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Marxism has a lengthy and intricate history in Nepal, dating back to the formation of the first communist party in 1949. Over time, Nepal has witnessed various manifestations of Marxist movements, including the People’s War led by the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) from 1996 to 2006, which ultimately resulted in the establishment of a republic and the elimination of the monarchy. Marxism has played a significant role in Nepal’s political landscape, particularly during the Maoist insurgency that ravaged the country for a decade. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2006 marked a pivotal moment, ending the armed conflict and paving the way for a democratic republic. Subsequently, the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), a Marxist-Leninist party, rose to prominence and became a dominant force in Nepali politics. In the present day, as Nepal undergoes a period of political transition, the challenge for Marxist movements is to uphold democracy amidst a changing environment. This entails grappling with complex issues such as economic development, social inequality, and political power, while also ensuring the protection of democratic principles and civil liberties. One of the main challenges Marxism faces in Nepal is the tension between revolutionary ideals and democratic institutions. While Marxism has traditionally been associated with revolutionary change and the overthrow of existing power structures, Nepal’s reality is that democratic institutions have taken root and are perceived as legitimate by a majority of the population. This means that any Marxist movement must engage with these institutions and operate within the framework of the democratic system, rather than seeking to overthrow it. Another challenge lies in reconciling economic development with social justice. Nepal is one of the poorest countries in Asia, with a GDP per capita of just over $1,000. While economic growth is a top priority for the Nepali government, concerns arise that this growth may come at the expense of social justice and environmental sustainability. Marxist movements must confront these issues and find ways to promote economic development while ensuring that the benefits are distributed equitably and sustainably. Simultaneously, Marxist movements in Nepal must confront the legacy of the People’s War. While the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic were significant achievements, the conflict also led to significant human rights abuses and a breakdown of democratic institutions. Any Marxist movement seeking power in Nepal must address these issues and demonstrate a commitment to upholding civil liberties and democratic norms. Professor Chaitanya Mishra’s book ‘Loktantra Ra Aajako Marxbad’ explores the challenges faced by Marxism in Nepal and the need to address them. Mishra argues that Nepal’s current political landscape is characterized by a complex interplay of various factors, including democracy, capitalism, globalization, and regionalism. One of the primary challenges for Marxism in Nepal is to reconcile its ideological roots with the changing political and economic realities of the country. Marxism has traditionally been associated with the struggle against capitalism, but Nepal’s current political landscape is increasingly shaped by capitalist forces. To uphold democracy, Marxism needs to find ways to engage with these forces without compromising its core values. Another challenge is addressing the growing influence of regionalism in Nepal’s politics. The country’s diverse ethnic groups possess distinct identities and aspirations, and Marxism needs to find ways to address these aspirations while maintaining its commitment to a unified Nepal. However, the transition from armed struggle to democratic governance has not been without difficulties. Today, the challenge lies in maintaining a harmonious relationship between Marxist ideals and democratic principles. According to experts like Mishra, the crux of this challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between the collective aspirations advocated by Marxism and the protection of individual rights inherent in democracy. Marxism emphasizes collective ownership and equitable distribution of resources to foster social justice, while democracy focuses on individual rights, freedom of expression, and competitive elections. The challenge arises when these two ideologies clash, demanding a nuanced approach to preserve democracy while addressing the concerns of marginalized communities. One of the primary concerns in Nepal’s current political climate is the consolidation of power within the Communist Party of Nepal. Initially, the CPN played a crucial role in the democratic process, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and pushing for socio-economic reforms. However, concerns have emerged regarding the party’s commitment to democratic principles as time has progressed. Mishra highlights the importance of respecting fundamental rights, such as freedom of the press, an independent judiciary, and a pluralistic political landscape, in maintaining a thriving democracy. Unfortunately, instances have been observed where these principles have been undermined, raising questions about the CPN’s dedication to upholding democratic values. The concentration of power within a single party also raises concerns about the erosion of checks and balances in Nepal’s democracy. As power becomes increasingly centralized, the space for dissenting voices and opposition parties diminishes, creating an environment that stifles democratic progress. The absence of robust checks and balances presents a significant challenge, necessitating the establishment of an inclusive and accountable democratic framework. To overcome these challenges, Mishra suggests fostering a culture of constructive dialogue and democratic debate within the country. He emphasizes the need to safeguard democratic institutions and ensure that power remains decentralized and accountable to the people. A pluralistic political landscape that respects the diversity of ideas and promotes healthy competition between parties is crucial for a vibrant democracy. Democracy, in its essence, is not merely an end in itself but a means to achieve a just society. Professor Mishra asserts that Nepal must strike a balance between Marxism’s emphasis on social justice and democracy’s commitment to individual freedoms. This delicate equilibrium can be achieved through a comprehensive and inclusive approach that acknowledges the rights of all citizens while addressing the socio-economic disparities prevalent in the country. Overall, the challenge facing Marxism in Nepal today is to navigate the complex political landscape while upholding its core values of democracy and equality. Mishra’s book provides valuable insight into these challenges and offers a way forward for Marxism in Nepal. Finally, Marxist movements in Nepal must also contend with geopolitical forces that seek to shape the country’s political future. Nepal is situated between two of the world’s largest powers, India and China, both of which have significant economic and strategic interests in the region. This means that any Marxist movement must navigate a complex geopolitical landscape and find ways to promote Nepal’s interests while maintaining its independence and sovereignty. In conclusion, the challenge facing Marxism in Nepal today is to uphold democracy in a changing landscape. This involves engaging with democratic institutions, promoting economic development while ensuring social justice and environmental sustainability, addressing the legacy of the People’s War, and navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. While these challenges are significant, they also present opportunities for Marxist movements to demonstrate their commitment to democratic values and to promote a more just and equitable society in Nepal. The author is pursuing BA LLB at Kathmandu School of Law

Corruption has long been a persistent challenge for Nepal, hindering progress, undermining development, and eroding public trust in the government. The scourge of corruption hampers good governance, weakens institutions, and perpetuates social and economic inequalities. However, amidst this grim reality, there have been favorable examples of individuals and initiatives working tirelessly to expose and combat corruption in Nepal. Corruption has infested various sectors of Nepali society, hindering good governance and impeding the nation’s advancement. In order to address this issue effectively, it is crucial to unmask corruption in Nepal and understand its profound impact on the country’s development trajectory. Transparency International Nepal: A beacon of integrity Transparency International Nepal (TIN) has been instrumental in exposing corruption and advocating for transparency and accountability in Nepal. TIN conducts research, monitors public institutions, and raises awareness about corruption-related issues. The organization’s relentless efforts have led to several high-profile investigations, resulting in the prosecution of corrupt individuals. TIN’s advocacy work and its initiatives to empower citizens have been crucial in unmasking corruption and promoting good governance at various levels. Rise of digital governance: Promoting transparency Nepal has embraced digital governance as a means to enhance transparency and reduce corruption. The use of online platforms for government services and public procurement has streamlined processes, minimized human interference, and reduced opportunities for corruption. The introduction of e-governance platforms, such as the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and the Public Procurement Monitoring Office (PPMO), has created a more transparent and accountable system. These digital initiatives have significantly contributed to unmasking corruption and promoting good governance in Nepal. Social media activism: Citizen-led movements The rise of social media in Nepal has empowered citizens to voice their concerns and expose corruption. Numerous citizen-led movements, such as the ‘Enough is Enough’ campaign, have utilized social media platforms to raise awareness, share evidence of corruption, and demand accountability from the authorities. These grassroots movements have played a crucial role in unmasking corruption, mobilizing public support, and putting pressure on the government to take action against corrupt practices. Scope of corruption Corruption in Nepal is a multi-faceted problem, permeating both the public and private sectors. It manifests itself in various forms, such as bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, fraud, and abuse of power. From low-level bureaucratic corruption to high-level political corruption, the tentacles of this malpractice have deeply entrenched themselves in the fabric of Nepalese society. The lack of transparent processes, weak accountability mechanisms, and a culture of impunity contributes to the perpetuation of corruption in the country. Corruption poses a significant threat to good governance, a fundamental pillar of a functional democracy. It undermines the rule of law, distorts decision-making processes, and perpetuates social and economic inequalities. When public officials prioritize personal gain over the public interest, it erodes the trust between citizens and the government, leading to disillusionment and cynicism among the population.  Political corruption has also been a persistent problem in Nepal. The nexus between politicians and business interests, vote-buying, and the misuse of public funds are common manifestations of this malaise. Nepali politics, marred by factionalism and a lack of ethical standards, have allowed corruption to flourish. The capture of state institutions by powerful individuals or groups exacerbates the problem, preventing effective checks and balances.  Bureaucratic corruption, characterized by bribery and extortion, continues to undermine service delivery in Nepal. Citizens often encounter demands for illicit payments to access basic services, including healthcare, education, and justice. The lack of transparent procedures and accountability mechanisms within government offices perpetuates this culture of corruption.  Addressing corruption requires a comprehensive approach that includes legal reforms, institutional strengthening, and a cultural shift towards ethical conduct. Nepal has taken some steps to combat corruption, such as enacting laws and establishing anti-corruption bodies. However, more needs to be done to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of these measures.  Engaging citizens in the fight against corruption is vital. Promoting civic education and awareness campaigns can empower individuals to demand accountability from their elected representatives. The media also plays a crucial role in exposing corruption and holding the corrupt accountable.  Unmasking corruption in Nepal is a critical step toward achieving good governance and sustainable development. The fight against corruption requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including citizens, government institutions, civil society organizations, and the international community.  The author is a student of law

Nepal is a small, landlocked country situated between two of the world’s most populous countries, India and China. Nepal had been ruled by a monarchy for centuries, but in 2008, it was declared a federal democratic republic after a decade-long civil war. Since then, Nepal’s relationship with its two powerful neighbors has been a subject of much analysis and discussion. Also the country has been trying to find its place in the regional geopolitical scheme. Nepal’s international relations are largely based on its neighboring countries. India is Nepal’s main trading partner, with most of its exports and imports coming through Indian ports. Despite close ties between Nepal and its bigger neighbors, the country has sought to maintain a foreign policy of equidistance from both India and China. This policy has gained more traction in recent years. This strong economic bond has been further strengthened by centuries-old cultural ties and shared religion. Moreover, New Delhi provides Kathmandu with generous financial assistance for economic development projects.  Historically, Nepal maintained close associations with India and China due to geographical proximity, which meant that they were both key trading partners. But during the monarchy period, China and India both sought to gain geopolitical influence over Nepal. This rivalry between the two nations was a source of tension for the Nepali government, as both countries influenced Nepal’s economy, foreign policies, and overall development.  India and Nepal share a long border of over 1,850 km, and the two countries have a long history of cultural and economic ties. India is Nepal’s largest trading partner, and Nepal relies heavily on India for its supply of essential goods such as fuel and medicine. Nevertheless, since becoming a republic, Nepal’s ties with both India and China have rapidly improved. Nepal and India share an open border, allowing for the free passage of goods and people, while Nepal and China signed an agreement in 2016 to cooperate on a range of issues, including infrastructure and trade. Nepal also participates in major regional organizations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.  However, the relationship between the two countries has been strained in recent years due to various issues, including border disputes, the alleged interference of India in Nepal's internal affairs, and the construction of dams on shared rivers. In 2015, Nepal adopted a new constitution that was seen as discriminatory towards the Madhesis, a community with close ties to India. India responded by imposing an unofficial blockade on goods entering Nepal, causing severe shortages of essential goods and leading to a deterioration of the relationship between the two countries. India and Nepal have strong historical and cultural ties, as they share similar languages, religions and traditional customs. At present, India is Nepal's largest trading partner and donor. India has been involved in various large infrastructure projects in Nepal, such as the construction of the Nepal-India Friendship Bridge, which connects Kathmandu to the Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Apart from economic assistance, India has also given military aid to Nepal in times of need. On the other hand, China has increased its influence in Nepal since 2014, when there was a change of government in favor of the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN). China has provided financial assistance and has invested in many infrastructure projects like the Kathmandu-Pokhara railway. It is also building the China-Nepal cross-border economic cooperation zone, which will increase trade between the two countries. Nepal’s relationship with China has been growing stronger in recent years. China has been investing heavily in Nepal’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and hydropower projects. In 2017, China and Nepal signed a memorandum of understanding to build a trans-Himalayan railway, which would connect Nepal with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. China sees Nepal as an important partner in its Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to connect Asia with Europe and Africa through a network of highways, railways, and ports. However, Nepal’s growing relationship with China has also raised concerns in India. India sees China’s growing presence in Nepal as a threat to its own strategic interests in the region. India has been wary of China's increasing influence in South Asia and has been trying to counter China’s presence by strengthening its own relationship with other countries in the region, including Nepal. Nepal, meanwhile, has been trying to balance its relationships with India and China, both of which are important partners for its economic development. Nepal has maintained that it will not allow its territory to be used against the interests of either of its neighbors. However, Nepal’s delicate position between the two powerful countries has also made it vulnerable to their geopolitical rivalries. In conclusion, Nepal’s relationship with its two neighbors, India and China, is complex and multifaceted. While India remains Nepal’s largest trading partner, China’s growing influence in Nepal’s infrastructure development has been seen as an opportunity for economic growth. Nepal’s challenge is to maintain a delicate balance between the two countries while safeguarding its own interests and sovereignty. As South Asia continues to be a region of geopolitical contestations, Nepal's position between two of the world's most populous countries will remain a subject of much interest and analysis. The author is a student of law