Kathmandu –  Religious remarks emerging in recent days from both Parliament and the streets appear to be sowing the seeds of interfaith discord in Nepal. On this issue, an analytical article prepared by investigative journalist Dipesh Shrestha is presented below:

“ Nepal is a shared nation built upon religious, ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity. Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, Kirats, Christians, and people of other faiths are all constitutionally guaranteed equal dignity and rights. Therefore, any expression that spreads hatred, insults a community or faith, or incites retaliation poses a serious threat to a democratic society.

In recent days, religious intolerance and outrage seen across social media and public discourse have increased the risk of deep social division. Whether it was proportional representation lawmaker Khusbu Oli of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) stating in the House of Representatives that “Christians have carried out conversions by exploiting poverty,” or an individual at a press conference declaring, “Let us set Hindu temples on fire” — both statements are equally unacceptable.

Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy; however, such freedom must never become a vehicle for spreading hatred against any community. Language that wounds religious sentiments ultimately plants the seeds of social conflict.

RPP lawmaker Gyanendra Shahi calling for action against the statement advocating the burning of temples is, in itself, a positive step. However, the question here is one of impartiality. If offensive remarks made at a press conference warrant legal action, then statements made within Parliament targeting minority religious communities must also be treated with equal seriousness. Selectively condemning one form of extremism while remaining silent about another only deepens public distrust in justice and accountability.

Today also marks the Muslim festival of Eid. On this occasion, it is encouraging to see various levels of the state extending greetings and demonstrating inclusiveness and equality. Eid is a festival of love, tolerance, compassion, and brotherhood. The Holy Qur’an states: “Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and mutual assistance.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:90). On this sacred occasion, heartfelt wishes are extended to all Muslim brothers and sisters, with the hope that peace and harmony among all communities may grow even stronger.

No religion teaches hatred in the name of faith. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna: “One who bears no hatred toward any being, who is friendly and compassionate, is dear to Me.” (Gita 12:13). The Gita teaches compassion, cooperation, and equal treatment towards all humanity. It inspires us to respect one another and preserve social coexistence.

Likewise, the Tripitaka teaches: “Hatred is never appeased by hatred; it is appeased only by love.” This teaching of the Buddha remains profoundly relevant in today’s society. The Tripitaka regards compassion, goodwill, and mutual cooperation as the essence of true religion. Its core message is that human beings should respond to one another not with hatred, but with empathy and harmony.

Similarly, the Bible states: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” This teaching is not solely for Christians, but a universal message of peace for all humankind. The Qur’an, the Gita, the Bible, and the Tripitaka all share a common essence: humanity, love, tolerance, and mutual respect. Therefore, turning religion into a tool for division and hatred stands contrary to the very foundations of all faiths.

No religious site in Nepal should ever feel unsafe. Setting temples on fire is as condemnable as demolishing mosques. Attacking churches, vandalising monasteries or viharas, or insulting anyone’s religious beliefs are all assaults upon the nation’s social harmony. The state has no right to remain silent by considering any religion or community weaker or less significant than another.
The Constitution guarantees equal religious freedom to all citizens. Therefore, it is wrong to minimise the suffering of one group while amplifying that of another based on majority or minority status. Considering only one’s own pain as significant while dismissing injustice against others ultimately fuels social division and hostility. Nepal belongs equally to all, and every religion and culture here deserves equal respect.

Ultimately, Nepal’s strength lies not in division, but in unity. Our religions may differ, and our ways of worship may vary, but when it comes to nationality, we are all Nepalis. Respecting one another’s faiths, exercising restraint in sensitive matters, and strengthening the culture of coexistence are among the greatest necessities of our time. Only through such awareness and responsibility can Nepal move forward as a peaceful, civilised, and inclusive nation. “