Bidya pays tribute to Madan-Ashrit, calls for stronger democratic unity

KATHMANDU: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has said that the people-centric political vision, ideological clarity, national sovereignty, and democratic commitment demonstrated by late leader Madan Bhandari remain highly relevant even today.

In a social media message marking the Madan–Ashrit Memorial Day, she stressed the need for greater responsibility in strengthening Nepal’s democratic republic.

Paying tribute on the 33rd memorial anniversary of Madan Bhandari and his close aide Jivraj Ashrit, she praised their contributions to the country’s communist movement and ideological foundation, particularly highlighting Bhandari’s doctrine of “People’s Multiparty Democracy.”

She described the late leaders as key figures who helped build public trust in Nepal’s communist movement and elevated it through mass support and organizational strength.

“Madan–Ashrit built extraordinary trust, affection, and support from the people for the communist movement, helping it climb the ladder of success,” she said in her message.

Bhandari further noted that the doctrine of “People’s Multiparty Democracy” guided Nepal’s path toward social justice, prosperity, and transformation through democratic means, helping establish the CPN-UML as a trusted political force.

She urged party leaders and cadres to remain more responsible and sensitive while addressing current challenges, emphasizing organizational unity, active participation, sacrifice, and dedication as essential conditions for progress.

“Considering both past achievements and present opportunities and challenges, we must move forward with greater responsibility,” she said, adding that strengthening the relationship between the party and the public is essential to meeting public expectations and aspirations for reform.

She also stressed the need for continuous efforts to align principles with practice in order to maintain and expand public trust.