Kathmandu, September 22

CPN-UML Chairman KP Oli today said he did not believe India would impose a blockade since the southern neighbour was not against Nepal.

Talking to reporters at a tea reception at Dasharath Stadium to celebrate the promulgation of the historic constitution, Oli said India was not against the new constitution, but had some concerns.

“I don’t believe that India will take such a step,” he said, adding that the drivers of Indian Lorries ferrying goods in Nepal have complained about security problems.

Oli further said there was no security problem in Nepal and any misunderstanding with the Indian government would be clarified through dialogue.

He said Nepal had drafted one of the most democratic constitutions through elected representatives of the people from the Constituent Assembly. “There is no fault with the new constitution in terms of democratic issues compared to any of the world’s constitutions,” he claimed, adding that the constitution had institutionalised federalism with democracy as its fundamental spirit, ended all forms of discrimination existing in society and ensured equality.

Oli also claimed that special provisions were managed to uplift the disadvantaged groups and different commissions were formed for them.He claimed that the constitution had created foundations for the development of the country and ensured a responsible foreign policy.

“I congratulate all Nepali brothers and sisters living throughout the world.”

However, he said, some voices of dissatisfaction were heard from some quarters, but they should understand that the Constitution is not a rigid document and that it could be revised. “There are still chances of improving the constitution and therefore there is no need of any dissatisfaction and violence.” He said the nation should move ahead towards prosperity without delay.

This constitution was promulgated to conclude the transitional phase, maintain peace and order in the country and this wouldn’t affect the concerns of any of our international friends, he said adding, “I would like to assure and urge them not to harbour any confusion.”

Meanwhile, Unified CPN-Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal said the PM had held discussion with Mahanta Thakur and leaders of the three parties had held talks with Bijay Gachhadar and the talks were positive.

Asked about the rumour of blockade by India he said, “The government might have known all about that. We will come up with common view after holding a meeting this evening.”

NC Vice-president Ramchandra Paudel said the blockade was only a rumour and nobody should believe them as India is Nepal’s good neighbour.

Unified CPN-Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal said Nepal should not panic if a blockade is imposed when the people’s representatives promulgate a new constitution in Nepal.

While addressing the launch of the book Prachandapath ko Bijay penned by UCPN-M leader Gopal Kirati on Tuesday, Dahal said Nepali parties were not for confrontation with India but they would not accept any attack on Nepal’s self-dignity.