Kathmandu, 17th Sept -In a move laden with both symbolism and grief, the government has declared September 17 a national holiday to commemorate the Gen-Z protesters who lost their lives in recent demonstrations. Officials described the decision as a tribute to the courage and sacrifices made by young citizens who demanded change, often at unbearable personal cost.
The declaration comes at a delicate moment. With the nation inching toward recovery, and the festive season of Dashain and Tihar approaching, the timing of yet another public holiday has sparked mixed responses. For many, it serves as a poignant reminder that the freedoms enjoyed during times of celebration were secured by those who stood unflinching in the face of injustice. For others, the clustering of holidays—amid ongoing economic strain—raises questions about governance, productivity, and priorities.
Still, the spirit of remembrance overshadows cynicism. The voices of the departed echo in the streets they once marched, urging the country not merely to mourn, but to rebuild with resolve. Their memory now stands woven into the nation’s calendar, ensuring their cause is not forgotten in the rush of festivals or the distractions of long vacations.
As the nation gathers for rituals of both grief and celebration, one truth Echos:
Though darkness weighed heavy, the dawn is nearer.