Nepali journalists are out on the street NOT for democracy, but for a valid component of democracy called press freedom. Why? Because press freedom is PERSONAL to them. Without it, they simply cannot do good work. It's much easier for them to rally for something that affects them PERSONALLY than something that affects them in an abstract manner. That is why, Nepali journalists have asked other journalists to join their rallies; they have NOT asked for the janata to join in. Likewise, Nepali lawyers are out on the street. Why? Again, NOT for democracy in an abstract sense, but for a valid component of democracy called judicial independence. With the Royal bodies interfering into the working of courts and even replacing the courts in most cases, lawyers are personally affected, and they want to voice their words of protests. The challenge to political parties is this: Craft a message for the janata. Say how democracy is 'personal' to their welfare. Convince the janata of your message. Then maybe, the janata will come behind you. Else, you are left with just jumping up and down, spouting borrowed theories about democracy, calling names to others, reaching out to the Maoists and what not, and sharing your sob-stories with foreigners. oohi ashu