Kathmandu, 5 May: It is often said that where the tree is heavy with fruit, there is more trouble around that tree. This is true for Kathmandu’s Mayor Balen Shah. For years, Balen has transformed the city, not only making it beautiful but also eradicating illegal businesses that had taken over public spaces. He stopped traders from occupying the sidewalks (footpaths) and imposed regulations. Additionally, he shut down the illegal activities of party affiliates who had been making crores by constructing illegal houses and shacks on government land.
While working against political corruption and improving the education system in the city, Balen implemented a new education policy in the municipality. He cracked down on education mafias, who were profiting from the education sector by opening expensive private schools and using government schools as political tools.
Balen never claimed that the problem of squatters (illegal settlers) was his issue, but he had always said that if the state had to provide land to these citizens—whose homes were scattered across various parts of the city—the government must help. However, the central government, driven by political interests, mobilized party affiliates against Balen. As a result, Balen was forced to deploy bulldozers to clear illegal settlements in various areas of the city.
Along with improving education, Balen also focused on skills development for students. Every Friday, skill-based training sessions such as sewing, plumbing, and electronics were held in schools across the metropolis, promoting practical skills for students.
Balen Shah has carried out numerous exemplary actions that the central government of this country has failed to do. Due to constant interference from political party leaders in the decisions of the metropolitan city, even the decisions made in Singhadurbar, the seat of government, were influenced. Balen was forced to make decisions where he would not back down.
Were the steps taken by Balen against the citizens of the city and his decisions really wrong? Is it because of his actions that political parties and their youth wings are attacking him? Is raising such issues really a crime on Balen’s part? In his efforts to protect national identity and culture, Balen was even summoned to court over the “Adhi Purush” issue.
If Balen has truly acted in the best interest of the country and its people, then we must stand in support of his actions. Otherwise, Balen should be expelled from the country. He showed compassion to the people and warned citizens about what is wrong. Balen raised awareness, warned against corruption, and encouraged people to speak up against wrongdoers and traitors to the nation.
Author: Dipesh Shrestha, Managing Director of Suchana Chautari Dot Com
