Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, February 9:

Intellectuals have said that the present situation is “favourable and advantageous” for the Maoists to join the mainstream for peace in the country.

“In fact, it is a decisive moment for the Maoists to realise the prospect to hold talks and come to the mainstream,” former vice-chairman of Nepal Planning Commission (NPC) Dr Mohan Man Sainju said at the Reporters’ Club today. “Or else, history will ever forgive them.”

He suggested that the government agenda must focus particularly on the underprivileged and backward community to encourage the Maoists to come to the talks table.

Senior advocate Krishna Prasad Bhandari said the Maoists will “rush” to the talks table once the King assures the people of food, shelter and peace.

He also laid emphasis on anti-corruption measures, which the government should prioritise by carrying out on-the-spot investigations.

Standing Committee member of the Raj Parishad Yagya Prasad Acharya urged the Maoists to forget all prejudice and come to the table. He also criticised some “external” as well as “internal” elements for trying to disrupt the relationship between the King and the people.

Industrialist Hulas Golchha said he was optimistic about the Maoists now coming to the table.

Calling the King’s February 1 proclamation a “compulsion”, Professor Dr Ratna Kamal Baidhya said that it was high time the political parties and Maoists realised their mistakes.

Kollywood actor Karisma Manandhar criticised political parties and the bureaucracy for lacking in “vision”. Giving peace priority, she said, “We are with the King to establish peace.”

Former chairman of National Women’s Commission, Durga Pokhrel, said the King’s move was one of compulsion to bring the country back on track and lambasted political leaders for failing to establish peace.