KATHMANDU, March 23: At a time when a section of Nepali Congress (NC) leaders are voicing in favor of a referendum on federalism and republic, Dr Shekhar Koirala, a key leader of the party, has said the country cannot backtrack from federalism and republic.

Addressing a function organized by GP Koirala Foundation in the capital on Friday, Dr Koirala said it is the responsibility of the NC to institutionalize the republic and federalism achieved through the sacrifice of hundreds of martyrs. Arguing that politics and religion are two different things, Dr Koirala said that the issues related to religion need to be settled through formulation of necessary laws at the earliest.

Dr Koirala also said that the activism and activities of ceremonial president in recent days had alarmed many in the country. “Our constitution defines the presidency as ceremonial. But attempts are being made to drag the president into active politics and this does not augur well for the country,” he further said.

Alluding to the recent remark made by NC General Secretary Dr Shashank Koirala in favor of a referendum on federalism and secularism, the party's youth leader Gagan Thapa speaking at the function asked top NC leaders not to air views that go against the constitution. Speaking at the same function, NC central working committee member Sujata Koirala pointed at the need for the party to stand firmly in support of democracy and human rights.

 
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