a seriously ill patient may die. daughter is pregnant). With the advent of modern In modern medicine, medicine there are fewer vaidyas doctors use the pulse to now. But in past, many relied determine the seriousness of on them to predict the hour an illness as just one of the BIKRAM RAI of death of their loved ones so important means of assessing WE THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE: Women from the Tamang community gather at that religious rituals along the the patient. Light reflexes in Khulamanch on Wednesday for an event celebrating indigenous people. riverside could be auspiciously the eyes, response to any kind carried out. of stimuli (especially pain), There are many stories breathing, blood pressure of these riverside physicians are some other determinants making arbitrary, life and besides pulse which are death calls at the Aryaghat in included in the assessment. Pashupatinath. After taking But figuring out the exact time the pulse of a dying man, if the of death is still scientifically ghata vaidyas determine that very important. For example death is imminent, the patient harvesting the organs for is put on a tilted slab of stone donation from people who (bhramanal) next to the water. have given consent needs to be Relatives then put a handful of determined through careful done immediately after death the holy (albeit contaminated) assessment of the radial pulse. to optimise the chances for Aryaghat water into the mouth of Even psychological health the organ to work in another the dying to facilitate salvation. is determined by the pulse. patient. Perhaps with some Unfortunately sometimes people Avicenna, the famous Islamic fine tuning, the roles of ghata WELL DONE: Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum hands over the 2012 who are not quite dead yet, physician of the tenth century vaidyas could be expanded for UNESCO Prize for Outstanding Practice and Performance in Enhancing the choke and aspirate water into used the pulse as a lie detector organ harvesting when Nepal Effectiveness of Teachers to Shanta Dixit, president of the Rato Bangala their lungs. to figure out that a sultan’s sick is ready for this. Foundation. The event was held in UAE on Tuesday.

27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 OPINION 11

If they are sincere about a consensus, one side will have to take a step back. An executive, be it a president or a prime BY THE WAY minister must be directly elected to Anurag Acharya ensure accountability. The other office could be a parliament-elected nominal head. In case the parties agree on a directly-elected prime minister, the president can be he ongoing constitutional debate given certain emergency powers clearly has yielded positive results and the stating the circumstances under which Tparties have further threshed out they can be exercised. Or if they agree their differences. After having resolved on a directly-elected president, a prime the issues of constitutional court and minister elected by the parliament can citizenship, the leaders have left the be given a stronger legislative role as a hardest part for last. leader of the house. To limit the power On one side of the negotiations are the of future presidents, their tenure in Maoists and Madhesi parties who want office can be limited to a maximum of a clear departure from the parliamentary two terms. Also, a strong impeachment system, which they say has bred political mechanism can be put in place as further instability and corruption in the past. safeguard. The NC and UML are convinced that The other knot to untie is over parliamentary system with all its flaws federalism. The leaders of indigenous is still better than gambling with an groups including those in the CA have untested system that may breed a taken to the streets demanding ethnic dictator. federalism. From the early days of So, as the deadline for the statute statute drafting, it was clear that state drafting draws closer, the parties are restructuring would be the most difficult nervous about backtracking from problem to resolve. Federalism based positions that may give the opposition an on devolution and identity has been at upper hand in the debate. But they also the core of political movements in this know the other side is not going to relent country over the years. either, and both sides know the perils of All this is being decided hush-hush a void. It is against this backdrop that a Mixing things up behind closed doors with the clock new consensus is being forged. ticking. If the parties ignore Madhesi, NC negotiators realise that the Maoists In an effort to seek a ‘win-win’ Dalit and Janajati groups during the final will not give up their demand for a negotiations on federalism, there will be directly-elected executive president, and arrangement, let’s not settle for something street protests instead of celebrations on have agreed to it in return for a prime 28 May. The Madhesi front has already minister with executive powers elected that will make us all losers shown willingness to openly discuss by the parliament. In a departure from the alternative proposals based on identity French model, this is the Finnish model. executive whose entire tenure would avoid power deadlocks resulting from and sustainability. The leaders must now But whatever model we chose, it will then be spent under the burden of its overlapping arrangements. No matter engage indigenous pressure groups as only be as good (or as bad) as the players. grace. The loyalty of such an executive how powerful, a parliament-elected well. Given our immature political milieu and lies with selective power brokers inside executive will have little moral ground to Until now the parties have been protracted lawless transition, any dual and outside the parliament, and not exercise authority over a directly-elected involved in a competition for brownie power centre is going to lead to a power with the people. While it is essential to president. points. Engaging with one of their own struggle between future executives. ensure that the executive is an upright In an effort to seek a ‘win-win’ and coming to terms with the demands This is not to say we go back to the individual free from any personal arrangement, the parties must not settle of others will test their true negotiation old ways of letting parliament elect an obligations, it is equally important to for something that will make us all losers. skills.

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The corner people of Olangchungola A village in the remote mountains of north-eastern Nepal makes a distress call

TEXT and PICS by KRISHNA SINJALI in SANKHUWASABHA

village near the north- citizenship, they still retain a off an entire day. The road eastern tip of Nepal Tibetan way of life, speak their from Fungling to Tapethok and Awas once on the busy own language and have kin on further up is under construction. and historical trade route with the other side in China. Other than the road and Tibet. Located at 3,100 m on the It takes a day’s bus ride from abandoned VDC buildings and Tamur River, Olangchungola Birtamod to Taplejung's district a primary school, there is little is named after the local headquarter, and then a three- here to suggest presence of the inhabitants, the Walungs who day trek to reach Olangchungola Nepali state. The once vibrant were refugees from Tibet. but the newly built airport 10 trading route is deserted. A nine Although most now have Nepali km east of Fungling will shave member border police force is 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 NATION 13

CLOCKWISE (FROM ABOVE): 1Jogem bridge, green hills surrounding Olangchungola, 2 an eldery man with photos of his children in the background, reminisces about family members who have moved out of the village, 3 trekking route to Gola, 4 rhododendrons blooming in the high himalayas, 5 map of Taplejung, 6 Gola villager with her Tibetan goat, 7 rocky road leading to Gola. posted here, two days walk Nepal. But last September’s from the Reiyu post on the earthquake damaged the Tibet border which is often Tamur trail, and Tibet is closed. not accessible. Repairs The primary school, which are nowhere in sight. The has 22 students opens for Kangchenjunga Conservation only four months because it is Area Project volunteer Tashi too cold for the teachers rest Sherpa says the route to of the time. The locals have Olangchungola is so bad it is repeatedly asked the local swept away every monsoon. administration to stock the Neglected by the state health post with medicine and and left with no choice, the a doctor all year round. But 25 families still remaining nothing has materialised. in Olangchungola are also The 250 population of considering leaving the area for Olangchungola is scattered good. A local health assistant across seven VDCs and is Pasang Kipa Sherpa told us made up mostly of farmers and they have requested the district traders. Half the population administration to relocate the has left. Tibet is closer than village to a safer place. She the nearest market town in adds: “The area is too harsh for Nepal, and Chinese goods are survival and there is no help cheaper than commodities in from anywhere.” 14 FROM THE NEPALI PRESS 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 Hands-out scholarships Dubious donor policy Ram Bahadur Rawal, Nepal, 29 April Naya Patrika, 22 April for open competition while most are given to favoured candidates. Chairperson of Foreign Affairs In the past, donor countries would provide assistance to Foreign embassies in Nepal are and Human Rights Committee, Nepal through INGOs. However, lately they have started flouting diplomatic norms by Padmalal Bishwakarma says that opening ‘puppet’ companies and organisations to mobilise distributing scholarships without embassies have ignored their their resources. Such practices violate international norms, the permission of Ministry of directive to distribute education Nepal’s foreign aid policy and the commitments expressed by Education (MoE) and Ministry assistance only through MoE. More donors. of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). The than 50 seats for MBBS which Although donors deny these allegations, organisations Indian embassy distributes more come from China, India, Pakistan such as Rupantaran started by DFID prove that benefactors than 2000 scholarships every and are distributed are now micromanaging Nepal’s development sector. The year. Pakistan has an annual as ‘cultural quotas’ without donors have been criticised in the past for ignoring local quota reserved for 15 Nepali free competition. Government participation and bringing in projects without assessing students pursuing MBBS. These officials admit that politicians ground realities. scholarships which should have frequently visit embassies to secure Finance secretary, Krishna Hari Baskota says the donors been distributed through MoE scholarships for their children. put forth unnecessary terms and conditions and if the are doled out like kickbacks And this is the main reason why government questions them, they work clandestinely through from embassies, often to children no one is keen on regulating NGOs affiliated with Social Welfare Council. The donors and relatives of high-ranking the embassies and making these have also been insisting on bringing their own consultants government officials and political scholarships more accessible. citing the lack of expertise in Nepal, but Baskota says, “They leaders. Very few seats are left must not doubt our capabilities and should use official channels when offering assistance.” War school Green revolution Post, 22 April Prem Narayan Acharya, Annapurna Artha, 23 April Shahid Smriti Boarding School in Manpur of Dang district is providing opportunities to children of parents who were killed, disappeared, injured or maimed during the conflict. Hemraj The hands that once held Sharma, a member of the school’s administration committee says weapons are now ploughing that 90 percent of the 350 students currently enrolled at Shahid the fields. Hemnath Bhusal Smriti have either been affected by the war or are children of of Arghakhachi has left the political activists who earn meagre wages. Children from Manpur path of bloody revolution study free of cost and underprivileged students are even provided and now dreams of green food while others pay a nominal fee of Rs 200 per month. School revolution. principal Basanta Raj Adhikari says students who study at Shahid Bhusal does not want Smriti till grade 8 have the option to transfer to Jankalyan Higher to pick up weapons Secondary School in Dudhras and live in the hostel. anymore and has refused to go take part in the integration process. “Revolution does not necessarily come through the barrel of the gun,” he explains. Convinced that it is not possible to change the country overnight, he has returned to his village with hopes of improving local livelihood through agriculture. Bhusal has rented 1.5 hectares of land for five years in Thada VDC and begun commercial vegetable farming. He says proudly, “I have sold vegetables worth Rs 250,000 in the last eight months.” The farmer says he chose agriculture because he wanted to show the villagers that it is possible to make fortunes on their own soil instead of toiling abroad. “Young people in Arghakhachi are inspired by his determination,” admits local social worker Motilal Belbase.

Baidya: People’s revolt Baburam: Peace and constitution

Uttam Nepal in Rajdhani, 22 April

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

During our 99 day journey through

mountains“ and plains we met people who shared their optimism“ and trust in change. It is their message of hope for change we wish to share.

Everest summiteer Apa Sherpa quoted in Nagarik, 25 April 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 15 16 BACK SIDE 27 APRIL - 3 MAY 2012 #602 www.nepalitimes.com www.nepalitimes.com

Maoists do the macarena he website of the CentCom. And CP ridiculing parties hold meetings in hotels Organisation of the PKD’s ambition to be executive and resorts without inviting TWorker’s Party of president as akin to being “Chief me?” Afghanistan Marxist-Leninist- Minister of Nepal” was an even Maoist, Principally Maoist (such more intellectual insult. FG an organisation exists, I kid you FG So the Babas have threatened a not, check out their website: Dharma Yuddha if Nepal is not www.mlmprincipallymaoism. As the fur flies in the Baddie re-declared a Hindu Kingdom. wordpress.com) has denounced lair, one person we don’t Not to be outdone, NEFIN has Comrade Ass for suggesting hear about much these days threatened a Janajati Jihad if in a previous column that is Comrade Mahara Dai. The there is no ethnic federalism. Chairman (“Shining Path”) former information minister who How many wars are we going Gonzalo had written to our was taped by You-Know-Who to have in this country? Wish own Chairman (“Prachanda asking a Chinese operative for they’d tell us so we could be Path”) Lotus Flower to give up 50 karodes to buy off opposition prepared. arms and join the men-stream CA members so PKD could be of national politics. Well, the prez again is conspicuous by his FG BIKRAM RAI Afghan Communards have absence from the political radar Other tidbits: taken umbrage and accused the Guess that’s that, then. Still sympathise with the proletarian screens. The Gentleman Comrade Jailed lawmaker Shyam Donkey of being a spy. can’t figure out what, or who, porters who will have to carry seems to be caught between Sundar Gupta has written to A statement published in the LOL and ROL are, tho. the Dear Leader up the Khumbu Bhayanak and Baidya. PKD Speaker Nembang from his jail Worker’s Party of Afghanistan FG Icefall. doesn’t trust KBM because of his cell saying he wants his CA Marxist-Leninist-Maoist, FG overtures to Baidya Kaka, and allowance, since he is still a Principally Maoist website is You think you were the BK doesn’t trust KBM because member of the august house. reprinted here in its entirety in only ones poking fun at the The pro-Badal Baddie he has a history for being PKD’s Baidya Kaka told reporters order to clear any remaining possibility of Comrade “Son mouthpiece Janadisha has been money bag. Don’t tell anyone I he is against PKD being a doubts you may have that the Also Rises” Prakash having dishing out super galis on the told you this, but the other reason directly-elected president Ass is a spook: his nose amputated because establishmentarian comrades Mahara Dai is lying low could be because he feels it “might invite his proboscis got frost-bitten led by BRB and PKD. The latest that he suspects the CIAA may dictatorship”. Of the proletariat, It is the task of all revolutionary and Maoists of even before he reached Base the world to denounce the “New” hoax of “Letter issue calls Comrade Chairman be probing him on the frequency perhaps? of Chairman Gonzalo to Nepali Maoists” in Nepali Camp during his bid to be a “Red Traitor” and insinuates scam. PKD was asked on Cuntipore Times. We have to uncover such lies. We hate, the first First Son to climb that Comrade Supersonic’s Tv if he preferred being called stamp and crash such bullshit hoax and lies, Mt Everest? You think that is FG by upholding Maoism and defending Chairman recent indisposition was Prachanda or Pushpa Kamal. Gonzalo’s Shining Path of Peoples’ War Until funny, huh? Then you should caused not by a stomach upset, Comrade Upadro seems to miss “I like Prachanda more than Communism! read the kind of jokes that but cholera. The Maobaddies all the gallivanting he did as Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and you Down with “New” Hoax of “Letter to Nepali have been circulating on the Maoists” didn’t even say this about their foreigner minister, and is itching will see more of Long life Chairman Gonzalo and his All-powerful Facebook walls of pro-BRB class enemies. And compared to get back into the headlines. Prachanda as it Thought and pro-Baidya factions of to this, Comrade Cloudy was One sure way of doing that is to signifies people’s Down with ROL and its miserable rats the Baddies. Some hint at the Down with LOL, Victor Quispe and other being politeness personified predict that the new constitution aspirations for miserable rats of imperialism and the reaction other appendages that may when he called the prime is impossible. He told reporters change.” Hey, Long life Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, Principally freeze over as Mr Prakash goes minister “corrupt, fascist and at the Club: “How can the Awesome, is that a Maoism higher up the mountain. Others anti-national” at Saturday’s constitution be drafted if the threat? ISSN 1814-2613

CDO Regd No 194/056/57 Lalitpur, Central Region Postal Regd. No 09/066/67