The phrase used in govt’s letter implying negligence on the part of ongoing agitation was objected

Kathmandu, October 28

Federal Democratic Alliance of National Madhes Socialist Party and Madhesi Janadhikar Forum-Republican today responded to the government’s call for dialogue casting doubts on the outcome of talks without participation of the Nepali Congress.

The reply written by NMSP Chair Sharat Singh Bhandari and MJF-R Chair Rajkishor Yadav said the current government lacked two thirds majority and raised doubts about the outcome of the talks if held without participation of the Nepali Congress.

The Federal Democratic Alliance also objected to the phrase used in the government’s letter, which it said neglected the ongoing Madhes agitation.

On the demands of the Madhesi forces, the Federal Democratic Alliance demanded common position of the ruling coalition and the Nepali Congress, which could together form two thirds majority in the Parliament.

Any amendment to the constitution, which might be necessary to address the grievances of the agitating forces, would require two thirds majority in the Parliament.

The Federal Democratic Alliance sought political commitment of the major parties on major issues raised by the agitating forces, including the provincial boundaries, delineation of election constituencies, proportional representation and citizenship.