Appeal for right to life

Tortured repeatedly, a pro-democracy activist battles for life

Photo:Maindev Aryal

A pro-democracy activist of 1990's popular movement is still running from pillars to post in search of help for treatment of his illness caused due to the torture from the security men.

Manidev Aryal, 36, of Nepalgunj, underwent severe torture at the hands of the police during a street demonstration in 1990. Aryal says he sustained serious injury on his back, which damaged Urethra.

"They continuously hit on the lower part of my back when I was on the street and I was arrested later," Aryal recalls that fateful time. "Along with hundreds of others, I was on the street of Nepalgunj, chanting slogans for democracy and defying the panchayat regime's clampdown, adds he, "Many of us were indiscriminately beaten up even after being taken into custody by the security personnel.

Later, he was taken to TU Teaching hospital in Kathmandu for treatment. He could not move around for six months and remained under intensive treatment for two years. Aryal also went to New Delhi in India for treatment with the government's assistance but his Urethra could not be treated completely.

Then in 1993, the Centre for Victims of Torture (CVICT), a non governmental Human Rights Organization, working for victims of torture, helped in his further treatment at a hospital in Germany for implanted artificial sphincter.

His health was improving but another misfortune was awaiting him.

"I was feeling better and gradually returning to my normal life. But all of a sudden, I had to undergo another painful experience after I was arrested on the false charge for helping Maoists in February 2002," he explains. "I was severely tortured in the army detention," Aryal explains. "I begged for mercy, requested them not to hit in my back but my cry fell on deaf ears.” He says he was continuously tortured for seven days by Ajit Thapa, the army Major and Ramesh Swar, the army Captain of the Chisapani barrack of the army in Banke.

Due to the torture, Aryal's health condition started deteriorating all over again and now he is in critical condition. He says the doctors have said his health will further worsen if he does not receive treatment in the time. Doctors have advised him to change the sphincter placed inside his body in 1993 in Germany to activate Urethra function.

"Doctors have said I have to get admitted at the hospital in Germany again for the treatment. But I do not have money for that, I need help," he said.

Aryal even took his case before the Parliamentary Committee that is responsible for looking after the issues of medical treatment of Persons injured during the people's movement-II in April this year. "I'm yet to receive any help or assurance from the Committee," he complains. "Our contribution for the restoration of democracy must be recognized and our right to life must be protected."

 Appeal by:
Manidev Aryal
Sonpur VDC-9, Banke District, Nepal
Email: manidevaryal@yahoo.com
Contact Ph. 01-2084330