Date:04/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/07/04/stories/2006070407191000.htm

National

Maoists to join interim government in Nepal

Special Correspondent

Elections to be held under new Constitution, says Consul General

KOLKATA: The Maoists will be joining the interim government in Nepal, which will be conducting the first elections in that country under its new Constitution, Nepalese Consul General in the city, G. P. Kusum, said here on Monday. "We hope that friendly countries also accept the arrangement," he added.

"The interim government will be set up as per the provisions of the interim Constitution which is being drafted by a special committee appointed by the Seven Party Alliance. The Maoists also have a representation in the committee," Dr. Kusum said. "The Maoists have become a major political force in Nepal and it is not possible to form a government without them." He hoped that the U.S. would not oppose the induction of representatives of the Maoists in the interim government.

No illegal activity

Dr. Kusum who earlier met Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, said the Maoists were abiding by the country's law and no longer carried out any illegal activity in Nepal. He also denied reports of Nepal Maoists establishing contact with leaders of different militant outfits in north Bengal.