Kathmandu, September 17

The United Democratic Madhesi Front today decided to keep the door for talks open, while intensifying their agitation.

Issuing a press release here today, UDMF said the new constitution would not bring an end to inequality and discrimination against the marginalised community and the front would organise silent walk with black flags across Madhes to protest the promulgation of new constitution on September 20. UDMF stated it would also impose a blackout from 7:00- 8:00pm on September 20, the day the constitution would be promulgated to counter major parties, who have announced that they would celebrate the promulgation of new constitution with Deepawali.

The front also decided to form a working alliance with forces that disagreed with the constitution-making process and those who quit the constitution-making process. It also decided to torch the copies of the new constitution on September 21. The government, UDMF added, is not serious about addressing the concerns of the agitating forces and is trying to suppress the agitation in Madhes by mobilising security forces, including the Nepali Army. UDMF also condemned the killing of five people in Rupandehi.