"The Maoists this time have shown flexibility in discussions on contentious issues related to the peace process," said the member about ongoing close-door discussions of the taskforce, which has been mandated to prepare the modality for integration and rehabilitation and set the norms for integration. [break]
The taskforce has met twice, including a three-hour meeting on Friday, since it was formed by the Special Committee on Wednesday. But taskforce members are not forthcoming on details about the ongoing discussions.
"The taskforce is close to an understanding that the Maoist combatants should be integrated into the security agencies," said the member.
The Maoists have been demanding the formation of a separate force of over 19,000 Maoist combatants, despite opposition from the Nepali Congress and Madhesi parties. Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal and Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal had agreed in their controversial seven-point deal of February 3 to form a separate force of Maoist combatants.
According to the taskforce member, the taskforce has decided to send back for finalization the rehabilitation package prepared by the secretariat under the Special Committee.
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