Kathmandu, February 8

The Untied Democratic Madhesi Front today decided to lift border blockade, put off its general strike and allow government offices to open for the time being, keeping in mind country’s problems, people’s needs and their suggestions.

According to a press release issued by the UDMF after an informal meeting of the chiefs of its constituents, the front also decided to expand its protest programmes in Madhes/Tharuhat, Kathmandu and other parts of the country.

The UDMF also decided to induct other like-minded parties and alliances into the front.

The front said the government and several media outlets spread the rumour that the agitating forces had withdrawn their movement and lost the battle.

“Our agitation will continue till our demands are met. No matter what the circumstances are, we will not backtrack from our struggle,” the UDMF stated in its release.

Holding the government responsible for increased hours of load shedding, the UDMF said the government was encouraging black-marketing and was ignoring the concerns of earthquake victims.

The front announced fresh agitation programme from February 12 to 19. On February 12, the UDMF would organise torch rallies in districts and on February 17 it would organise baton rallies in district headquarters.

On February 19, the UDMF would collect signatures from districts on its 11-point demands and would also organise protest rallies in district headquarters.

Although Chairperson of Tarai Madhes Democratic Party Mahantha Thakur, Chairperson of Federal Socialist Forum-Nepal Upendra Yadav and Chairperson of Tarai Madhes Sadbhawana Party-Nepal Mahendra Ray Yadav have signed the release, SP Chair Rajendra Mahato did not.

PM welcomes decision

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Monday welcomed the decision of the agitating United Democratic Madhesi Front to lift border blockade.

According to PM’s Press Adviser Pramod Singh, PM said he had taken UDMF’s move positively.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said he was confident that all the differences with UDMF could be resolved through dialogue.