Nepalgunj, May 20 :

Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Chairman Pashupati SJB Rana today cautioned against excessive optimism unless the Maoists lay down arms.

Inaugurating a party convention in Nepalgunj today, Rana said: “Unless the Maoists join mainstream politics, we cannot be sure that peace will be restored in the country.”

All people should work towards bringing the Maoists to the political mainstream, Rana said, adding: “The present situation favours reconciliation and this golden oppertunity should not be missed.” He also urged the Maoists to stop extortion and refrain from threatening people immediately. “The historic announcement of the House of Representatives is not enough,” he said, adding: “It does not address the issues of women, Janajatis and Dalits.” The regional offices relocated to Surkhet under the King’s directive need to be shifted back to Nepalgunj, Rana said.

Speaking at the same meet, RPP joint secretary, Khem Raj Pandit, said the Nepalis are now sovereign and can make their own decisions. The convention was held under the chairmanship of Banke RPP chairman, Dhawal Shumser Rana.