When parliament in Kathmandu passed an amendment to the constitution granting better representation and adjusting electoral constituencies to reflect population, many here thought the blockade at the Indian border would finally be lifted after five months.
But Madhesi leaders say the amendments do not go far enough, and they have continued their sit-in at no-man’s land. However, cold and fatigue have taken their toll and the presence of the protesters is visibly reduced.
Madhesi leaders also seem to be divided over whether to continue with the border obstruction, or to change their tactics. Mahendra Raya Yadav of the Madhesi Front appeared to sense that the public mood in the plains is changing and people are fed up with the disruptions. But hardline Madhesi leaders feel the blockade is working and it should continue until the Big Three in Kathmandu agree to re-demarcate provincial borders.
The gulf between Madhesi leaders and the Madhesi public about the border obstruction seems to be widening. Till a month ago, most people on the streets of this border town that depends on trade with India would not speak out for fear of repercussion, particularly from Madhesi parties. But they are now so fed up, they are more than willing to speak on camera.
Suresh Bidari in Birganj
PICS: SURESH BIDARI
Amar Kishor Yadav, sidewalk vendor
Everything has its limit, but this protest has no limit at all. It has dragged on for too long, and I will not survive if this goes on. Madhesi leaders do not care about people like me. And is there even a government here?
Ajaj Dewan, driver
Do our leaders care if we live or die? Ordinary people like us are made to suffer every time there is a strike. I sometimes feel like defying the strike and chasing away the protesters, but I can’t risk my family’s wellbeing.
Bindeshwor Das, cart puller
These protesters say they are fighting for our rights. Are they? Why are they preventing me from pulling a cart? How will I survive? Political leaders only use us to get to power, then they forget us.
Hemanta Patel, trader
This is the third time the Madhesi people have risen up against Kathmandu. But what did ordinary Madhesis like me get? Nothing. I wonder if we made a mistake by getting rid of the monarchy. Instead of one king, we now have many kings fighting each other.