Secularism is a noble idea, its main tenet is the separation of religion and state. The state should treat all religions equally and it shouldn't allow religion to be used by a political force to perpetuate itself. Parliament passed a resolution on secularism but doesn't seem to have done enough homework on how to implement this. Because of this, elements opposed to secularism are spreading rumours that this is against Hinduism and could use these rumours to push the country towards communalism. Despite being a Hindu kingdom, secularism has been the character of the Nepali state.
Especially after 1 Feburary 2005, anti-democratic forces have used Hindu fundmentalism to legitimise themselves. The king's ADC was the chairman of the Vishwa Hindu parishad and the entire state apparatus was mobilised for a jamboree in Birganj while the pro-democracy movement was getting underway. The holy men who were brought to Birganj preached that democracy was anti-Hindu. And the king ordered that Rs 5 million be given to Gen Bharat Keshar Simha to organise the meeting.
Because the king used his Hinduness to legitimise this traditional power it was necessary to declare Nepal secular. But this declaration should not be limited to paper. It must be vigilant about Islamic and Christian groups who may try to use religion for political ends. The government hasn't even given the minimum caution against those who may take secularism to mean conversion or disturb communal harmony. Secularism also doesn't mean taking revenge on any particular religion, including Hindusim.
This is also a warning against the Maoists. They shouldn't be hurt religious sentiments of the people by slaughtering cows, demolishing temples setting fire to Sanskrit University. In fact, by being involved in the murder of Hindu social reformer Narayan Prasad Pokhrel, the Maoists have actually allied themselves with the Hindu fundamentalists. By not carrying out self-criticism, the Maoists are helping the anti-secular forces in this country. The government must immediately prohibit organisations that spread religious hatred. It must invest in education that emphasises tolerance and secularism so future generations of Nepalis will grow up with that culture. It's time to put secularism into practice.
