Kathmandu, September 20

India today extended her best wishes to the people of Nepal on the promulgation of new constitution, but refrained from welcoming it.

Minutes after the historic event, the Ministry of External Affairs of India issued a statement expressing concern about the continued violence in several parts of the Tarai bordering India.

“We note the promulgation in Nepal today of a constitution,” MEA stated, adding that India has been supportive of a federal, democratic, republican and inclusive constitution in Nepal, throughout. “We extend our best wishes to the people of Nepal,” read the statement.

The MEA noted that Indian Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae had spoken to Prime Minister Sushil Koirala regarding the continuous violence in the Tarai region. “We are concerned that the situation in several parts of the country bordering India continues to be violent,” it added.

The statement repeated New Delhi’s calls to resolve all outstanding issues and differences through dialogue in an ambiance free from violence and intimidation.

“This would lay the foundation of harmony, progress and development in Nepal,” MEA added in the statement.

India is the only major power to refrain from welcoming the new constitution. China, Japan and the EU have welcomed the new constitution. They, however, stressed on ending violence and resolving the remaining issues through dialogue.