Prachanda: Crisis on national independence, let's celebrate festivals frugally

Nepal Communist Party coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has said a crisis is visible over the country's national independence.

In a video message issued on Sunday, he urged people to celebrate this year's festivals in a frugal manner. He said it would be appropriate to celebrate the festivals simply given the extensive damage caused by the Bhotekoshi flood.

Prachanda also noted that people have again had to bear the burden of inflation for various reasons. Calling Dashain a symbol of the victory of truth over falsehood, he said Nepalis traditionally attach new hopes and expectations to this festival.

He linked this theme of truth versus falsehood to democracy and the republic, against the irregularities, degeneration, anarchy and authoritarian tendencies seen in society.

Meanwhile, Prachanda urged everyone to take part in the rescue, relief and safety of those affected by the flood in the Budhigandaki river in Gorkha. Through social media, he requested citizens living from Budhigandaki to the banks of the Trishuli to take extreme precaution.

The flood, which came with debris, caused damage to concrete bridges, suspension bridges, houses and market areas in Chumnubri, Dharche and Arughat among other areas. In some places, bridges and houses were swept away. He called for unity in supporting affected citizens in this hour of disaster.