Bibesksheel Sajha Chair Mishra proposes scrapping federalism, referendum on secularism

KATHMANDU: Chairman of Bibeksheel Sajha Party Rabindra Mishra has proposed abolishing federalism and holding a referendum on secularism.

Releasing a concept paper titled ‘Changing Course’ for debate and discussion Monday, Mishra advocated for scrapping of the federal setup citing references that it is ill-suited to Nepal from political, economic or geo-political point of view. He also emphasized restructuring and strengthening local levels.

On religion, Mishra wrote, “In principle, individuals have ‘faith’ but a state does not, because the state is common to all. A state cannot give primacy and identity to one group of citizens and deny the same to another group.”

He further added, “Conversion based on an individual’s free choice had not been forbidden in the past and should not be forbidden in future. But acts of proselytization through force or trickery or inappropriate incitements had been forbidden in the past and should be forbidden in future, too. Otherwise, this can destroy Nepal’s historic identity and harm the society.”

“Therefore, the people should get the opportunity to decide on whether Nepal should remain a secular nation,” the concept paper stated.