Thank you for your letter championing democracy in Nepal

Dear Congressman Walsh,

Thank you for your letter championing democracy in Nepal.

We the undersigned Nepalis, members of Nepali diaspora and friends of Nepal would like to express our sincere gratitude to you and the other Congressmen who signed the letter to King Gyanendra sending him a clear message that there is no alternative to reversal of the February 1 royal takeover and restoration of Nepals democratic rule and the basic rights of its citizens.

We fully concur with your determination that only political negotiations with the Maoists can bring sustainable peace in Nepal, and such negotiations must occur with full participation of the political parties and leadership outside the Kings cabinet. The curtailing of basic human freedom is not an acceptable path, not even in the pretext of peace, not to the Nepali citizenry, nor the Nepali diaspora nor the friends of Nepal in the international community.

Furthermore, we would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge that your symbolic and sincere calling to late King Birendra gave a profound impetus to Nepals historic movement in 1990 for restoration of multi-party parliamentary democracy in the country. We are also aware of your sponsorship of the trade bill proposing Nepali ready-made garments a duty-free entrance to the US market. This is an industry that once made up a quarter of the countrys exports and employed more than fifty thousand people. The largest employer of women, so-called untouchables and other socially marginalized people in Nepal, the industry also acted as the gender and ethnic equalizer.

As a champion of political and economic causes for Nepal, you will already be aware that multi-party democracy had ushered in a vibrant civil society, allowing individuals freedom to express their views and pursue their dreams. Democracy also led to economic liberalization resulting in a thriving private sector, and strong economic growth. People of Nepal and the diaspora are deeply grateful for your personal and professional commitment to Nepals causes.

We hope to rely upon your continued support and leadership in the struggle for a peaceful and democratic Nepal.