Lalitpur-Nepal 3:30 afternoon, In recent events in Nepal, a series of protests and unfortunate incidents have unfolded, shedding light on the controversy surrounding the Korean language test for employment in various sectors. The unrest has resulted in the tragic death of two young men and the injury of several others, sparking public outrage and prompting an official investigation by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Background of the Protest

The demonstrations were triggered by a language test policy implemented by the Korean government, affecting Nepali candidates seeking employment under the Employment Permit System (EPS). Last July, 32,000 individuals who applied for jobs in the shipbuilding sector were unable to participate in the language test for the manufacturing sector. The Korean policy restricts candidates to choose only one language test area within a year.

According to Rajiv Pokharel, head of the Employment Management Division of the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security, Nepal facilitates the language test, but the Korean government enforces the policy. Those who had previously taken the language test for shipbuilding were excluded from the manufacturing sector's language test, leading to widespread discontent among the affected candidates.

Protest Escalation

The discontented candidates had been staging a sit-in at the EPS branch since December 19, demanding the option to choose the shipbuilding sector and fill the language test form for the manufacturing sector. Eighteen applicants even filed a writ petition in the High Court, Patan, seeking permission to participate in the examination. While the High Court granted an interim order on January 5, allowing only the petitioners to participate, it failed to address the concerns of the larger group.

On Friday, the situation escalated when protesters set fire to the vehicle of Physical Infrastructure and Transport Minister Prakash Jwala, following the burning of his vehicle after the police used tear gas and bullets to control the unrest.

Tragic Consequences

The escalation of the protests led to tragic consequences. Two young men, Birendra Shah of Doti and Sujan Raut of Dailekh, succumbed to injuries sustained during the police response in Balkumari, Lalitpur. Another young man remains seriously injured. The police reported the arrest of 23 protesters, further intensifying the volatile situation.

Official Investigation

In response to the unfolding events, the Ministry of Home Affairs formed a three-member committee to investigate the Balkumari incident. DIG Lamamani Acharya is leading the committee, with Amardeep Sunuwar and Basu Sigdel as members. The committee has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation and submitting a report within seven days.

Looking Ahead

As tensions continue to rise, Nepal has appealed to the Korean government to conduct the language test for all sectors simultaneously, allowing candidates the flexibility to choose their preferred field. The outcome of this appeal remains uncertain, but the hope is for a positive response from Korea to address the concerns of the Nepali candidates seeking employment opportunities.

The recent protests and tragic incidents in Nepal underscore the importance of addressing the challenges faced by job seekers participating in language tests for foreign employment. The controversy surrounding the Korean language test policy has not only led to public outrage but has also prompted an official investigation. The resolution of this issue will require collaborative efforts between the Nepali and Korean governments to ensure a fair and just system for all candidates seeking employment under the EPS.