Political parties urged to be sensitive on issues of LGBTIQ community
The political parties have been urged to be more sensitive regarding the issues of the sexual and gender minority community.
Speakers at a program organized by the Blue Diamond Society here on Tuesday complained that the LGBTIQ people have been deprived of their fundamental rights due to the delay in making the laws.
Lawmaker and Rastriya Swatantra Party leader Sobita Gautam called on all the political parties to be sensitive for providing the civil rights stipulated in the constitution. She said there should not be politicization in the Parliament, the law-making body, on the issue of endorsing the bill related to gender inclusion.
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Lily Thapa stressed on ending all forms of discrimination for ensuring social justice, equality and human rights in society.
Under-Secretary at the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Ramhari Gaire informed the program that the Ministry has recognized its responsibility for making laws and was working to that end by formulating the annual action plan.
Society president Pinky Gurung complained that the state was not serious regarding implementation of laws drafted for the identity and rights of the LGBTIQ community.
Police open fire to detain alleged drug peddler in Lalitpur
Police on Tuesday afternoon opened fire to take an alleged drug peddler under control at Thadodhunga in Jhamsikhel of Lalitpur.
SP Rabindra Regmi who is also the spokesperson of the Valley Crime Investigation Office said that Abhinas Rai (45) was shot and taken under control after he tried to attack the police personnel at around 1 pm today.
Rai, who sustained injuries on his right leg, is undergoing treatment at the Trauma Center, he said.
Police said that they have recovered a pistol, two rounds of its bullets and drugs from his possession.
Further investigation into the incident is underway, said police.
Women pilots unite, breaking barriers and soaring skyward
In the heart of the Himalayas, where the mountains touch the sky, 99’s Section Nepal of the Ninety-Nines organization stands testament to the resilience of women in aviation. The recent ‘Wings of Friendship’ event from 5-8 Dec 2023, was more than a celebration of flight; it was a profound commitment to empowerment beyond the cockpit. Emerging as a vibrant chapter, 99’s Section Nepal catalyzes change, tirelessly advancing women’s presence in aviation and championing initiatives in education, safety, cultural exploration, and gender diversity across Nepali communities.
Actively engaging in impactful initiatives, 99’s Section Nepal provides scholarships in Karnali province, conducts teacher training programs in the western region, enhances safety through Euroguard installation at Surkhet Airport, organizes diverse fundraising events, facilitates interaction programs with Air Traffic Control and pilots, and offers Meteorological and performance classes. Each initiative reflects the chapter's holistic commitment to empowering women in aviation and fostering a supportive and knowledgeable community.
In the event’s final days, participants immersed in a blend of aviation excitement and cultural discovery, with a Dec 5 hike and a bus trip to Panauti showcasing 99’s Section Nepal’s holistic empowerment approach. Cultural immersion continued in Bhaktapur on Dec 7, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of empowerment. The pivotal December 8th meeting, graced by Deputy Mayor Sunita Dongol, shared poignant stories of challenges faced by women pilots, nodding to resilience and determination.
Beyond accolades, 99’s Section Nepal believes everyone, regardless of gender or appearance, has the right to serve and soar. The sentiment shared during the general meeting echoes: It doesn’t matter if it’s the cockpit or the kitchen; judgment based on gender or appearance has no place. Every individual has the right to fly, serve, and be recognized for their abilities, not stereotypes.
In the spirit of celebration, 99’s Section Nepal empowers women at every stage, creating an atmosphere where every achievement is recognized, and every individual is uplifted. As we share these moments of camaraderie, celebration, and empowerment, 99’s Section Nepal invites readers to join the journey. Breaking barriers within our communities, the organization fosters a world where every woman can navigate her own destiny. The recent events from 5-8 Dec 2023, epitomize this commitment, showcasing that empowerment knows no boundaries, and the skies are just the beginning.
“Sky is not the limit; it’s just the view from your cockpit. So, spread your wings and soar beyond, for in the vast expanse of the sky, every dream finds its flight.”
Cold affects life in Manang, mercury dips to minus 18 degrees Celsius
The temperature in the mountainous Manang district is on the decline to the point of minus 16 degrees Celsius in the second week of December, affecting life.
Average temperature in the morning went from minus eight to 10 degrees Celsius, and around minus 18 degrees Celsius at night, said Chief District Officer Subas Kumar Lamichhane. Chame and surrounding areas recorded from minus 16 to 18 degree Celsius, he said.
"Tap and river water have frozen due to the cold. The road is covered with snow, limiting traffic. There is difficulty in managing drinking water," he said.
As a result, people have been affected in many ways ranging from the closure of infrastructure development.
Issuing a notice, Chame Rural Municipality has urged the concerned authorities to halt the supply of construction materials like cement among others. Cold has prompted the rural municipality to disrupt the supply of construction materials, said the rural municipality acting chief administrative officer Nama Narayan Malla. "There is increasing cold prompting the halt of the transport of construction materials," said Jaya Bista, chief of the infrastructure office, Manang.
Notwithstanding, the local people have started leaving the villages to escape the chilling cold. Closure of schools and educational institutions has facilitated their temporary migration. Lamjung, Kathmandu and Pokhara are preferable places for them to live during the winter.
Following the temporary migration of the local people, two police beats at Narpabhumi Rural Municipality have been relocated to Chame, the district headquarters, from where they are offering services, said CDO Lamichhane.



