In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Jajarkot and Rukum West on November 3, it is disheartening to hear tales of discrimination and neglect among those affected. As the dust settles and the aftershocks continue to rattle the very foundation of these communities, the cry for relief grows louder, particularly from those residing in rented rooms who feel abandoned in their time of need. The plight of one of the victims, Ramita Thapa, in Jajarkot, is emblematic of the struggles faced by many in the aftermath of the earthquake. Fleeing her collapsing home with her children, she now resides under a tarpaulin tent on the side of the road. Her plight is not unique; countless others in Jajarkot and Rukum West find themselves in similar circumstances, grappling with mental trauma and homelessness. What compounds this tragedy is the reports of discrimination in relief distribution. Milan Chadara of Bheri Municipality-3 voices the frustration of those living in rented rooms, stating that relief materials are seemingly reserved for homeowners. This disparity is pushing already vulnerable individuals and families to the brink, leaving them exposed to the elements without the essential support needed to rebuild their lives.
It is deeply concerning that, even after six days since the disaster, some survivors are yet to receive basic necessities like tarpaulin. The government's response, particularly in turning away those from rented houses seeking aid, is not only unjust but also exacerbates the suffering of those already reeling from the earthquake's impact. Milan Chadara's account of being turned away when seeking a tarpaulin at the local ward office is a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform in relief distribution policies. The fact that individuals like Ganesh Thapa had to personally approach the Chief District Officer for assistance speaks volumes about the systemic shortcomings in the current approach to providing aid. The revelation that names of eligible persons for relief were collected but not included in the distribution lists is disheartening. In times of crisis, bureaucracy should not stand as a barrier between those in need and the help they require. The government bodies responsible for relief distribution must reassess their methods to ensure that no deserving individual is left out.
The earthquake of 6.4 magnitude has not only physically shaken these districts but has also impeded their development trajectory. As the communities struggle to rebuild, it is imperative that the government takes swift and decisive action to rectify the current disparities in relief distribution. The neighboring district of Rukum West echoes the same grievances, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and inclusive relief strategy. The government must rise above bureaucratic hurdles and act decisively to ensure that relief materials reach every affected soul, regardless of whether they own or rent their homes. The government bodies concerned must heed this urgent call for action. The people of Jajarkot and Rukum West, traumatized and displaced, deserve equal access to relief materials. It is not only a matter of humanitarian concern but also a test of our collective responsibility to stand united in the face of adversity. The time for change is now, and it begins with ensuring that no voice goes unheard and no hand is left empty in these trying times.