However, the Baidya Maoists will not participate in elections on November 19. "The way will open if we reach consensus on the contents of the new constitution," Netra Bikram Chand, party secretary, told Republica. He added that the face of new Nepal should be framed in a consensus of the political parties and then only could the drafting of a new constitution be ensured. [break]
"What will be the place of women, Dalits, Karnali, the Janajati, the poor, workers and peasants in the new constitution? These should be ensured before holding elections," added Chand.
"We want to discuss at any talks the contents of the new constitution."
Similarly, the CPM-Maoist also raised the issue of unequal treaties with India.
"The unequal treaties should be address in the new constitution," added Chand, arguing that Nepal is suffering under unequal treaties with India.
The Baidya-led Maoist party has been demanding the scrapping of treaties with India including the treaty of 1950, arguing that it is unequal and harmful for Nepal.
The Maoist leader also put forth the issue of postponing the scheduled election date of November 19.
He said that his party will likewise raise the issue of dissolution of the present government.
The CPN-Maoist has forwarded an 18-point demand to the HLPC, the high level political committee, for talks.
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