The political achievement that marked the end of a decade-long transition and jubilated Nepalis after 65 years of constant struggle for the rightful constitution has largely been overshadowed by the ongoing protests by agitating Madhes-based political parties. It was a sad eventful history for Nepal to see so many black flags, "not my constitution" hashtags and blackout in Tarai while the rest of the country were singing and dancing, overjoyed at the feat of welcoming the new constitution. As protests, blockades and violence erupts in the southern part of the nation, implementation of the constitution has been viewed with much doubt and suspicion. Meanwhile, the big three are trying their best to win the confidence of their Madhesi counterparts.Talking about the demands of Madhesi parties, they want whole of the Tarai districts from Jhapa to Kanchanpur to be divided into two states. At this point, I ask myself if that is exactly the need of the Madhesis. After all, things have changed a lot since the Madhes Uprising 2008 and moreover, the new constitution has guaranteed the rights of all ethnic minorities including Madhesis. Interestingly, Madhesi leaders from Congress, UML and UCPN Maoist have readily welcomed the constitution. Thus, with this attitude of divide and rule as displayed by Madhesi leaders, it raises a question on their intentions: Are they really representing Madhesis and promoting their interests or are they simply trying to secure more land to rule?
Adding up, India seems to have quite much of a soft edge for the demand of Madhesi parties. This might be a good thing but recent events have raised a lot of eyebrows in Nepal over India's diplomatic concerns. Their open support and the controversial statement released by the special envoy to Nepal has been viewed with much dissent as many Nepalis felt that India is getting too involved and is meddling in Nepal's internal affairs. Meanwhile, their reluctance to send goods to Nepal across the border has also drawn media's attention the world over.
From a vantage point, the recent events seem to be no more than a clash of ego of top political leaders, and since politics happens to be the game of sophism, it took no time for them to turn their egoism into sectarian jingoism.
On a different note, in the midst of such happenings, I urge all the concerned parties and citizens of this progressive nation to acknowledge our achievement and understand and appreciate the fact that constitution is not an absolute document; it can be changed at any time according to the needs and aspirations of the people. In this connection, I urge all protesting parties to put an end to this decadent fad of strikes, bandas and blockades and put their understanding through appropriate democratic channels. Nepal is a sovereign, peaceful, prosperous country with wonderful resources and proud history. Let's not be divided over petty demarcation issues but rise above it. Let's make a new Nepal—strong, independent, resilient and economically robust.
Jai Nepal!
Pujan is an A-Levels student at Budhanilkantha School in Kathmandu. He also blogs at thumbpins.blogspot.com.
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