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For me, foraging for ‘katus’ each year was something I eagerly looked forward to. It wasn’t just about the nuts—it was the challenge, the thrill, and the friendly competition with my friends. We were teenagers, full of energy and determination, racing up and down steep slopes in search of the perfect harvest.

The spiky husks of the katus nuts made them tricky to collect. No matter how carefully I tried, the sharp spines always managed to prick through my fingers. We would climb the trees or shake the branches with bamboo poles, sending nuts tumbling to the ground. To catch them, we spread mats beneath the trees, but the steep slopes often caused the nuts to roll away, adding another layer of difficulty to the task. Slipping and sliding down the hillside was inevitable, but it was all part of the fun. We would laugh at each other’s missteps, only to scramble back up and continue the race.

The competition was intense. We rushed to collect the most nuts, and even when someone fell, it was just more reason to laugh. By the end of the day, we were covered in scratches and dirt, but our baskets were full, and we were filled with a sense of accomplishment.

This is my memory of Nepali chestnuts, locally known as katus (Castanopsis indica). Katus is an essential part of the Tihar festival for hill-dwelling Hindus in Nepal.

The katus tree, part of the Fagaceae family that includes oaks and chestnuts, is a medium-sized tree growing eight to 14 meters tall. It has a dense, rounded canopy with thick, leathery evergreen leaves. The tree produces reddish-brown nuts with thin spines, which grow in small clusters. These nuts are highly valued for their nutritional benefits and are a key part of local diets.

The tree flourishes in Nepal’s mid-hill regions, between altitudes of 300 and 1,000 meters above sea level. It prefers well-drained, loamy soil and heavy rainfall, making it a common sight in mixed forests alongside other native species.

Katus nuts are typically foraged from late summer to early autumn, between August and October. The methods used to gather these nuts have been passed down through generations. One of the first steps involves identifying the right trees. Elders taught us how to spot mature, healthy trees that would yield a good harvest. Certain trees were known for producing more fruit, and those were our top priority.

When it came to harvesting, we either climbed the trees or used long bamboo poles to shake the branches and knock down the nuts. To prevent the nuts from rolling down the hill, we would lay mats under the trees to catch them. After the nuts were collected, the next task was sorting and drying. We carefully removed the spiky husks and spread the nuts out in the sun to dry, a process that could take several days.

Katus nuts are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. They are packed with carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Their slightly sweet, nutty flavor makes them a versatile ingredient in Nepali cuisine. Roasted katus nuts are a favorite snack, and they are often used in porridges, stews, and breads. I fondly remember my grandmother roasting the nuts over an open fire. The aroma would fill the air, and we would crack them open with rocks to enjoy them hot.

In addition to their culinary uses, katus nuts are believed to have medicinal properties. They are traditionally used to treat colds, coughs, and digestive problems. The bark of the katus tree is also valuable, often used in tanning and made into poultices to treat skin conditions.

Katus trees, despite their cultural and nutritional value, are facing several challenges. One of the main threats is deforestation and habitat loss due to logging and expanding agricultural activities. This destruction of forests directly impacts the katus trees, reducing their natural habitat. Another significant issue is climate change. Unpredictable weather patterns, irregular rainfall, and temperature changes are affecting the growth and fruiting of these trees.

Additionally, as younger generations move to cities, traditional knowledge about katus foraging is slowly disappearing. This loss of cultural practices could weaken the sustainable harvesting methods that have been passed down for generations.

However, efforts are being made to preserve katus trees and foraging traditions. Local communities, with support from the government and NGOs, are participating in community-based conservation projects. These initiatives involve creating community forests and planting more katus trees to protect their natural habitat. There is also a push to promote katus-based products, which could provide an additional source of income for local people. By developing and marketing these products, it not only encourages conservation efforts but also helps keep the tradition of katus foraging alive.

The author is a UK-based R&D chef

In many legal systems, obstructing justice—which includes acts that prevent the law from being administered properly—is a serious offense. Even though they are frequently linked to well-known situations, not every blockage is obvious. Sometimes a seemingly little action or a "discreet error" might inadvertently result in charges of impeding justice.

Obstruction of justice

Any action that impedes the judicial or law enforcement processes is considered an obstruction of justice. It may entail lying under oath, deleting evidence, manipulating witnesses or taking any other action that prevents inquiries or prosecutions. Such hindrance frequently aims to shield people from legal responsibility or to stop the truth from being discovered.

In the context of obstructing justice, a ‘discreet error’ is an action that may not seem explicitly illegal or deliberate but yet causes justice to be obstructed. These mistakes may be the result of simple oversight, bad judgment or misunderstanding. But the legal repercussions can be as bad as intentional obstruction.

In the digital age, it’s simpler than ever to unintentionally delete information, such as emails or files that could later be seen to be crucial to a case. Even if the deletion was inadvertent, it may be considered obstruction if it is thought to have impeded an inquiry. A person may misremember a crucial element or misunderstand the question while making a testimony to law enforcement or a court, although this is not always done maliciously. If this has a major effect on the case’s result, it may still be considered obstruction. If minor errors in documents, filing delays or paperwork hold down the legal procedure, they may also be considered obstructive.

Actions and consequences

Intent is a key factor in establishing responsibility in discrete mistake situations. Courts frequently take into account whether the person had criminal intent or if the mistake was genuinely unintentional. Even without purpose, though, there might be dire repercussions, particularly if the mistake has a big effect on a case. Criminal records, fines and imprisonment are examples of legal consequences that may have long-term effects on one’s reputation and ability to find work. Furthermore, even if the conduct was an error, the mere charge of obstructing justice can have detrimental effects on one's reputation and career.

The fine line

Imagine that during a regulatory probe, a company leader unintentionally erases a collection of emails. Even if the deletion was unintentional, the executive might be charged with obstructing justice if these emails were pertinent to the inquiry. The court would next have to decide if the deletion was an inconspicuous mistake or a purposeful attempt to hide misconduct. Even if purpose could lessen the seriousness of the accusations, the mistake might still have legal repercussions. This case serves as an example of how a minor error may turn into a major legal problem. Important case laws that have influenced how obstruction of justice is interpreted and used in various legal systems, especially in the US.

US v Nixon (1974)

In this historic case, President Richard Nixon used executive privilege to justify his refusal to make public tapes of discussions that were pertinent to the Watergate scandal. In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court held that the President may not conceal evidence from a criminal inquiry by claiming executive privilege. Because it reaffirmed the idea that everyone is subject to the law, including the president, this ruling had a direct bearing on the obstruction of justice. Regardless of the status of the person involved, the decision showed that attempts to obstruct an inquiry, even by withholding evidence, might be seen as obstruction. (418 US 683)

US v Trump (Ongoing)

In connection with the Mueller investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election, former President Donald Trump is accused of obstructing justice in this case, a case which is still pending and developing. In other cases, including attempts to sway witnesses or restrict the investigation, Trump’s conduct may have amounted to obstruction, according to the Mueller Report. Even though there were no charges during his administration, this case is nonetheless important in the changing definition of obstruction. The case highlights the difficulties in bringing obstruction charges against well-known politicians and calls into question the boundaries of executive authority and responsibility.

Why it matters

To operate efficiently, the legal system depends on the collaboration of all stakeholders, including law enforcement, attorneys, witnesses and defendants. The rule of law is undermined when justice is obstructed, making it more difficult to find the truth and provide just results. When they interfere with an inquiry, even little mistakes can have a significant impact on the public's confidence in the judicial system. To guarantee that no one obstructs the pursuit of justice, regardless of their motivation or status, it is imperative from a legal standpoint to prosecute cases of obstruction of justice. By doing so, accountability is upheld and the correct procedures are followed by all parties participating in judicial proceedings. Even a minor mistake can become a major legal obstruction of justice. Though these mistakes might not be as deliberate as more overt obstruction, they can still have negative effects on people and the legal system overall. Anyone participating in judicial procedures has to understand how important correct and transparent activities are. Both individuals and legal professionals should be mindful that even little, inadvertent mistakes can have serious repercussions, and they should be cautious to refrain from taking any act that can be interpreted as obstructive. Obstruction of justice, whether deliberate or unintentional, jeopardizes the integrity of court processes and ought to be treated with the gravity it merits.

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chairman and former Deputy Prime Minister Rabi Lamichhane has spent 13 days in police custody in Kaski, sparking street protests from his party members and supporters who argue his arrest is politically motivated. They contend Lamichhane is uninvolved in the alleged misappropriation of cooperative funds and that his detention is intended to weaken RSP. Lamichhane, previously a TV show presenter and managing director of Gorkha Media, which owns Galaxy Television, was arrested based on a parliamentary probe into cooperative fund misuse nationwide.

Some cooperative victims have filed cases against Lamichhane in Pokhara and Lumbini. While the parliamentary panel found no direct evidence linking Lamichhane to cooperative fraud, it noted substantial cooperative funds had flowed into Gorkha Media, where Lamichhane holds a minor share and acted as managing director. Police are investigating him on charges of cooperative fraud, money laundering, and organized crime. Reports indicate JB Rai, a key figure connected to the case, is in communication with state authorities, signaling his willingness to return to Nepal and assist in the investigation.

The Rupandehi court has permitted police to arrest Lamichhane for further inquiry, suggesting that the process may extend, particularly given the money laundering charges. Lamichhane’s lawyers argue that his role as managing director of Gorkha Media does not inherently imply misappropriation, emphasizing that his lack of direct involvement in cooperatives exempts him from fraud charges. Meanwhile, RSP leaders claim Lamichhane’s arrest is part of a broader political agenda to hinder RSP’s influence, which critics view as an attempt to interfere with judicial processes through public protests and pressure on the government. They are also said to be in talks with the ruling parties to make an environment for his release stating that investigation can be continued even after freeing him.

Lamichhane, who transitioned from popular television host to political leader, founded RSP in 2022. His efforts to advocate for Nepali migrant workers and expose corruption earned him substantial public support, propelling his party to become the fourth-largest in the House of Representatives with 21 seats. 

Growing public dissatisfaction against major political parties—Nepali Congress, CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Center)—also helped the party. Initially, RSP had few prominent faces aside from Lamichhane, but figures like Swarnim Wagle have since joined, expanding the party's profile.

Lamichhane’s political career was hit by one controversy after another right from the beginning. Soon after he was elected to the House of Representatives and became Minister for Home Affairs, the legality of his citizenship came into question. He was also accused of holding dual passports. He lost his parliament seat over his citizenship controversy and had to re-contest the election from Chitwan, which he won comfortably.  The issue of his citizenship has already been resolved but the one relating to his alleged dual passport still remains.

Lamichhane’s arrest over cooperative fraud has polarized public opinion. Some view it as a necessary legal action following parliamentary recommendations, while others see it as an orchestrated attack by established parties seeking to stymie RSP’s rise. RSP leaders highlight inconsistencies in enforcement, citing the government’s reluctance to arrest figures linked to cooperative fraud within the ruling coalition, such as Dhana Raj Gurung from Nepali Congress and others associated with CPN-UML. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli noted that 600 arrests have been made in connection with cooperative fraud, though RSP claims selective enforcement targeting Lamichhane alone is politically driven.

The 2022 general elections and subsequent by-elections indicated that RSP could pose a significant threat to the three major parties. But whether Lamichane’s arrest could benefit the party or affect its popularity remains unknown. Already, there are concerns that if Lamichhane gets convicted, the party could face a political setback. RSP is yet to build its organizational structure, particularly at the local level. The party has solely relied on its popularity as an alternative political force against the old parties to win votes. 

Now amid Lamichhane’s prolonged detention, his party is concerned by signals indicating his potential detention until the Chhath festival. RSP leaders say this extension represents systematic harassment and misuse of state resources. The Kaski District Government Attorney's Office will decide whether to formally charge Lamichhane based on the ongoing police investigation. If charged, he would face suspension from his parliamentary seat and trials in Rupandehi and Chitwan for alleged involvement in cooperative fraud.

The RSP has adopted a dual strategy of mobilizing street protests and engaging in dialogues with other political entities to secure Lamichhane’s release. They have organized a protest coordination committee led by Vice-chairman Dol Prasad Aryal, alongside a political-civic dialogue committee headed by Wagle, to build alliances with like-minded parties, civil society, and the public. Although RSP’s constitution allows its vice-chairpersons to manage operations in Lamichhane’s absence, internal confusion over shared responsibilities has prevented the appointment of an acting president.

With RSP claiming retaliatory state actions against their leader, they continue to press for his release, advocating for an investigation that respects due process while cautioning against a selective legal approach that could undermine public trust.

Mental health is not just the absence of mental illness. It encompasses overall well-being that allows individuals to work effectively, manage stress, and contribute to their communities. Workplace stressors, such as excessive workload, bullying, and harassment can significantly harm mental health. This is especially true in high-pressure fields like healthcare, where long hours and emotional strain increase the risk of burnout.

Globally, depression affects 264m people. It’s one of the leading causes of disability. Depression and anxiety disorders together cost the global economy approximately $1trn annually in lost productivity. In demanding professions like healthcare, workplace stressors exacerbate these challenges, negatively impacting those responsible for caring for others.

In one of the studies from Nepal, it was found that the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted significant mental health challenges in the workplace. The same study found that 86 percent of respondents reported moderate stress levels, and 5.2 percent experienced high stress. Additionally, 24.6 percent of participants screened positive for anxiety, while 33.3 percent showed signs of depression. Poor sleep affected 17.5 percent of individuals, and 15.8 percent noted a decrease in their work efficiency.

These findings point to a critical need for regular stress management programs in the workplace.

The stress and mental health issues faced by corporate employees underscore the importance of addressing workplace conditions. A toxic work environment can lead to physical and mental health problems, substance abuse, absenteeism, and reduced productivity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), promoting mental health in the workplace and providing support to employees can reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and contribute to economic benefits.

Excessive workloads, long hours, and administrative burdens often leave professionals, particularly doctors, with little time to rest and recover. This ongoing pressure can lead to burnout, diminished job satisfaction, and an increased risk of mistakes. Similarly, toxic workplace behaviors, such as bullying and harassment, contribute significantly to poor mental health. These issues, often unaddressed, can lead to anxiety, depression, and even cause professionals to leave their jobs. This not only affects individual well-being but also disrupts team dynamics and reduces the quality of work.

On the other hand, maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is essential for well-being but is particularly challenging in demanding careers. Professionals often struggle to find time for rest, family, or hobbies, which further contributes to stress and burnout. However, achieving a balance is possible through regular exercise, meditation, and setting clear boundaries between work and personal time.

Maintaining mental health, especially in high-stress industries, requires both individual and organizational efforts. Prioritizing mental health by taking regular breaks, engaging in hobbies, and seeking therapy when necessary can help prevent burnout. Professionals must learn to set boundaries to avoid overwork, such as turning off work emails after hours or taking vacations. Organizations should create environments where employees feel safe discussing mental health without fear of judgment. Access to mental health resources, flexible work hours, and peer support networks are crucial for maintaining a healthy work environment.

The theme for World Mental Health Day 2024 is ‘It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace’. This theme emphasizes the urgent need for businesses, governments, and individuals to take action to improve mental well-being in professional settings. With over 60 percent of the global population engaged in employment, the workplace has a significant impact on mental health, both positively and negatively.

This year’s campaign focuses on fostering supportive, stigma-free environments where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. Mental health in the workplace is a crucial factor for maintaining a productive and engaged workforce. By addressing stress, bullying, and promoting a healthy work-life balance, organizations and employees can work together to create a supportive environment that fosters well-being and success.

The author is a psychiatrist