Let’s stick together in these tough times

Our nation is in turmoil. The "unofficial" economic blockade imposed by India right after the promulgation of the new historic constitution continues till date resulting in shortages of fuel and daily commodities. Common folks across the country have been facing severe hardship as fuel shortage has gripped the entire nation disrupting the movement of people.

Nepal's trade and industries have been hard hit owing to the blockade. Majority of schools and colleges have remained closed. Dashain is long over and Tihar has kicked off, but there isn't any sign for the blockade to be lifted.

Our hope that the promulgation of the new constitution will usher in happier and more prosperous days ahead has turned to ashes. Our life is getting more and more difficult and the acute shortage of cooking gas, daily supplies and even medicines are soon to create a humanitarian crisis.

India, as our neighbor, should respect the constitution drafted by our representatives which is an outcome of a really long wait and struggle. Many have interpreted the Indian response as interference in Nepal's internal affairs, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. At the same time, Madhesis have been protesting against some provisions in the new constitution and are obstructing the border, too. They claim that the government has failed in accommodating their aspirations and voices in the new constitution.

Our government should address the sensible demands of the disgruntled Madhesis and Tharu groups soon in order to prevent the situation from getting worse. All the major political parties should incorporate demands of the Madhesi parties currently protesting in the Tarai through dialogue to ensure peace and long term stability.

India has shown inhumane behavior to her closest ally violating human rights and various treaties. It's surprising how and why the international community has remained silent. Is bullying smaller nation a bigger country's foreign policy? Nepal is and will be an independent and sovereign country and we Nepalis, as always, will proudly adapt and survive regardless of the circumstances. If the blockade persists, indeed, we're ready to face come what may, because we don't have it in us to beg with others.

Khadga Prasad Oli's election as the new prime minister of the country rekindled hope among all Nepalis. People expected him to end the blockade and resolve the Madhes issues. However, he is busy expanding his cabinet. It is high time that Nepali politicians proved their tenacity. Our leaders must continue high level political dialogues and meetings with Indian authorities regarding the "unofficial" blockade. Our government should use proper diplomatic channels and reach out to the international community if need be, to ensure our rights according to various treaties and laws.

The blockade marks a low point in the age-old ties of Nepal and India, and unique friendship characterized by open border, culture, tradition, and people-to-people relations. We must learn lessons from these tough times and be prepared for the future. We should also start focusing on being self-reliant, and find out alternative trade options rather than being fully dependent to India.

For a nation that was ravaged by the massive earthquake, coping with another crisis so soon is surely an arduous challenge. But, even in these tough times, we need to stick together, work to strengthen national unity, and seek to be an economically stronger and more resilient nation.

Avishek is a high school graduate from Prerana Science College in Bharatpur, Chitwan.