In a joint press statement, embassies of Britain, the United States of America, Federal Republic of Germany, Australia, Denmark, Switzerland and the delegation of the European Union in Kathmandu underscored that bandas use the threat of violence to restrict freedom of movement and people´s rights to a normal life. “… as such bandas can not be approved of or supported by the undersigned members of the international community,” said the joint statement. [break]
The joint statement, however, said they fully respect the rights of organizations to express their opinions through any form of democratic and non-violent protests, which balances freedom of expression and freedom of association whilst respecting others´ rights, including the right to differ in their opinion.
Nefin chief Raj Kumar Lekhi had sent a letter addressed to the head of DFID Sarah Sanyahumbi on Thursday asking not to take “immature and childish decision to discontinue support to janajatis”. “I hope you will understand the situation and will review your decision,” read the letter.
Despite the warning, the Nefin, an umbrella organization of various ethnic fronts, is adamant on its decision to enforce the banda. “We will enforce the banda against all opposition for the cause of ethnic nationalities,” said Lekhi.
Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal shortly after arriving from Turkey had asked Peace Minister Bishwanath Sah, Minister without Portfolio Ghanashyam Bhusal and his chief political advisor Prakash Jwala to hold talks with Nefin.
Nefin, however, snubbed the government´s call for talks. “We did not go for talks as it is just an attempt to thwart our movement,” he said.
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