In a disheartening turn of events on December 29, 2023, the EPS-TOPIK (Employment Permit System – Test of Proficiency in Korean) protest by Nepali youths in Balkumari, Kathmandu, took a tragic turn. The situation escalated when Nepal Police used force, resulting in the unfortunate death of two young protesters both in their early 20s.
The protesting youths, who had initially applied for positions in a ship manufacturing company, were not successful. Their appeal to be allowed to take the examination for alternative fields was rejected by the EPS office in Kathmandu. Despite a recent court order permitting applicants to be allowed to take exams in productivity and agriculture-related areas, the EPS office implemented a selective approach, only accommodating those who had filed a lawsuit.
The consequences of this decision unfolded tragically. Maybe a different approach could have prevented this incident? Something for all the stakeholders to pause and think about.
Beyond the individual casualties, arrests, and injuries, this remains a battle among Nepali brothers and sisters – a conflict that, as a nation, we cannot afford. It is a plea to halt the bloodshed and find a collective resolution for the well-being of our community.
