Pokhara, December 13

Minister for Agriculture Haribol Gajurel today said it is not the first time that India has expressed its concern about Nepal’s constitution.

Speaking to media persons in Pokhara, Minister Gajurel said India had expressed its concerns about the previous constitutions also. He, however, said that India’s concern about Nepal’s new statute is pointless as the document is more democratic than that of India. “Demands raised by the agitating Madheshi parties will be addressed soon,” he said, adding, “The government is serious about resolving the current crisis through dialogue.”

Noting that Nepali populace was experiencing untold misery due to the blockade and general strike, Minister Gajurel held that the government would hold talks with the agitating parties and resolve the protracted crisis very soon. He made it clear that there was no alternative to the present government to resolve the crisis.

In another context, Gajurel, who is also a UCPN-Maoist leader, admitted that some party leaders had flouted the party discipline and code of conduct.

“Some central leaders have been speaking against the party’s policy, while some ministers from the party have failed to deliver,” said Gajurel. He said action against some central leaders and ministers would help discipline the party.

Gajurel indicated that party might recall some ministers and punish some central leaders.

“The party leadership has become serious about taking action against the leaders and ministers who have drawn flak inside and outside the party for their activities,” Gajurel added.