Travesty of activism

Political actors must find more creative ways than a 'banda' to protest a fuel hike.

Nepal banda is the most unimaginative form of protest, no matter what its driving force may be. When it comes to protesting against the government's decision to hike fuel prices, Nepal banda, which is a general shutdown, is unimaginative and predictable. And yet, Nepal banda presents itself in that same old avatar, no matter who is in government or the opposition. It is the lowest common denominator of Nepali politics, devoid of the capacity to engage in meaningful dialogue about democracy, the rule of law and justice. If there is one thing that seems to revitalise the moribund student politics of Nepal, even if for a few days, it is the hike in gasoline prices. Each time there is a price rise, there is bound to be a strike.