I always knew Nepal as a singular state, and not divided, like the way they've proposed right now. Reading about the violence in Tikapur makes me sad and distressed about the condition and future of the country. I can't help thinking if such heinous acts might take place here in Kathmandu as well, in the wake of such violence. I'm afraid that people might get carried away. Kathmandu is such a potpourri of people of all castes and creeds that anything can happen. But an alarming thought is that the issue of the states is just one of the many that has been infesting and troubling the hearts and mind of the public. Looking at the past, however, I don't think we have ever differentiated people based on their caste and creed, and we should be careful about maintaining that status. If we avoid prejudices and judgments regarding these kinds of things, maybe foolish and rash actions can be controlled.
Eliza Sthapit, 36, Environmentalist/ Social Worker
It's very disheartening to see horrifying news on social platforms and print media. The trauma that one faces when coming across such news, however, is not just an individual's experience. We all have to bear the brunt of such acts. As a mother, the frequent strikes and political instability makes me worry about my kids who have been forced to stay away from their classrooms. This might give a wrong idea to the children, who are the future, because if they do well in their school and studies, then it's a good thing for the country. You might think that it's just one or two of them, but that's where our problem lies. This ever-prevailing problem might be nation-wide, but until and unless we make change happen in the personal frontier, then we won't be able to sort the issue. We need to think and act on a personal level and be responsible for what we do. I think we've forgotten to give value to our acts and collectively, it's setting the country off like this. As for me, I take pride in small good things that I do every day. We need to be more positive so that we can turn the situation in our favor.
Yadav Prasad Bhattarai, 30, Civil Engineer
The issue that could have been handled if it had been taken a little bit seriously by the leaders has spiraled out of control. One can't help but think that the leaders have been too insensitive about the demands made by the public. Why else would they act almost indifferent towards the plight of the people and the constant struggle they've been putting up with? The chosen representatives have been acting irresponsibly and seem to be struggling with their own personal greed to deal with any of these issues. Do they feel no empathy towards us? In the name of constitution making, they've put up a grand show, and all of us have been reduced to puppets, and the fate of the country is being attached to the strings pulled by their incapable hands. The country wasn't divided in religious tolerance and harmony, but now, the events that have unfolded speak of a grave situation. Aside from the psychological impact of such an issue, it also creates distress in the personal and professional front. We are at loss from all sides.
Durga Prasad Poudel, 62, Social Planner
In my opinion, the biggest problem is that our country is aiming to change too many agendas in an incredible short span of time. There are so many issues that are raging and they are all of great significance but obviously it is not realistic to aim to tackle it all at the same time. Further, the leaders are handling these matters in an incredibly rogue fashion. Those responsible should research and study the situation and then make informed decisions. However, everything is haphazard at the moment, motivated mainly by the leaders' wish to retain power. I worry there might be more chaos and conflict ahead. Also, our leader's arrogance is playing to our disadvantage. They have not bothered to explain to the general public the reasons behind the demands. Over at Kailali, the Tharu people believe that if they don't protest with gusto their identity will vanish. Similarly, there are people in Surkhet who are worried sick that their business will die if they don't stage demonstrations. It's the leader's job to clear these misunderstandings but they choose to simply sit in the parliament even when Tarai is burning.
Bhola Dhugana, 35, Advocate
These recent news of violence are naturally very saddening and upsetting. Communal harmony is in serious jeopardy right now. There is a chance that two communities might not honor each other's right and actually lose respect for the other. This is supposed to be a new phase in our country so obviously there were bound to be disagreements; however, the situation has officially escalated. There is a need to make timely decisions. However those who have authority are busy isolating the public. They still are not considering the public's concerns and problems. I believe their selfishness is apparent for everybody to see. Many have lost trust in our leaders and it's hard to give them a chance when they are so inconsistent about what they say and what they do. Even at this crucial stage in our country's history, they are not being open to participation. Even today, their main aim is to maintain that tight grasp on power. Such incompetence on their part, I'm afraid, is making our country's future uncertain.
Diptee Archarya, 40, Director of Sanskriti International School
I believe we should have seen this coming. This is what happens when people start prioritizing their group and individual right rather than thinking about the nation's benefit. This whole talk about borders, religion, caste only drives a big division among the people. The thought itself is like bacteria that infects the whole attitude of the nation. What makes matters worse is that the politicians themselves are confused. I believe they did not know what they are asking for and now as we are facing the consequences of their demands, they are lost. They don't know what would be the right next step. There are curfews outside the valley, petrol has once again become scarce, the vegetable prices have skyrocketed, and all these are bad signs. But the politicians are incapable of leading, I doubt if it is even be appropriate to call them leaders. Though, of course, there always is hope. Every single time we set out on a new attempt for the constitution, there is always that feeling that maybe this time we will succeed. I remember harboring these hopes right after the earthquake but now I'm afraid that there is a big chance that this attempt too will prove to be futile.
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