Young Nepali youths seem to be aware of practices based on such prejudices which they share with Republica.[break]
Diksha Mahara, 19, an A-Level graduate from Graded English Medium School, Institute of Higher Education (GIHE); Arjun Thapa Magar, 26, post-graduate in English Literature and school coordinator; Rhythm Upreti, 16, A-Level student at Chelsea International Academy; and Ranjan Yadav, 17, student at Pentagon International College share their views on the current racial practices among youths and also their personal experiences.
All of them agree that our traditions should be preserved. However, timely modifications of those traditions are necessary. They also added that not only at individual level but change should occur in the government as well.
Where does discrimination foster?
Diksha: Although we claim ourselves to be developing at a good pace and our generation is receiving quality education, we have it in our family roots. We’ve seen our elders, whom we idolize, constantly displaying derogatory behavior. If we try to differ and discuss these issues, they emphasize on the fact that such practices come from our morals and we have to act accordingly and value it. Fighting against it is a big challenge.
Arjun: Our population consists of such orthodox people and we are at times forced to adjust with their beliefs since we aren’t able to fight back.
Rhythm: We attend various workshops where we’re taught the drawbacks of discriminations but somehow those teachings remain limited to that particular workshop itself. Since it lies deep within us, we tend to automatically retain the older practices despite agreeing on anti-discriminatory dialogues.
Have you experienced prejudice?
Ranjan: Many times. In school, I was mocked at with words such as “dhoti” and “kale.” I tolerated it since I was a new student. But now I’m referred by my name itself. Even now my friends address me with such words but I feel comfortable with it.
Diksha: I haven’t personally experienced it but have seen people suffer through it.
Arjun: Playfully people mock at me calling me “Mongolian faced” and similar appearance-based remarks.
Rhythm: I’ve seen my friends going through it and felt their helplessness.
Do you think that there are newer forms of inequity in our society, or the old ones based on castes, genders, religions and regions?
Arjun: Looking at the example of the DIG murdering his wife despite her family background and educational level, this shows that our society is still patriarchal.In Dharan, a Dalit doctor was invited to an event where he tagged his father along with him but sadly his father was not let in because he didn’t come from a so-called reputed profession and caste.
Diksha: Individual differences are present in our society. Talking about educational differences, those with more number of degrees are favored more than those with potential. It’s a society where such false beliefs persist.
What role do media have in endorsing or eliminating prejudices?
Rhythm: It has a huge role in influencing the society since most people believe and get swayed by the contents that media presents.
Arjun: I think it is so far neutral.
Diksha: Sometimes, media tends to do character assassination of certain people. This may contribute to generalized discrimination of that particular person’s group by people. This is negative.
What do you think of the quota system in various government institutions?
Diksha: It’s a nation where having contacts with high officials act as a boon since those who have such contacts make their way more easily than those who are hardworking and have genuine potential.
Arjun: There shouldn’t be any reservations at all.
Ranjan: Opportunities should be based on equality.
Rhythm: Some quotas should be reserved for those in need rather than on caste or gender basis.
How do you think racism can be eradicated?
Ranjan: We should try to treat those around us equally.
Diksha: We may do whatever we feel is right provided we don’t harm or disturb those around us.
Arjun: Our attitude has to be changed. We can start at home and with peers. For instance, I’m in favor of inter-caste marriage.
Rhythm: Secularity is a good developmental aspect and hopefully more such progresses will be made in future.
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