Christopher Sharma

During the vigil in the Cathedral of the Assumption 12 people were baptized. Many Hindus and Buddhists among those present. Many people who have expressed a desire to return. Msgr. Simick: "New Christians must spread the word of the Lord and lead unbelievers to God."

The Charter (secular) should have been promulgated by January 2015. Given the difficulties of the Constituent Assembly, Msgr. Simick has called for prayers to foster an agreement between the party leaders: "May God give them the wisdom to write the Constitution."

Indian Nobel Prize laureate Satyarthi and Brazilian Senator Buarque are behind the initiative. Poverty and traditions explain the extent of the problem in South Asia. The group underscores the importance of a joint struggle and better education. Likewise, "religious teachers are crucial in reducing child slavery”.

An investigation by Nepali and Indian police identified four Indian terrorists who used fake Nepali passports to travel for at least six years. The men were able to get into the Nepal illegally and bribe local officials. The government announced that corrupt officials would be properly punished. For a former Nepali Interior minister, “the terrorists take advantage of the country’s political instability, poverty and rampant corruption."

3-4 rapes take place every day in Nepal, especially on children under 12 years of age. Religious leaders and human activists oppose the proposal. "No to forced sterility, seek alternative measures".

In its 2015 report, the Asian Development Bank ranks Nepal 132nd out of 147 countries in terms of competitiveness. Capital investments are limited and the government does not invest in growth. Political interference and frequent staff turnover are blamed.

A study by Kailali District police highlights an alarming trend. According to Kamala Bhatta, of the Nepali police, every year "5,000 women disappear as a result of human trafficking related to prostitution and organ harvesting." Often, the victims are sold by their own families. For Catholic activist Rupa Rai, "The government must seriously address the issue."

Christians were the first to open co-educational schools for boys and girls in the country. Owing to the work of the Jesuits and the missionaries, more female students will take the exam than male students this year. Education Minister praises Christians for their role in promoting gender equality in education, one of the UN Millennium Goals.

The little girl died from the injuries her 28-year-old attacked inflicted on her. Across Nepali society, there is growing demand that rapists receive life in prison and the confiscation of their assets. "Sexual violence and other crimes are increasing in a society that is increasingly devoid of spirituality," says Jesuit priest.

Christian leaders and Jesuit schools organised a big rally for women's rights. Those present prayed for two women burnt by acid in a recent attack. Mgr Sharma, bishop emeritus of Nepal, slammed sex selective abortions of girls. Anuradha Koirala, CNN Heroes Award for 2010 appealed to the authorities to respect women's rights and freedom.

Deputy Prime Minister Bamdev Gautam presents a security report to parliament. The authorities have stepped up surveillance of radical and monarchist groups. Some leftwing and separatist groups are also a danger.

Children are also victims of child labour practices and early marriages. Minority groups (especially Muslims) are the most affected. Widespread malnutrition has prevented Nepal from meeting its Millennium Development goals.