Maoists, UML say no to key demands of Terai parties

The Maoists and the CPN (UML) have rejected the main demands of Terai-based parties.

Top leaders of the two communist parties met Sunday morning to form a common position on the Terai parties' demand for single Madhesh province and 'group entry' of Madhesis into the army.

UML leader Bhim Rawal, who was present at the meeting held at the Nayabazaar residence of Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', said the two parties have decided to stand against these demands, but they are ready to back all other demands put forward by the Terai-based parties.

Maoist and UML leaders are to hold separate discussions today with Madhesi leaders on how the stalemate in the Constituent Assembly could be resolved.

According to Rawal, the two parties have stressed that the current deadlock should be resolved by means of dialogue.

The Maoist and UML leaders are also known to have discussed the election of the president. The Maoist side has already agreed to give the presidency to the UML, but the name of the presidential candidate is yet to be agreed upon