Issuing a joint statement Tuesday, Nepali Congress (NC) President Sushil Koirala, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Madhesi People's Rights Forum (Democratic) Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachchhadar have reiterated that the delineations could be adjusted and revised as per constructive suggestions received from people at the local level.
The top leaders have said that the violent incidents that erupted in various parts of the country following preliminary delineation of the provinces have left them seriously worried. They have said that it is natural for there to be strong reactions and offer of suggestions from various quarters on the proposed delineations as federalism is something new in Nepal. There might be disputes no matter how the delineations are done.
UN Secretary-General Guterres urges restraint as protest escala...
The party leaders have reiterated their commitment to addressing the concerns of the agitators through revisions and adjustments in province delineations. "Efforts will be made to resolve the disputes in line with people's aspirations and the needs and interests of the nation," they said in their joint statement.
The party leaders said they expect people to exercise restraint and come up with appropriate suggestions. Arguing that it is a historic task to bring the constitution-drafting process to a successful conclusion as per the people's wishes, the leaders have also appealed to all to remain united for completing the task of constitution drafting, for the sake of nation, democracy, peace, stability and development.
Talking to media persons, UML Chairman Oli said the protests are aimed at foiling the effort to promulgate a new statute. "We will foil this conspiracy and promulgate a new statute at any cost," he said while adding that there is no need to give in to incitements. He also said that there can be some revisions in the delineation of the proposed federal provinces.
Likewise, Maoist party Chairman Dahal said there have been attempts to derail the constitution-making process. "I appeal to all to remain aware of this. We will hold discussions on the genuine concerns coming from the people. The delineations can be revised till the last hour," he said.
"There can be room for revisions once a new statute is in place. There will be no such room if a new statute is not promulgated at all. The result of failure to draft a new statute will be tragic," he further said.
MPRF(D) Chairman Gachchhadar said the concerns raised by Tharus, indigenous nationalities and the Madhesi community need to be duly addressed. "We are serious about addressing their concerns. We can address their concerns till the last hours. We are ready for that," he said.
