kathmandu –— Shankar Lama, a leader of the CPN (Maoist Centre) from Dolakha district, expressed deep concern over class-based discrimination against families of martyrs during the 23rd Botle Martyrs’ Day event at the party’s central office in Paris Danda on Sunday.
Lama highlighted unequal recognition between families of influential leaders and ordinary citizens who have lost loved ones as martyrs. “Whenever families of prominent leaders lose someone, they are commemorated annually, but the sacrifices of ordinary citizens’ families often go unnoticed,” he said. Lama added that comprehensive documentation of all martyrs nationwide could help bring peace to families and strengthen the party.
Speaking to the party leadership, Lama also pointed to growing factionalism within the Maoist Centre, which is affecting martyr families negatively. He recalled the Botle incident on August 4, 2002 (Sawan 18, 2059 BS), when 15 Maoist activists were killed by royal security forces, including Lama’s wife.
Lama criticized the labeling of those who fought for change as perpetrators while those responsible for violence are sometimes viewed as heroes. His emotional appeal called for the party to reconsider its stance toward martyr families.
Lama emphasized the need for unity within the party and equal treatment of all martyr families. He said the event aimed to raise awareness among party leaders, hoping justice and respect for martyrs and the injured will be ensured to strengthen the party’s core values.
