Scholar calls for dozen-odd provinces

HIMALAYAN NEWS SERVICE

NEW DELHI: A noted political scientist has backed UCPN-Maoist’s model of federalism that proposes the division of Nepal into 12-14 provinces. 

Associate Prof Dr Mahendra Lawoti of Western Michigan University, USA said federalism is important for Nepal to get rid of its single ethnicity-dominated political system. If Nepal is to have only 5-6 provinces as advocated by some scholars and political parties, the current Hindu ruling class (Brahmin, Kshetri, Thakuri and Sanyasi) will continue their domination both at the centre and in the provinces, said Dr Lawoti. “Other marginalised groups such as Dalits, Rais, Limbus, Magars and Madhesis will continue to suffer,” he added.

“However, if 12-14 provinces are formed, marginalised groups will be in majority in at least nine provinces,” he said. “This will enable those groups to influence policy at least at the province level, said Dr Lawati at programme titled ‘Federalism and Constitution Making Process in Nepal’ organised by Foreign Students’ Association at Jawaharlal Nehru University. “There is no denying that ethnic groups are scattered all over Nepal, but some are concentrated in certain regions of the country. Stakeholders need to keep that in mind,” he added. Dr Lawati said there was a danger that groups could forge an alliance to clash with the ruling class if marginalised groups are not given a decisive say in provincial matters. 

Dr Lawoti said longitudinal division of the country was against the spirit of federalism. Such division would not be beneficial as different geographical zones have their own set of problems that require unique solutions. On the issue of economic viability of the provinces, Dr Lawati maintained limited resource would increase competition among the provinces to perform better.

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