Confidence Building
SOON after the formation of the new
government headed by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, there have been positive
indications that the Maoist insurgency would be solved peacefully. The government as well
as Maoist leadership have announced that all kinds of offensive activities from both sides
would be stopped in a bid to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue and negotiation
for political as well as peaceful solution of the problem. This in itself is a positive
sign towards ending the six-year old problem that has already claimed more than 1700 lives
and destroyed property worth millions of rupees in different parts of the country. The
insurgency has posed a serious challenge to Nepal’s peace, security and development.
As violence is not at the interest of the nation, it was imperative to solve the Maoist
insurgency and restore peace and security in the country as early as possible. Despite
repeated calls, Maoist insurgents had refused to come to the negotiating table in the
past. But situation has taken a dramatic turn after the new government was formed.
Responding the call of Prime Minister Deuba, Maoist leadership announced halt of all kinds
of offensive activities. This is, in deed, a positive step towards building peace and
ending violence in the country. His Majesty’s Government also decided to release 15
Maoist workers, who are currently in police custody or jails, as a gesture of good will to
create an atmosphere of confidence for the talks. As per the Home Ministry spokesman, the
government is also considering to withdraw cases against some Maoist workers. These are
some of the demands put forth by Maoist leadership for initiating the dialogue. As the
government has already responded positively to some the demands of the insurgents, similar
kind of gesture also needs to be shown by the Maoist rebels as some police personnel and
others are held captive for a long time. There is no alternative to a dialogue and
negotiation for the peaceful and permanent solution of the problem. The government is
sincere and serious for the talks and peaceful solution and has demonstrated enough
flexibility, which Prime Minister Deuba has repeatedly emphasized. Dialogue and talks can
be held only when both sides create an atmosphere of trust and confidence. Ball, now, is
in the court of Maoist leadership to create a genuine atmosphere of confidence to start
talks and solve the problem peacefully. The nation can no longer afford violence and
conflict. Thus, both sides should not miss this opportunity, which has recently been
created, for the best interest of the nation, people and democracy.
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