Birgunj, February 22:

Maoist chairperson Prachanda today said the situation for holding the constituent assembly (CA) elections within the pre-planned deadline is getting difficult and therefore there should not be any delay in announcing a republican set-up in the country.

Addressing a Maoist gathering at Narayani Stadium, Prachanda said a republican set-up has become the need of the country now. “As regressive forces are hatching conspiracy against the sacrifice of the Nepali people, there is no alternative to a final revolt,” Prachanda said.

“Federal system, proportional election and right to self-determination are the issues of people and they should be conscious of ensuring such rights,” he said.

Prachanda said that his party would present a proposal in the parliament to announce a republican set-up before the CA polls.

He also accused the regressive forces of trying to disrupt communal harmony in Madhes.

Maoist leader Dr Baburam Bhattarai said, “As the king is trying to stage yet another coup with the support of the army, he should be handcuffed and sent to jail.”