Kathmandu — Tirtha Raj Bhattarai, Mayor of Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality in Khotang, has launched a satyagraha (peaceful protest) demanding the promotion of bamboo and other local products.
Starting Sunday, Mayor Bhattarai began his peaceful protest at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu, accompanied by bamboo and bamboo-made items.
He has expressed concern over the government’s indifference towards promoting bamboo-based products that rely on local resources and skills.
According to Bhattarai, memorandums containing a seven-point demand were submitted to the Prime Minister on Jestha 23 (early June) and Asar 6 (late June), but the government has yet to take any action, compelling him to begin the satyagraha.
Before starting the protest, Bhattarai attempted to circle Singha Durbar carrying traditional bamboo items such as mandro (bamboo mat), gundri, radi, and straw-based goods, but security personnel prevented him from doing so.
He has warned that if the demands are not addressed within three days, he will continue the satyagraha, and if there is still no response, he will begin an indefinite hunger strike.
Bhattarai had arrived in Kathmandu on Shrawan 4 (mid-July) carrying bamboo and traditional materials.
Earlier in the month of Falgun (27 February to 1 March), Khotang hosted the first-ever National Bamboo Conference aimed at promoting bamboo-related industries and handicrafts.
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