National 11 (Spotlight Weekly)

Equality Appeal

Political leaders and human rights activists demand reservations for underprivileged communities

By AKSHAY SHARMA

Bharoshi Chowdhary of Bara district goes to work carrying his own plate and cup. A musahar, Bharoshi is careful not to "contaminate" his Brahmin employers by using their dishes. Although the campaign against such discrimination has gained momentum in recent years, the age-old taboo is remains deeply entrenched in Nepalese society.

Leaders of major political parties and Dalit activists observed the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination last month by, among other things, demanding reservations for the socially and economically deprived segments of the population.

The government constituted a National Dalit Commission with the objective of ensuring the active participation of members of backward communities in the development of the country as well as the protection and promotion of their rights.

Nepal has outlawed the caste system that prevented "untouchable" people from entering public places and attending ceremonies. But Dalits say they continue to suffer because society still treats them as low-class citizens. These and other issues were discussed at program organized by the preparation committee for the 37th International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in the capital.

"Caste discrimination remains one of the major problems in our society," said Ramprit Paswan, vice-chairman of the upper chamber of parliament. "Discrimination in Nepal is not only in relation with caste, however. There is discrimination in terms of sex, power, economic condition and other factors."

Although the constitution has banned discrimination based on caste, sex, religion and race, Paswan said, bias continues in ugly forms. "There is discrimination within the Dalits, too." He suggested that Dalits should forge greater unity among themselves to strengthen their collective efforts to achieve equality. "The time has come to wake up to know what we are and understand our status in society," he said. "We should raise a peaceful voice for equal participation and representation and an egalitarian social structure."

Bijul Kumar Bishokarma, a member of the upper house, said, "Few people in urban areas are aware that caste discrimination is still a big problem in the country. However, in the rural areas, ëuntouchablesí are treated like animals. Deeply entrenched discrimination has denied Dalits access to opportunities the rest of the population takes for granted."

D.B. Sagar, convenor of the publicity sub-committee, said Dalits, who comprise a fifth of Nepalís population, were the severest victims of discrimination. "Time has proven that racism and racial discrimination are scientifically bogus, morally condemnable, social unjust and a blot on human civilisation."

Rishi Babu Pariyar, a member of the upper house, joined other activists in demanding reservations for Dalits in every sector of life.

At another program, political leaders representing the mainstream parties called for strong action and attitudinal changes to uplift the socio-economic situation of Dalits and other backward classes.

House of Representatives Speaker Tara Nath Ranabhat said political leaders, policy makers and others had shown great dreams to Dalits and members of other deprived communities. "But when the time comes for implementing their assurances, there have been no significant progress during the 12 years of the restoration of democracy," he said. "The ultimate need is strong political commitment, attitudinal change, practical thinking, self-motivation and effective implementation of policies and programs."

Rastriya Prajatantra Party president and former prime minister Surya Bahadur Thapa said the constitution should be amended in a way that would help to bridge the gaps prevailing in society. "Policy makers should formulate plans and programs highlighting the sentiments of disadvantaged communities," Thapa said.

Bam Dev Gautam, standing committee member of the main opposition CPN-UML, demanded the removal of discriminatory sections in the existing law and regulations in order to encourage equal distribution of the fruits of development.

In 1969, the United Nations declared March 21 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Some 15 non-governmental organizations working for the progress of Dalits have been jointly celebrating the day in Nepal.

As long as people like Bharoshi Chowdhary continue languishing under the burden of age-old taboos, the nation would find it difficult to harness its energy toward collective growth.