SPA-UDMF talks end inconclusively

The meeting of the top leaders of Nepali Congress and UML with the negotiating Terai groups ended inconclusively after more than two-and-half hours of discussion at Baluwatar.

According to Hridesh Tripathi, a leader of the United Democratic Madhesi Front, the discussion ended without agreement due to lack of homework on the part of the ruling alliance.

He accused that the government was not serious towards meeting the demands of the Terai people.

Another leader Upendra Yadav told reporters after the meeting that they wanted to discuss the matter with Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, but could not do so as the PM did not attend the meeting.

The 6-point demands forwarded by the UDMF and the alleged police excesses in the Terai agitation were the major issues discussed with Home Minister who was present during the meeting.

The Madhesi leaders expressed hope that the government would invite them for further discussion on their demands but affirmed to continue their agitation until it was met.

Earlier, both the ruling alliance and Terai leaders had expressed hope that their discussion will lead to a constructive conclusion.

The top leaders of the UML, NC and Maoists had also held separate meeting regarding the demands raised by Madhesi leaders. nepalnews.com ia Feb 22 08

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