Editorial (Spotlight Weekly)

The third round of peace talks between the Maoists and the Thapa government, as expected, have not been conclusive. But, they must be seen as being conducive to further talks. Despite Surya Bahadur Thapa's tall claims that he is both de jure and de facto prime minister, neither the Nepali people nor the Maoists are fully convinced that he has the unchallengeable mandate to rule the country at this critical juncture. At a time when the country needs a spotlessly clean strong and patriotic man at the helms of affairs, his unsavory and shady background and the dubious influences that promoted his appointment have proved to be a big stumbling block for him to win public support and cooperation. Moreover, his total disregard of the royal directive to embrace as many political parties as possible in his government has only contributed to strengthen general misgiving about his motives and intentions. If the Maoist leadership is not much enthused to continue the important dialogues with his government they should not be blamed. They would, indeed, prefer a government of men with faultless credentials that can withstand all uncalled for pressures, whether domestic or alien, and command respect both at home and abroad. Since it is practically impossible for King Gyanendra to form such a government with the horde of corrupt and anti-national politicians that are vying to go to power to nourish their vile self interests, there is no option for him except to appoint a government of men of impeccable integrity that will finalize the peace deal with the Maoists and prepare the ground for the government, that will conduct the general elections, to take over. We have, time and again, warned the Maoists not to associate with the discredited politicians lest they too be tarred with similar brushes. Since only a truly representative government can safeguard democracy, the top most priority the country faces, at the moment, is the general elections that will open the doors of the parliament that only can ensure an accountable administration. Consequently, the Maoist leaders have to continue the peace talks with the Thapa or any other government that is appointed by King Gyanendra as all governments, in the present circumstances, emanate from him. Since the Maoists have made the correct decision not to revert to violent insurgency, they must cooperate with the patriotic democratic forces so that the next general elections will rout all the quislings and corrupt politicians and usher in an era of comparatively cleaner and committed administration which will contribute to achieve the dreams for which the Maoists took up arms against the state.

* * *

The recent concerns shown by India over what they prefer to call "outside interference in Nepal" has not only caused great surprise in the minds of Nepali people but also helped to strengthen the Nepali misgivings regarding her unabashed domineering behavior. Nepal as a sovereign independent country can always ask for any kind of help from her good friends. Had India been able to generate respect in the hearts of the poor Nepalese, perhaps, they would never look up to other friends further away. But India has miserably failed not only to win over smaller Nepal but also not been able to instill any confidence in her mind. The greater pity is that all of India's smaller neighbors suffer from similar psyche. And India unfortunately persists on maintaining the colonial mind-set. Had it not been for India's blatant support to the Maoists, Nepal would not have been embroiled in such a devastating civil war. Despite her vociferous protestations about age old and traditional friendship, Nepali people are fully aware of the countless unfriendly acts from a friendly neighbor. But this, latest endeavor of India to influence Nepal's good friends not to come to Nepal's assistance has not only exposed her sinister designs but also unmasked her long time policy towards Nepal. Not that the knowledgeable Nepalis are not aware of South Block's attitude towards Nepal. But as a smaller neighbor they are always conscious not to violate the "Lakshman Rekha" dictated by her physical vulnerability. As such, had not the Indians forced Nepal to look beyond for help, perhaps, she would not have done so. But, since she needs all kinds of help and cooperation to tide over the present calamity, she has to exhort her good friends and even the United Nations to come to her rescue. Nepal would like to make similar request to India also. India would do well to reconsider her stance and stop providing overt or covert help or cooperation to the Maoist insurgents. If they do not want to directly help Nepal, they should, at least, refrain from exacerbating the volatile situation. They must not fail to realize that chaos and lawlessness in neighboring countries are apt to spill over into their own. As such, India has to forsake her double standard as far her smaller friend Nepal is concerned and practise what they profess. That only will help them to win small Nepal's gratitude and goodwill.