TMLP to launch protests Sunday

Kathmandu, 20 Jan: Terai Madesh Loktantrik Party (TMLP) launched two –week protests to press demands in the south bordering India Sunday. Party chairperson Mahana Thakur has threatened to launch what he called decisive protests to fulfill 11 demands including autonomy and self-determination—a virtual declaration of independence. Madesh Janatantrik Forum and the Rajendra Mahoto faction of the NSP (D) has also announced a joint protest from Wednesday to press regional demands saying the 10 April assembly election can’t be held without first meeting demands of the south. Seven parties and government last week agreed election isn’t possible without a negotiated settlement of the terai demands; yet their leaders at their second meeting in Biratnagar Saturday said the vote will be held on schedule. Government and seven parties have asked rebel groups to come to then negotiating table Daily violence continued unabated in the region.

Maoist Chairman Prachanda, meanwhile, charged and reiterated 'foreign imperialists' are trying to spread communal violence and feeling to eliminate Maoists.He didn’t name the foreigners this time but has previously identified Indians and Americans.‘But whatever the conspiracies, nobody can stop assembly elections," he said. Meanwhile, Federal Limbuwan State Council rejected government offer of talks as its Chairman Kumar Lingden said talks with government are just ‘ a waste of time’. The Council is demanding proportional representation election and regional autonomy for the hills.