Rajbiraj, May 22:

The chairman of the Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum (MJF), Upendra Yadav, has termed Maoist chairman Prachanda’s oft-repeated remarks on the Tarai agitation as “irresponsible.”

Prachanda has been saying that if given a chance he would solve the Tarai problems through talks as well as ‘retaliation’ within 15 days. Addressing a press meet here today, Yadav said: “Prachanda’s remarks are irresponsible and against the interests of the Madhesi people.”

He warned of a rebellion if the MJF’s demands for an autonomous Madhesh and equal rights for Madhesis are not met. Yadav further said that PM Girija Prasad Koirala’s commitment to solve the problems has been in vain. Accusing the Maoists of not being able to give up their fancy for arms even after joining the government, Yadav said the issues of the Madhesh have been cast aside, as the eight political parties are busy fulfilling their own vested interests.

Asked whether he was a royalist, Yadav said: “The eight parties are also royalists and that is why they have brought forward the concept of a ceremonial king.” On yesterday’s incident in Morang where MJF activists torched the vehicle being used by UML leader Bharat Mohan Adhikari, Yadav said: “As long as the state keeps putting aside the Tarai issues, such incidents are bound to take place.”

Gaur probe progress rued

Rautahat: The MJF’s Rautahat executive committee on Tuesday alleged that the panel looking into the Gaur massacre has been working under political pressure.

In a statement, the forum regretted that the panel returned to Kathmandu four days after its opening office in Gaur.

District president of the MJF Amar Yadav regretted that the committee, instead of probing the massacre at the site of the incident, has decided to summon 50 persons to Kathmandu. — HNS