KATHMANDU, April 28: Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand met Nepali Congress (NC) leader Jagannath Poudel and his proponents and supporters today. During the meeting, Minister Khand requested Poudel to withdraw his candidacy and support the ruling coalition candidate in the upcoming local election.

Speaking to the media after the meeting with Poudel, Minister Khand expressed confidence that Poudel, who is an independent candidate, would help in implementing the party's decision. Minister Khand said, "The party has formed an alliance under special circumstances. We have made a special request to him to move forward and implement the decision made by the party.” Stating that the party will field an official candidate during the election, he said that the NC has always been committed to democracy.

Minister Khand said, "There is an uncomfortable situation now. Discussions were held on how to move forward from this uncomfortable situation.” Before meeting Poudel, Home Minister Khand had a meeting with Paudel's proposer Meena Kharel and supporter Krishna Lal Sapakota.

Similarly, speaking to the media after the meeting with the Home Minister, Poudel said that he had reached 'a point of no return' and  would not withdraw from his candidature. He said," This is linked with the future as well as the dignity of my friends of Chitwan district. This is not my decision alone due to which it is difficult for me as well.” During the meeting, Home Minister Khand, Minister of State Umesh Shrestha, Congress Chitwan President Rajeshwar Khanal and District Vice President Rajiv Neupane were present.

 
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