"Pluralism is unacceptable for us because it promotes anarchy and disorder in the country, pluralism undermines the role of state," Gurung told reporters after a meeting of the high-level taskforce formed to sort out disputes in the constitution writing process. [break]
He said the Maoists would never "surrender to anyone in the name of accepting the concept of pluralism."
When asked whether his party´s adamant posture on the issue would not put the constitution-writing process in jeopardy, he said "we would rather face the consequences than accept pluralism."
Nepali Congress (NC) leader Ram Chandra Paudel said the Maoists have backed out from the previous agreements. He said leaders of other parties have been surprised by Maoists who have been disputing even on the basic principles of democracy.
"We are trying to create a democratic and pluralistic society but Maoists want regimented soceity. And there lies our basic difference with the Maoists," Paudel said.
At the meeting of high-level taskforce, which is headed by Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, leaders discussed the provisions to be incorporated as directive principles of the state in the new constitution.
The Maoists reiterated that the new system to be adopted be defined as People´s Federal Republic while NC leaders said it should be the Federal Democratic Republic based on pluralism and multiparty competition. Leaders from Nepal Workers and Peasants´ Party (NWPP), on the other hand, maintained that it should be Socialist Republic.
"Democracy in itself is not enough, as it is a vague term. It is often misused by even dictators and kings. So we should clearly say that we are for People´s Democratic Republic," Gurung said.
Also, the Maoists are stuck to their stance on the issue of incorporating a provision in the new constitution that would make military training mandatory for all adult citizens. Paudel termed the Maoist proposal as their policy to militarize the country.
"While we are for removing poverty and illiteracy and transforming the country into prosperous society, the Maoists aim at militarizing the society," he said.
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