A joint program was organized on Thursday, 9^th Ashoj 2082 by Khwopa Engineering College and Khwopa College of Engineering, run by Bhaktapur Municipality, to exchange greetings on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami, Deepawali, and Chhath Festival 2082.

Addressing the program, Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality and Chairman of College Management Committee, Mr. Sunil Prajapati, emphasized that since offices, colleges, schools, and other institutions remain closed during the Dashain festival, the holiday period should be utilized as an opportunity for learning and self-development. He expressed his hope that intellectuals would use the festive break to read new books and contribute to raising public awareness.

He further urged all to remain vigilant against unruly activities and social disorder during the festive season. He highlighted the importance of maintaining health, hygiene, and discipline while celebrating festivals in a harmonious spirit.

Stating that individuals who are supposed to be accountable to the nation are themselves irresponsible towards it, he remarked that this has created frustration among the youth toward politics. He explained that the ongoing political situation has made it clear that “politics is not like following a blueprint designed by an engineer, but like walking on the edge of a sword, highly risky.”

Referring to the destructive incidents in the country on Ashoj 23 and 24, he said such unrest was the result of the younger generation’s anger against the ruling parties. He noted that protests are not unusual, but stressed that the true significance lies in the purpose and achievements of any protest movement.

Pointing out that imperialist investments often conceal vested interests, he emphasized the need for patriotic and justice-loving citizens to remain alert and organized. He warned that Western powers are attempting to turn Nepal into a colony through the so-called Gen-Z movement.

Calling the arson and vandalism of key institutions, including Singha Durbar, the Parliament building, the Supreme Court, the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, police posts, and other offices, a tragic incident, he remarked that widespread discussions suggest foreign powers were also involved in the formation of the interim government that emerged after the Gen-Z movement.

Deputy Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality and Vice Chairman of the College Management Committee, Ar. Rajani Joshi stated that the unimaginable and unexpected incidents of Ashoj 23 and 24 inflicted heavy loss of lives and property. She said the events reflected the youth’s anger against the anti-people activities of the ruling parties. She further noted that even Bhaktapur experienced incidents of arson and vandalism during the protests, emphasizing that such events occur when representatives fail to act in accordance with the sentiments of the people.

Er. Sujan Maka, principal of Khwopa Engineering College, emphasized the importance of intellectuals and academics being politically aware. He said teachers must not only master their subject areas but also keep students informed and guide them about political developments related to their fields.

Principal Er. Sunil Duwal of Khwopa College of Engineering stressed that, given the country’s sensitive circumstances, all teachers and staff must exercise restraint during the approaching festivals. He urged everyone to view holidays not as leisure but as opportunities to learn something new.

Vice Principals Dr. Subegman Bijukchhen and Er. Ratna Shova Prajapati said that festivals are also opportunities to strengthen social bonds and encouraged everyone to move forward with a determination to achieve something new during the festive season.

The program also featured greetings delivered by Mr. Sanjaya Manandhar, Head of Administration; Mr. Kaji Bahadur Pancha, Head of the Accounts Section; and Ar. Archana Bade Shrestha, Head of the Architecture Department, and Er. Rakesh Gwachha, Head of Electrical Department, on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami, Deepawali, and Chhath Festival.