Deuba returns home; denies meeting Dalai's reps

KATHMANDU, Nov 9: Former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba on Wednesday refuted reports that he met with the representatives of Tibetan religious leader in exile Dalai Lama during his recent India trip.

Talking to journalists at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) upon his arrival from New Delhi, Deuba termed the media reports as baseless.

"Tibet is an integral part of China. I am committed to 'One-China' policy," he said.

Deuba had left for the Indian capital on Friday to attend a conference entitled India Ideas Conclave organized in Goa by the India Foundation. He also delivered lecture as keynote speaker in the 12th Nehru Memorial Lecture at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The JNU had also conferred him honorary doctorate degree on the occasion.

Deuba informed that his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was amicable.

According to Deuba, Indian Prime Minister Modi told him that India was ready to assist the earthquake victims and pledged to provide necessary support sought by Nepal. 

Deuba said he informed Modi that a proposal for the constitution amendment is being readied, and the constitution amendment bill will be tabled in the parliament soon to address the concerns of the agitating parties including those based in Madhesh.