KATHMANDU, March 15: Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala on Sunday said the constitution drafting process would have already begun had there been consensus among the political parties. [break]
Talking to reporters in Kathmandu upon his arrival from a four-day trip to India, Koirala said Indian leaders during meetings with him said they want to see Nepal get a new constitution on time and restoration of lasting peace.
“My effort is to change the current equation in the government,” said Koirala, responding to a query whether he sees immediate possibility of government change. “My efforts are always toward establishing collaboration and unity among the parties.”
Koirala refuted reports that he was engaged in political consultations with Indian leaders. “I was there for treatment. I have many friends there including the prime minister. They came to see me. They were just courtesy calls,” said Koirala. “They wish timely formulation of constitution and restoration of peace just like us.”
Koirala also refuted the Maoist claims that he was intending to meet the former king. “Who is king?” he said. “If you are talking about former King, he has already become an ordinary citizen and I can meet him here in Nepal if I want.”
Koirala asked the Maoists not to panic over visits to India. “They seem panicked. They (Maoists) should understand that government cannot be run through timid mentality,” said Koirala.
Koirala also said it was not wise to seek Indian role in resolving problems in the Tarai. “It is our problem and we should find solution on our own,” said Koirala.
Koirala had left for India last Wednesday.
