“A Hindu Nepal is a secular Nepal and Maoists are attacking its Hindu character. There should be a balance between constitutional monarchy and multi-party democracy. Hindu Nepal is a secular Nepal and in the true sense it represents a truly secular Hindu nation. An attack on Nepal is an attack on Hinduism as well,” said RSS spokesman, Shri Ram Madhav at a seminar titled, ‘Whither Nepal—Monarchy or Democracy’, organised by the Indo-Nepal Young Journalists Association (INYJA) in Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion, K.V. Rajan, former Indian Ambassador to Nepal, said that the media of both the countries had no hesitation in talking on subjects related to each other. There existed a strong relationship between the two countries. He said, “When Nepal bleeds, India bleeds too.” K.V. Rajan strongly emphasised, “We have no right to adopt a high moral ground and lecture the neighbouring countries. Before, preaching, we need to introspect and stop insurgency in our own country.” The decision to end democracy by the King in October 2002 saw the downfall of Nepal, resulting in agitations by political parties and the masses. Rajan pointed out that Nepal should have legitimacy, ability and capacity to deal with its people. “A national consensus is absolutely essential for the political parties, and the King must be free to tackle the Maoist insurgency in his country.”
General Ashok Mehta, an eminent defence expert, said, “The situation in Nepal is so fragile that I reckon it as a failed State. The situation that prevails today has resulted in the death of more than 13,000 persons, of which three-fourths are Maoists and the rest are the masses. I recommend that the institution of monarchy should have the legitimate power to govern the country. The King must come clean about his political aspirations and revive the Parliament and be prepared to discuss the situation any time.”
Jay Nishant, political analyst of Nepal, said it would be a disaster if the present King of Nepal, Shri Gyanendra, tended to cross the constitutional limits. He advocated that the situation in Nepal could be improved only by working out some kind of a compromise with the Maoist forces.
Concluding the seminar, the chief guest Dr Ashrafi Shah, who is former Union Minister of Nepal, said, “Hindi is the language of my heart. If Nepal burns, it is definitely going to hinder the progress of its bordering states.” He emphasised on the need for India to play an instrumental role in restoring peace and democracy in Nepal.
In his presidential remarks, K.G. Suresh, president of Indo-Nepal Young Journalists Association, said it was for the people of Nepal to sort out their internal problems. As a good neighbour, friend and brother, “India can at best lend a helping hand when sought.” K.G. Suresh compered and moderated the seminar.
