View Point (Spotlight Weekly)

“India Consistently Advocates For Cooperation Among Constitutional Forces”

By Shyam Saran

Summary of remarks made by Mr. Shyam Saran, Ambassador of India to Nepal in an interaction with Media and Civic Leaders, at Birgunj on May 3, 2004.

On India’s position concerning the current political situation in Nepal:

India has consistently advocated mutual understanding and cooperation among the constitutional forces in Nepal, in particular, the institution of constitutional monarchy and political parties which form the basis of multiparty democracy. There can be no multiparty democracy without the key role of political parties.

On whether India does not have the responsibility to promote democracy in its neighborhood, since it is the world’s largest democratic republic:

India cannot export democracy to other countries. It is the people of any country who have to strive for safeguarding their democratic rights. As a democracy, India naturally extends its sympathy and support, but it cannot “impose” democracy from outside.

On Indian assistance at present:

Indian assistance to Nepal, whether for major infrastructure projects or for local community development projects, is for the benefit of the people of Nepal. It is not correct to say that important projects were not undertaken during the period of multiparty governments. The BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences at Dharan, the East-West Optical Fibre Network, the 22 bridges project on Mahendra Rajmarg, are some of the major assistance projects undertaken by India during the period of multiparty rule. Since 1947, when India became independent, India’s assistance to Nepal has been consistent and without being linked to the nature of government in either country. This is because our cooperation is for the welfare of the friendly people of Nepal. It would be counterproductive to reduce or stop assistance because of the nature of government in Nepal. Should India stop giving scholarships to Nepali students for higher studies in India? Should we stop constructing schools or hostels for girls in remote rural areas? How would this be of benefit to the ordinary people of Nepal?

On perception that India is seen as always interfering in Nepal:

I think that it is a sign of some kind of inferiority complex which a small minority of Nepali people have, a sign of a lack of confidence in their own country and people. It is not possible for India or any foreign entity to dictate changes in government or appoint or dismiss prime ministers in Nepal. Those who think so, or believe that India is about to swallow up Nepal, reflect their own prejudice and hostility towards India which does not correspond to ground reality.

On the undercurrent of hostility towards India:

This undercurrent that you are talking about is only in the minds of a small section of Nepal’s urban elite. I have traveled all over Nepal, in the Terai and the remote hill districts. Everywhere I have encountered the utmost warmth and friendly feeling towards India. In virtually every village, there are people who have worked several years in India, or still have family members in India. Today, there are many tens of thousands of Nepalis who are seeking refuge and sanctuary in India. Do they regard India with the undercurrent of hostility that you are talking about? Certainly not. How can they when India represents a friendly refuge for them. When misfortune befalls you, do you go to your friend for refuge or to your enemy? The sentiments of the ordinary people of Nepal, who have immense goodwill for India, is contrary to what a small minority thinks. I would also like to say that the greatest asset Nepal possesses is the goodwill its people enjoy among the people of India. Despite the fact that there are now several million Nepali citizens working and residing all over India, they are welcomed as our brothers and sisters. This goodwill should not be undermined by the actions of a handful of people or events like the Hrithik Roshan riots. Such elements must be confronted and prevented from harming the friendly feeling between our peoples.

On the role of the newly established Consulate General of India in Birganj:

This is an extremely important development, long overdue and will be a major contribution to the strengthening of cross-border links between our two countries. It will be able to provide a wide range of facilities for people residing in the border areas. We look upon the Terai and the people living in the Terai as a natural bridge between our two countries. We should pursue programs that benefit the people on both sides of the border. An integrated border development strategy will benefit the people of both countries. The projects we are considering for cross-border highway development, rail links and upgradation of major checkpoints, will be a major contribution in that direction.

On situation of press freedom in Nepal:

It would not be proper for me to comment on current developments, but I can say that for India, freedom of the press is an essential attribute of democracy. Nepali press is independent and has made a major contribution to the upholding of democratic values in the country. We believe the Nepali media is capable of safeguarding its freedom against any encroachments.