Netra Bikram Chand, widely known as Biplav, is a prominent political figure and revolutionary leader in Nepal, known for his active involvement in the movement for democracy and social justice. He is admired for his bold stance against oppression and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.
Early Life and Background
Netra Bikram Chand was born in the rural village of Rolpa District in 2024 B.S. (1967 A.D.) to Khusi Maya Garti and Chitra Bahadur Chand. He was the youngest son in the family. His father came from a line of Gorkhali soldiers, as did his other seven uncles. Although his family was not affluent, they maintained a moderate economic status.
From a young age, Netra Bikram Chand showed a deep attachment to his uncles, whose patriotic spirit greatly influenced his early worldview. Their commitment to the nation left a lasting impact on him, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride.
During the People's Movement of 2062/2063 B.S., his entire family was actively involved, demonstrating their commitment to political change and democracy.
Childhood and Education
As a child, Chand was known for his strong-willed and rebellious nature. He disliked injustice, dominance, and discrimination, and was unable to tolerate such behavior. He began his formal education at the age of 8, attending a village school despite the long and difficult commute. Alongside his studies, he helped his family with household chores, such as plowing fields and taking care of cattle.
He completed grade 2 at his village school and later joined Bal Kalyan Higher Secondary School for further education. In 2043 B.S., at the age of 19, he passed the School Leaving Certificate (SLC) examination. After graduation, he moved to Kathmandu for higher education, where he met prominent Maoist leader Krishna Bahadur Mahara. In 2044 B.S., he enrolled in the Law Campus, but due to financial and personal reasons, he was unable to continue and discontinued his studies.
Family Life and Personal Sacrifices
After completing grade 10, his family urged him to focus on earning and employment, but Chand refused to abandon his ideological path. At the age of 20, he married Subhadra Mall, with whom he had one daughter and two sons.
Later, he and his family migrated from Rolpa to Kapilvastu, where they owned three acres of land. In 2046 B.S., he officially began his political journey by becoming actively involved in party work. He selflessly donated his land to the party and even went into debt for the cause. Eventually, he inherited an additional 10 acres of land from his father, which he also contributed to the movement.
Entry into Politics and Student Activism
Political turmoil in 2036 B.S. severely affected education in Nepal, leaving many students, including Chand, frustrated. This led him to step into politics to address such issues. In 2039 B.S., he joined the student union and became actively involved in solving student problems.
In 2042 B.S., during a major student protest led by Mohan Baidya, Chand played a significant role and gained recognition for his contributions. As a result, in 2043 B.S., he was appointed as the President of the Nepal Student Union (NSU) in Rolpa District. His position as district president marked a turning point in his political career. Later, in 2048 B.S., he became both Secretary of the Central Committee and President of NSU.
In 2047 B.S., he was appointed as a district member of the Young Communist League (YCL) in Rolpa. By 2050 B.S., he had become a zonal member, and for one year, he also served as a central committee member of YCL in Kathmandu.
Role in the Maoist Insurgency
In 2052 B.S., Netra Bikram Chand took part in the Maoist insurgency as a commander. He was actively involved in key attacks, including the Karnali Kalikot police post, and other offensives in Dang and Karnali regions. He believed these acts of armed resistance were necessary to restore justice and peace in the nation.
Prison Life and Arrests
Throughout his political journey, Chand faced numerous arrests and imprisonments. In 2045 B.S., he was arrested from Ratna Park for protesting against the Gorkha recruitment agreement. He also served a 17-day prison sentence after being arrested in Asan. These hardships only strengthened his resolve and deepened his dedication to his political ideals.
Legacy and Influence
Netra Bikram Chand, known for his radical political views and fierce patriotism, has remained a symbol of resistance and dedication in Nepal's modern political history. His journey from a rural village boy to a prominent revolutionary leader reflects his deep commitment to transforming Nepal into a just and equitable society.