Himal Press 
Bipin Joshi
KANCHANPUR: The family of Bipin Joshi from Kanchanpur, who is being held by Hamas, is anxiously waiting in hope of his safe return following the Hamas-Israel ceasefire.
The news of the ceasefire has rekindled hope in Bipin’s family for the return of their son, who has been in Hamas custody for fifteen months.
Although Bipin’s name was not included in the list of hostages to be released in the first phase, his family is hopeful that Bipin will be released in the second phase. “We were hoping that Bipin would be released in the first phase, but it didn’t happen. My innocent son has been held hostage for fifteen months,” said his mother Padma.
She added that although the family had hoped for his release during previous ceasefires, it did not materialize. However, she is optimistic this time.
“We still fear that war might break out again after the ceasefire. We are terrified,” Padma said. “I just request the government to ensure my son’s safe release during the current ceasefire.”
Bipin was among 49 students from Far Western University’s Agriculture faculty who had gone to Israel under the ‘Learn and Earn’ program. Less than a month after they reached Israel, Hamas attacked the Alumim Kibbutz in southern Israel. Ten students were killed in the attack, and Bipin Joshi was taken captive by Hamas. His condition has remained unknown since then.
The Israeli government has published a list of 33 hostages to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire. Bipin’s name is not on the published list.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak said the government is seriously working for Bipin’s release. “According to information available to the government, Bipin is safe in Hamas custody. The government is working seriously for his release,” Lekhak said. “With the current Hamas-Israel ceasefire, we are hopeful for Bipin’s safe release.”
He added that the government is pursuing diplomatic efforts for Bipin’s release.
(Translated from RSS)
