Kalpit Parajuli

Hundreds protest in Kathmandu after a young Buddhist nun is the victim of violence. For the past 17 days, she has been in a state of semi-consciousness, whilst her attackers are still free. For critics, the government is washing its hands when it tells men and women religious to defend themselves.

Beijing praises Nepali police crackdown against Dalai Lama supporters. For China’s new ambassador to Kathmandu, demonstrations by Tibetan activists do not count. China and India are competing for the economic control of South Asia.

Floods and landslides destroyed more than 500 houses in the country’s eastern districts. Caritas Nepal launches national campaign to help displaced people. Climate change is blamed for record rainfall since 2006.

The operation, started yesterday by President Ram Baran Yadav, will also apply to non-Hindus. The declaration of secular state (2006), the Himalayan republic grants more recognition to religious minorities. Appeal of Christian leaders to declare religious faith without fear.

More than 850 landmines have been cleared. UK urges Nepal to sign the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction.

It is the most serious case in the history of Nepal. Politicians, ministers and senior police officers accused of bogus purchases for millions of euro in materials for the humanitarian mission. The documentation is also the name of the late Prime Minister Koirala, a supporter of Nepalese democracy.

Hundreds of women emigrated for work to Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan and other Islamic countries, and have not been heard from for years. Those who succeed in returning home shows signs of physical exhaustion, injuries and are often infected with AIDS.

Changes to the criminal code are currently under review. Anyone preaching or trying to persuade others to change religion could get up to five years in prison and almost US$ 700 in fines. Christians fear new code could restrict religious freedom and be used by Hindu extremists.

The number of visitors to Nepal is up, especially from Asia. Despite tensions and social disorder, tourism remains crucial for the country’s development, but for experts, the sector alone cannot sustain the Nepali economy.

Born Hindu, Rita discovered the Catholic faith during a serious illness. She was healed thanks to the comfort of prayer. “Placing myself in her trust gives me the strength to face the hardships of daily life,” she says. Every Sunday, more than 200 Hindus attend Mass in the cathedral.

A first draft of the new constitution and guidelines to reintegrate Maoist fighters should be ready in three-month time. However, there are many questions about how prepared the parties are to work together. The deal for example lacks binding principles and a detailed agenda.

Government and opposition fail to agree to extend the term of the constituent assembly and find ways to solve the country’s crisis. People are stocking up on essential goods fearful the country might plunge again in a state of anarchy.