FEATURES NEWS THE RISING NEPAL (DAILY)

For Peace, Law And Order
United Effort Needed

By Prem N. Kakkar

IN A democracy it is the right of the people to adhere to their own preferred ideologies. This is true for Nepal since the past twelve years. But uncalled for activities in the name of freedom is undesirable. The norms and ideals that conform to democratic culture have to be maintained.

Unique

The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal-1990 guarantees the basic human rights to all irrespective of any affiliation. That is a uniqueness of the Constitution that we have. However, there are some people who always come up with criticisms which are not valid. The Constitution has made it easier for the people to enjoy the rights and freedom without any fear.

Twelve years is not a long time but the strides taken are noteworthy. It is this very reason that the two general elections were held. The provisions enshrined in the Constitution made it possible for the people's participation in the administration. This is an important achievement.

The political parties know very well that democracy must be strengthened. The political leaders are mature and wise people so what they say must be balanced and directed for the welfare of the people. Healthy criticism is necessary to right any wrong. Good works of the government has to be appreciated. It is then possible to make an all out effort to develop the country.

The year 2002 saw many ups and downs on the political front. The dissolution of the House of Representatives and the call for fresh elections was an important event. But as the security situation in the country was not conducive for the massive exercise, nothing materialised. That was quite unfortunate. The Royal Address three months back and the formation of the new government under Prime Minister Lokendra Bahadur Chand were other highlights.

It is three months since the new government was formed. The major tasks the government has undertaken are the maintenance of law and order and fixing the date for the polls together with holding it. To fulfill these objectives is not an easy task considering the prevailing situation.

For this, first of all the violence has to be stopped. To bring the other side to the negotiating is necessary. In this particular direction, the support, cooperation and suggestions of all are necessary especially of the political parties and their leaders.

It is challenging times so every step taken must be with caution. The political parties must make their presence felt not only in the urban centres but also in the rural areas. It is unity that counts.
The fulfillment of the aspirations of the people is what must be uppermost in mind. Petty interests must give way to overall national interest. The country's economy has suffered the most and efforts must be made to prop it up. Strategies must be devised whereby the people will feel secure. Due to the lack of this, it has been reported that a large number of youths have abandoned their villages. The manpower that is so necessary to drive the wheels of economy is not where they ought to be. The rural economy has been badly hit. This is of grave concern because the agricultural sector contributes the most to overall economy. With reliance on traditional farming techniques there is more emphasis on manual labour. With many people fleeing from the villages means a lack of labour and so a fall in agro production.

Prime Minister Chand has said that once peace as well as law and order situation improves industry and business along with other sectors will prosper. This is a right observation based on the fact it is only normalcy that can revive the economy. The revitalisation of the economy will see more employment opportunities that will help raise the living standard of the people.

The Tenth Plan that was recently unveiled is basically focussed on poverty alleviation. The plans and programmes outlined therein to be success oriented must be implemented in the right manner. It is the implementation aspect that is important. Many failures in the past arose from lax implementation which also saw corruption raising its ugly head. The fight against corruption has picked up pace with cases being filed against a number of people including government officials and former ministers. Cleaning the cupboard will give enough breathing space.

Hope

The government and its machinery is moving in the right direction and it can be hoped that the situation will improve at the earliest. The people will then be able to heave a sigh of relief and ready to elect their representatives.

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