Jigyasha Sonam,
B.A.LL.B, 2nd year, Kathmandu School of Law, Nepal, Bhaktapur
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Nestled between two accomplished nations across the South Asian spectrum, China and India, Nepal is in the lap of the Himalayas, and is a country that has an ancient history unlike any other nation in the region. One cannot deem Nepal diminutive, for it has been inscribed in numerous ancient scriptures and Puranas that this land may stand as one of the primordial realms. Through the corridors of antiquity to the present juncture, Nepal harbored myriad prospects to evolve into a triumphant, and opulent nation. Alas, the dominion of autocratic governance, the pervasion of distorted ideologies, and the failure to utilize the available resources have regrettably hindered Nepal from scaling the zenith of prosperity. Nepal has been counted as one of the Asia’s impoverished countries.
Despite having the gift of nature as truly mesmerizing, there have been plenty of issues and evils in the country. Nepalese people have been dealing with a slew of societal issues, including corruption, inflation, high taxes, the country’s deteriorating economic situation, and limited access to health care. Our country’s tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, construction, various industries, supply chain and other service sectors had also been adversely impacted due to Covid-19 pandemic. Due to which the global production and supply chain have been hit hard resulting in great obstacles for economically disadvantaged communities being pushed more into poverty.
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Rousseau contends that the state’s primary role is to serve the people, emphasizing government actions for the collective good. However, in this domain, the state seems to have stumbled from the outset, displaying a lack of accountability and transparency in every facet. David Cameron (United Kingdom, 2016), Silvio Berlusconi (Italy, 2011), Yukio Hatoyama (Japan, 2010) etc. are the instances of visionary leaders with genuine concerns about the country’s progress, who acknowledged the failure of their policies and stepped back promoting heightened intellectual exchange and establishing an environment where discussions emphasize factual evidence rather than personal agendas.
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Nepalese people have been unveiling their dissatisfactions and frustrations regarding the various circumstances they have been facing in numerous sectors, according to several surveys and analysis. The instability seen in the economy of the country is all due to the lack of quality in laws and policies prevailing in the territory, the expertise speaks. Our country’s state is said to have been trying to eradicate the frailties of the nation for a very long period, yet no endeavor has truly proven efficacious for Nepal.
According to Observer Research Foundation (ORF), throughout the fiscal year 2022-23, a record-breaking 750,000 youth sought foreign employment. Each day, over 2,000 legally pursue job opportunities in overseas countries. When questioned about their decision to depart for foreign shores in pursuit of better opportunities, the youth articulated that their emigration symbolizes a manifestation of discontentment with the prevailing governance. At the core of Rousseau’s social theory lies the concept of the ‘Social contract’—an agreement between individuals and the government where individuals surrender certain freedoms for protection and communal benefits.
Rousseau contends that the state’s primary role is to serve the people, emphasizing government actions for the collective good. However, in this domain, the state seems to have stumbled from the outset, displaying a lack of accountability and transparency in every facet. David Cameron (United Kingdom, 2016), Silvio Berlusconi (Italy, 2011), Yukio Hatoyama (Japan, 2010) etc. are the instances of visionary leaders with genuine concerns about the country’s progress, who acknowledged the failure of their policies and stepped back promoting heightened intellectual exchange and establishing an environment where discussions emphasize factual evidence rather than personal agendas.
But delving into the status quo in Nepal, the multitude of scandals and controversies undeniably attests to the type of political leadership here. The enduring dominance of the old guards perceived as youth activists by traditional standards, who have consistently secured top positions of authority for an extended period are not mindful that the relentless pursuit of power devoid of a vision for prosperity inevitably paves the way for self-destruction. In the current quandary, as we stand at the crossroads of uncertainty, the pressing question arises: What avenues lie before us? Who, in this labyrinth of concerns, emerges as our true guide? Whose counsel should we heed, and where do we find the authentic answers to the inquiries that trouble the hearts of our nation’s anxious citizens?
In the midst of a prevailing sense of surrender, not only have the younger generation lost hope for brighter days, but even the children, influenced by those who have succumbed to despair, find themselves disheartened. I find myself pondering the future of my homeland with a deep curiosity. I wonder where we can find individuals genuinely concerned about the current situation, who might offer a glimpse of a more positive future. There are moments when I find myself grappling with doubts, particularly concerning my deep affection for the remarkable land I call home. These uncertainties lead me to ponder why I seem unable to align my perspectives with others regarding the challenges our nation confronts.
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I wonder why I can’t see eye to eye with others on the issues our nation is facing. It’s a source of reflection, sparking inquiries about my ability to make a meaningful impact, especially when standing alone in a crowd of individuals who exude an air of arrogance. Despite these uncertainties, a resilient curiosity lingers within me, compelling me to explore the potential for change, even in the face of daunting odds. In the quiet corners of my contemplation, I find myself surrounded with questions that echo in the corridors of my thoughts. Are there any citizens left who share my concerns, refusing to accept the status quo and fiercely ready to face the challenges. Or do we find ourselves surrounded by the silent echoes of martyrs; their souls now seemingly crying helplessly? On the contrasting side, figures like Prem Aacharya, even in death, linger in our collective memory, serving as poignant reminders of our nation’s struggle.
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I wonder why I can’t see eye to eye with others on the issues our nation is facing. It’s a source of reflection, sparking inquiries about my ability to make a meaningful impact, especially when standing alone in a crowd of individuals who exude an air of arrogance. Despite these uncertainties, a resilient curiosity lingers within me, compelling me to explore the potential for change, even in the face of daunting odds. In the quiet corners of my contemplation, I find myself surrounded with questions that echo in the corridors of my thoughts. Are there any citizens left who share my concerns, refusing to accept the status quo and fiercely ready to face the challenges. Or do we find ourselves surrounded by the silent echoes of martyrs; their souls now seemingly crying helplessly? On the contrasting side, figures like Prem Aacharya, even in death, linger in our collective memory, serving as poignant reminders of our nation’s struggle.
So, what now, what steps can be taken to safeguard countless individuals like Aacharya? How can we shield our people from being exploited in several ways in distant lands every passing moment, far from their cherished motherland? The key, it seems, is within our reach, embedded in our thoughts and shared vision. We can show it by doing it, but only with collective action, with unity. Regardless of our identities or personal interests, if we approach our tasks with sincerity and honesty, we hold the power to effect positive change in this situation. Imagine a scenario where everyone in our society, be it farmers, industrial leaders, or the president, passionately and honestly performing their respective roles.
In such a situation, it’s worth pondering: what could impede our journey toward prosperity? It’s an idea worth reflecting on, considering how each person’s dedication and integrity could collectively propel us towards a more prosperous future. Giving up means losing confidence in our future endeavors. Instead of quitting, let’s view our challenges as opportunities to reshape our future the way we want it to be. Imagine a path where we control everything, bringing happiness and satisfaction not just for ourselves but for the younger ones too. Let’s not give up; let’s don’t leave things unfinished. Remember, every ending can be a happy one, and if it’s not happy, it’s not the end, there’s more to add in history!
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# For the sake of encouraging the new comers- engaged in studying, we have not edited her remarks. Congratulations Jigyasha Sonam. : Ed. Upadhyaya.