The devastation caused by the recent earthquake in Nepal is still fresh in our memory. More than 8,800 people are dead and thousands have been injured. Many countries including India have sent in their help into this impoverished nation, but the massive reconstruction needed is still a daunting task. However, the behavior of Indian media and our government has been the most shocking. Operation Maitri, the rescue effort by our National Disaster Response Force, which was hyped up the Indian media, has left a bitter taste in Nepal.
After the first week of rescue efforts, the message trending on Nepal’s social media was “#GoHomeIndianMedia”. As quoted by BBC, the Indian media’s “shrillness, jingoism, exaggerations, and sometimes mistakes in coverage” has disgusted the host community. Our media’s main story was not the suffering of the Nepali people, but the generosity of the Indian government!
Whenever we extend a helping hand to someone, we are not supposed to thump our chest and claim credit. Our benefactors have to acknowledge our help and they hold the right to give credit. Let’s not be so shameful to spread self-congratulatory messages, while other countries have also done a great job in Nepal.
One look at the children of Nepal shows the dire state of affairs in that poor country. Years of civil war and government apathy have resulted in pathetic conditions for the young generation. During our visit in 2007, when Nepal became a people’s republic we were touched by the kind hearted nature of the people and hardworking child labourers. On the World Day Against Child Labour, we need to look at ways to help these poor souls. I feel these pictures speak more powerful than my words –
Early morning, Jack went down the hill to fetch pail of water
The innocent smiles of these children are truly endearing
The innocent smiles of these children are truly endearing
Never seen more hardworking child labourers than these!
Poor children play around rich cultural heritage sites
Street smarts roam the streets of Kathmandu carrying a pet on shoulders
Pride possession carried away zealously
Seeking blessings at the Manakamana Mandir
Dirty slippers become a toy to chew!
Children are no doubt a photographer’s delight
No age limit for daredevilry!
Early morning tuitions – a rare sight in rural areas
The joyous exuberance of children despite their poverty is touching
Sharing is caring and every drop matters!
Images
Levine Lawrence
Nagaraj D.H
