As a Nepali citizen of Tibetan origin, I have seen our government showing growing intolerance towards Tibetans living in Nepal. At last week's Tibetan New Year police tried to stop the celebrations at Baudhanath. While in the past the government has bowed to pressure from China to curtail political activities of Tibetans, this is the first time they have tried to stop a cultural New Year's celebration. Activities such as tossing barely flour in the air, dances, Buddhist prayers and rituals, speeches by prominent members of the Tibetan community, and the installation of a temporary shrine with the Dalai Lama's photo displayed were forbidden.

It is very disheartening that we have to face such treatment in a democratic Nepal. In the last few months even traditional dances in schools and halls have been called off. What harm can a dance do? I sincerely hope that the government will be more tolerant in future and change its attitude. We have lived in peace in Nepal and there is no reason to harass us when we are celebrating a cultural event.

Tenzing Jigme Tuladhar
Kathmandu