Kunda Dixit's work to expose how every ordinary Nepali in western hills are trapped in a senseless system of so-called 'people fighters' is highly appreciated ('People in the Red Zone', # 219). The story touched us all deeply as it painted an accurate picture of poor Nepalis at a time when the urban-centric and few fortunate enough people were preparing for Dasain. It was shocking to hear that Nepalis in remote parts need to have a special visa to move around in their own district. It seems that the road towards prosperity (which is the right of every individual in democracy) is virtually blocked for a majority of Nepalis. The worst part, however, is that the conflicting parties claim that they are the 'genuine' representatives of the people. People like Jubari Lal Bhattarai and Dirgha Raj Shahi are victims from both sides.

Sameer Ghimire,
Sydney

. Kunda Dixit's chilling and moving account of what the people of Kalikot are going through ('On a knife-edge', #219) is journalism at its best. He has given us the facts straight, without embellishment and without editorialising and in the process has given us, the readers, a first-hand account of what the war means to ordinary Nepalis. It should goad our rulers and revolutionaries to move the peace process forward.

Gopal KC,
Kumaripati