Kathmandu, February 16:

Former minister and member of the interim legislature, Bijaya Kumar Gachhedar, today said Tharus could secure 35 seats in the constituent assembly if they show unity.

Speaking at the inaugural function of the first convention of Tharu Intellectual and National Research Centre (TINRC), Nepal, Gachhedar said: “If the Tharus from the far-east to the far-west come under an umbrella, they can win 35 seats in the constituent assembly.”

He said the eight political parties were to blame for the loss of lives and property during the three-week-long Terai movement.

“Twenty-two Madhesis had to sacrifice their lives due to the irresponsibility of the political parties. The Prime Minister felt the need to address the problems of the Madhesis only after innocent people lost their lives,” he said.

Ram Jan Chaudhari, another member of the interim legislature, said: “Tharus would benefit if they unite with a common demand for an autonomous Tharuhat region in the Madhesh.”

Former president of the Tharu Students’s Society, Chandra Gami Chaudhari, said: “An autonomous Tharuhat region is the only way to free the Tharu community from traditional slavery.”

President of the Tharu Women Awareness Centre, Phul Mati Chaudhary, said: “Tharu women lack education and awareness and are economically backward.”