49th Day – Situation Update
Today marks the 49th day of the ongoing protest in Madhes.
Amendment process started to address Madhesi/Tharus’ demands
The government has become ready to address two major demands of the agitating Madhes-based parties and Tharu community through constitutional amendments: the rights of representation and participation based on the principle of proportional representation in state bodies in line with the spirit of the Interim Constitution 2007, and delimitation of electoral constituencies on the basis of population.
However, top leaders of UML and UCPN-Maoists, especially Oli and Prachanda, have reportedly created obstructions in the amendment process. They argue that the charter cannot be amended without its implementation.
Border blockade resumes in western Terai; continues in eastern Terai
Although India has eased the supply of goods to Nepal via border checkpoints in western Tarai, the supply of petroleum products has yet to come to normal level.
However, agitating United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) cadres have continued the blockade at the Nepal-India border checkpoints in different districts of the eastern Tarai, including major checkpoints of Biratnagar-Jogbani, Gaur-Bairginiya, Jaleshwar-Bhittamod and Birgunj-Raxaul for the ninth consecutive day.
Over a week-long border blockade by Madhesi front have caused acute shortage of supplies especially of petroleum products across the country.
UN Secy Gen Moon calls agitating Nepal parties to heed govt call for talks
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called on agitating parties of Nepal to respond to the government’s call for dialogues and resolve their differences.
Indefinite protests prolonged over 1.5 months hit shortage of medicines
The indefinite strike called by the Madhesi Front has created an acute shortage of essential drugs in the riot-hit areas of Terai region that are distributed through district hospitals for free of cost.
PM paves way for new govt., Prez calls for consensus govt within 7 days
Prime Minister Sushil Koirala recommended the president to call the process for electing a new prime minister and form new government.
Then, President Ram Baran Yadav has called the political parties to elect a new prime minister based on political consensus within seven days.
Photo: Kathmandu Post
