In a strong statement released on the social networking site X (formerly Twitter), a well-known doctor, sportsman, and public figure, Dr. Sandesh Lamsal, has called for calm and medical readiness in front of the expected large-scale political protests in the capital. His tweet, which has received a lot of attention, was a direct message to the leadership of Nepal’s main political parties, asking them to make sure that both residents and demonstrators are safe during theupcoming demonstrations tomorrow.
Dr. Lamsal’s concerns are indicative of an increasing fear of possible violence and public disturbance as political factions in Kathmandu organise protests and power displays. In his tweet, he underlined the need to uphold order and urged everyone to refrain from unnecessary conflicts that might end up causing harm and destruction.
“यो बादी र त्यो बादीको बिल्ला बोकी भोलि काठमाडौँमा आन्दोलन तथा शक्ति प्रदर्शनका विभिन्न कार्यक्रमहरूको आयोजना हुने भएछन् । सकेसम्म शान्तिपूर्ण तरिकाले सबै मिलेर गएर यसरी नेपाली जनतालाई एकआपसमा नजुधाएको भए हुने थियो । तर अब घोषणा भइसकेपछि भोलि कतिका टाउका फुट्ने होलान् भने कतिका हातखुट्टा भाँचिन सक्नेछन् । यसको जिम्मेवारी कसले लिने? जसले जे प्रदर्शन गरे पनि कृपया भोलि कसैले समयमा उपचार नपाएर आफ्नो ज्यान अथवा शरीरका अङ्ग गुमाउन नपरोस्।”
Dr. Lamsal empathises with the fact that both the supporters and opponents of these proposed massive movements and political organisers must be held accountable if anything unexpected happens tomorrow. Nepal’s political landscape has often been marked by passionate protests, some of which have escalated into violent confrontations between the different groups of demonstrators or with the security forces. This kind of turmoil has serious medical repercussions since hospitals and emergency services are unable to cope with the surge of casualties.
Aware of this grim reality, Dr. Lamsal issued a heartfelt appeal to all parties concerned, requesting them to put the public’s physical health first by making arrangements to ensure emergency response teams, ambulances, medical personnel, and first-aid supplies at the protest locations.
“जसले जे प्रदर्शन गरे पनि कृपया भोलि कसैले समयमा उपचार नपाएर आफ्नो ज्यान अथवा शरीरका अङ्ग गुमाउन नपरोस् ।”
Dr. Lamsal went a step further and offered his personal commitment to voluntary medical assistance in an unprecedented demonstration of generosity. In order to ensure proper medical provisions, he recommended political leaders to consult with medical professionals close to their political parties. Also, Dr. Lamsal has offered his own readiness to contribute voluntarily in case those doctors couldn’t be present for these protesters.
“आफ्ना पार्टीका शुभचिन्तक डाक्टर साबहरूलाई सम्पर्क गर्न नबिर्सिनु होला । यदि, उहाँहरूले तपाईँहरूको अनुरोध स्वीकार नगरेमा मलाई सम्पर्क गर्न सक्नुहुनेछ । म तपाईँहरूको आन्दोलनको समर्थनका लागि भन्दा पनि हाम्रा नेपाली दाजुभाई तथा दिदीबहिनीहरूलाई तपाईँहरूको आन्तरिक लडाईको शिकार हुन नदिन निशुल्क तथा स्वस्फुर्त रूपमा श्रमदान गर्न तयार छु ।”
A Call for Responsible Political Engagement
The critical need for political maturity and accountability among Nepal’s leadership is highlighted by Dr. Lamsal’s remark. His statement urges political groups to think about the societal impacts of their actions and to take preventative actions to avoid unnecessary suffering.
These incidents frequently draw attention to the absence of enough medical strategies, which delays many seriously injured people from receiving prompt care. Dr. Lamsal’s plea clarifies this persistent problem and provides a workable solution that prioritises preparation and consideration over political rivalry.
Although his effort has received a lot of appreciation, several political observers have questioned if Nepal’s highly fractured political environment would respond to his appeal. Will party leaders accept accountability and provide proper medical help during their rallies? Or will his appeal be ignored, exposing protesters to the same risks as prior demonstrations?
A Voice Beyond Medicine
Dr. Sandesh Lamsal’s message is yet another example of his multi-faceted influence. He garnered a reputation as a compassionate individual who isn’t hesitant to discuss national concerns. Dr. Lamsal is well-known for his contributions to philanthropy, sports, medicine, and social media. His involvement in public affairs further solidifies his position as a humanitarian and supporter of the welfare of Nepal, besides his profession as a doctor.
His appeal is still expected to serve as a spark for sound political participation as Kathmandu prepares for the scheduled protests. One thing is certain, though: Dr. Lamsal has once again used his privilege to fight for the safety and well-being of his fellow citizens, emphasising that leadership comprises more than mere politics. It will soon be known whether political parties choose to adhere to his recommendation.
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