Valley
Protesting parties observe ‘black day’
As the government marked the first anniversary of promulgation of the new constitution, Madhesi and Janajati parties affiliated to the Sanghiya Gathabandhan remembered those killed during protests by observing the occasion as a ‘black day’.As the government marked the first anniversary of promulgation of the new constitution, Madhesi and Janajati parties affiliated to the Sanghiya Gathabandhan remembered those killed during protests by observing the occasion as a ‘black day’.
The agitating forces took out protest rallies in Parsa, Chitwan, Rautahat, Dhanusha, Siraha, Saptari, Banke and Khotang, among other districts, wearing black bands around their arms and heads. Different programmes were organised in the districts both in favour and against the constitution. More than 50 people had lost their lives during violent protests in the plains that lasted for more than five months.
“The constitution was imposed through use of force. The day will always remain a black day for Madhesi communities,” said Sadbhawana Party Chairman Rajendra Mahato.
According to the Gathabandhan, the agitating parties demonstrated in more than 20 districts in the hills and the southern plains. In the Capital, cadres of the alliance gathered at Shanti Vatika and paraded around the city waving black flags.
Sanghiya Samajbadi Forum Nepal Co-chair Rajendra Shrestha, who is in Salleri of Okhaldhunga to participate in protest organised by supporters of Sherpa province, said that the protest was against the constitution that he claims further discriminates the marginalised communities. He said the constitution should be amended for a broader ownership. The agitating parties have opposed numerous provisions of the new constitution, including the state restructuring.
“It is not possible to implement the constitution as it has been disowned by over half the country’s population. It should be amended by addressing the grievances of the agitating parties,” said Shrestha.
The Madhesi and Tharu communities denied to acknowledge the Constitution of Nepal 2072 promulgated on September 20, 2015, saying that the new charter did not incorporate their rights.