Speaking at a gala function hosted in his honor by Nepal Democratic Solidarity Committee, India, on Monday evening, Dr Yadav said, “We must learn from India where democracy is refined,” adding, “Much has not been achieved as we have not been able to stabilize democracy.”[break]
Addressing the gathering, which comprised imminent Indian politicians of the likes of Murlimanohar Joshi, Sarad Pawar, DP Triparthy, Janardan Dwedi, Harsh Vardhan and others, the president said, “As most Nepali political leaders of the time were themselves active in the Indian independence movement, we obviously drew a great deal of inspiration from the Indian experience as one of the best models of liberal democracy in action in any third world country.”
He also stressed on “periodic elections” to ensure continued public endorsement.
Thanking the Indian side for extending cooperation to Nepal´s development efforts, he said, “The government and the Nepali people greatly value the invaluable support and cooperation from India in the quest for socio-economic transformation of our country. It is our firm belief that the areas of future cooperation between our two countries will be further broadened and deepened for mutual benefit of our people.”
Stressing that there is no space for violence and threat in politics, Dr Yadav said, “My visit to India this time also coincided with the anniversary of martyrdom of Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of peace, freedom and non-violence,” adding, “I pay my glowing tribute to Gandhiji for his avowed and life-long adherence to non-violent struggle for the cause of independence, democracy and freedom. It is my firm belief that his method of peaceful resistance for justice and freedom is more relevant in the present-day world, which has seen indiscriminate violence, bloodshed and retribution.”
He also assured the participants that Nepal will complete the peace process and constitution drafting in the near future. In this context, he said, “Nepal is at the most crucial political transition since momentous changes in the country in 2006. We are committed for the success and sustenance of the historic political development and peace process and writing a new constitution guaranteeing rule of law, pluralist democracy, human rights, and fundamental freedoms of our people. “
He added that Nepal looks forward to “greater support and understanding” from India.
The committee has been in the forefront in supporting Nepal´s struggle for democracy and political pluralism. It was founded in New Delhi in 2005.
Also speaking on the occasion, leaders like Vardhan, Triparthy and Dwedi lauded the president´s efforts and “timely interventions” to ensure smoothness in the peace process in Nepal.
The event was also attended by prominent civil society members, academicians and senior journalists of India.
The president also launched the quarterly edition of the journal "Think India" published by Nepal Democratic Solidarity Committee, India.
Yadav reached New Delhi on Monday after attending a function in Calcutta and a pilgrimage trip to Tirupati. He is scheduled to hold high-level talks on Wednesday.
President Yadav also held separate consultations with Dr Karan Singh and DB Triparthy before the function.
The president on Tuesday evening met BJP senior leader Lal Krishna Advani, CPI (M) leaders A B Vardhan and Sitaram Yechuri and Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao at ITC Maurya in New Delhi.
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