The Hindu : International : Ritual funds row sparks protests

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International

Ritual funds row sparks protests

Prerana Marasini

KATHMANDU: The governments decision to reduce the funds provided to conduct Indra Jatra and Dashain - important Hindu festivals - has been opposed by the Newar community, with protests being held for the second day.

Several places in the Kathmandu Valley remained tense on Sunday. Constituent Assembly members also criticised the decision to slash the annual budget provided for these festivals.

Responding to their complaints, Finance Minister Baburam Bhattarai, who presented the Rs. 236-billion budget last week, requested them not to politicise the event. “Our suggestion was only to celebrate the festivals in a more scientific and economical way, he said. The government had decided not to release funds for animal sacrifices.

Protests erupted soon after the budget was delivered. The protesters want an apology from Mr. Bhattarai. “We cant accept governments decision that disregards our culture, a protester belonging to the Newar community told The Hindu, adding: “Something that is being celebrated for more than 1,400 years now should not be disregarded in one day.

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