Kathmandu, August 1:

The Carter Centre has decided to send at least 50 short-term international observers for the Constituent Assembly polls, while the European Union will send 60 short-term and long-term observers.

Both the international organisations are concerned about the deteriorating law and order situation and the eight-party government’s slow response to the marginalised groups. “It is high time that the government developed a wider security plan and responded to the marginalised groups,” Director at The Carter Centre in Kathmandu Darren Nance told The Himalayan Times in an exclusive meeting.

The Carter Centre believes that the issues of marginalised, if not recognised, would “jeopardise” the electoral and peace processes.

“The government has not done enough to address the concerns of Tarai people and other marginalised groups. Lots needs to be done to strengthen the police force for holding credible elections,” Nance added. Senior officials at the Carter Centre here suggested that the eight parties should “come forward in a unified manner” to develop a favourable environment for the polls.

“If the polls are not inclusive, those excluded would feel antagonised and that would not ensure sustainable peace,” a European diplomat said.

Meanwhile, EU ambassadors today met Chief Election Commissioner Bhoj Raj Pokhrel and expressed their concerns about continuing lack of security in parts of the country.