KATHMANDU, May 8:The CPN (Maoist Centre), the main opposition party in parliament, appears divided over the rising tensions between India and Pakistan. Two senior leaders—General Secretary Dev Gurung and Deputy General Secretary Janardan Sharma—have made conflicting public statements.
Gurung criticized India’s retaliatory strikes following the Pahalgam attack, saying there was no confirmed evidence linking the attack to Pakistan. “Launching an attack without clear proof cannot be justified. Nepal must stand for peace,” he wrote on Facebook.
MASTER OF VOICES
In contrast, Sharma supported India’s actions, stating, “Terrorism is the worst threat to humanity, and every nation has the duty to fight it.” He described the operation as part of India’s anti-terrorism campaign, Operation Sindoor.
Their opposing remarks have created confusion over the party’s official position. Party insiders say the views should be treated as personal opinions, not the party line.
The issue gained further attention after Sharma met with Dr. Vijay Chauthaiwale, head of the Foreign Affairs Department of India’s ruling BJP, during his Kathmandu visit from April 30 to May 2. Chauthaiwale reportedly lobbied for Nepal’s support in case of Indian retaliation against Pakistan. Notably, he did not meet Gurung.
The contrasting remarks from leaders—one of whom met with Indian officials and the other who did not—have added to speculation. Still, the party has not released an official statement on the India-Pakistan conflict.
