Former President Bhandari commends Dalit's role in nation-building

Kathmandu, June 1: Former President Bidyadevi Bhandari asserted that the contributions made by the Dalit community throughout Nepal's history, from the national unification campaign to the present day, are highly commendable.     

Speaking at the second national convention of the National Dalit Journalists Association here today, former President Bhandari recalled the historical figure, Bise Nagarchi, a local tailor and musician who had provided invaluable counsel to King Prithivi Narayan Shah during the latter's Nepal unification bid.     

Bhandari acknowledged that the farsightedness, dedication and hardwork of the Dalit community have made significant contributions to nation building.     

"The Dalit community has, since historical times, played a constructive role in laying the foundation for the dissemination of public information. Its contribution is incomparable!" she lauded.     

She also highlighted the traditional role of the Dalit community in communication and information sharing. "Since the era of the Katuwal system, members of the Dalit community have carried messages and public information across villages and settlements through songs and the melodies of the Sarangi."     

Expressing concern over the low representation of Dalits in journalism, Bhandari noted that their participation in the sector stands at around five percent.     

The former Head of the State also called for ensuring greater inclusivity in the media sector.     

She also reaffirmed her solidarity with efforts aimed at securing justice, equality, and human dignity for the Dalit community.     

Describing journalism as a powerful instrument of social transformation, Bhandari emphasized the importance of introducing special programmes to strengthen the capacity of Dalit journalists, encourage their participation in investigative reporting, and ensure their physical and mental well-being and security.(RSS)