NEPAL
By Sangita Shresthova, 09/16/2001
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Amidst the rapidly disintegrating political situation in Nepal and failing peace talks between government and Maoist rebel representatives, most Nepalese media coverage of the tragic events in the U.S. has centered around "facts," compassion, and direct implications for Nepal. Thus far, prominent events have been the United States' formal request to Nepal to provide any information it may have regarding the attacks and the line which formed at the American Embassy in Kathmandu where Nepalese gathered to express their condolences. Ironically to an uninformed bystander, the queu outside the American embassy would not be an unusual sight as people have been known to spend the night queuing outside the U.S. Consular office to try their luck for a coveted US entry visa. As Nepali Times, an English language newspaper, points out, there are thousands of Nepalese legally or illegally living in New York and it is very possible that some may have been among the victims. As the U.S. finalizes its plans for retaliation and India and Pakistan become involved, Nepal will have to play its diplomacy cards carefully. Interestingly, on 15 September Nepal News, reported an $18.7 million U.S. grant to Nepal to support private sector hydropower development. Could this be an "advance" to ensure Nepal's allegiance as America sets out on its quest for revenge? Calls for revenge, condolences, disbelief, shock, and anger are all part of Nepal's very recent history and on a symbolic level the slaughter of the Nepalese Royal family resembles the carnage at the World Trade Center. Though the country had transitioned to a constitutional monarchy a decade ago, the King remained an almost sacred symbol of continuity which transcended the bleak political and socio-economic realities prevailing in the country. On 1 June, this continuity was shattered and Nepalese at home and abroad woke up to a harsh, frightening and vulnerable reality. As World Trade Center crumbled on 11 September, terror and feelings of vulnerability escalated in ways that are perhaps not so different from the tragedies of a far away Himalayan Kingdom. Related Links |
