The entire premise behind opting for a federal structure is to make every sphere of Nepali society, which has traditionally been dominated by Brahmins, Chettris and Newars, more inclusive but this suggestion strikes deep into the very essence of the idea. True, if the proposal is implemented, we might see the rise of at least another 14 to 15 groups but isn’t the whole idea behind going federal being defeated by making grounds for the progress and development of only a limited number of communities? Isn’t this unfair on dozens of other groups that will not have a majority in any of the proposed provinces? Isn’t this discriminatory toward groups that have traditionally been living in certain areas but will now be barred from opportunities simply because they are in the minority? Whither goes free competition, the hallmark of a free society?
This Maoist-proposed suggestion is a blatant infringement on the democratic rights of the people. We have always warned that taking the ethnicity angle too far while carving out federal provinces and creating laws and regulations for them will create deep schisms in our otherwise tolerant society. We warn again that if this idea finds a place in the upcoming constitution, it will foster anger and resentment among the majority of Nepalis at the cost of a few. Common sense must prevail and the proposal must be defeated when it is presented at the CA for voting. This proposal will find a place in the upcoming statute only if it gets support from two-thirds CA members present during voting.
Though some parliamentarians belonging to CPN-UML and other minor parties have given a nod to the suggestion, the parties as a whole are against it. Four Madhes-based parties have also already voiced their opposition against the proposal. Meanwhile, it has been reported that even the voting process in the Full Committee was full of anomalies. This is enough evidence that the proposal should not find a place in the upcoming constitution. It must be discarded in earnest!
Related story
Regressive forces working to reverse achievements of people’s s...
