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Political parties demand restoration of democracy in Nepal

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

New Delhi, Feb 25, IRNA -- A convention of major political parties, 
barring the NDA constituents, came together Thursday to demand 
restoration of democracy in Nepal and condemn the "authoritarian" 
action of King Gyanendra in seizing power. 
A demand was also voiced by the convention that the Government 
should make efforts to see that there was "full freedom" in Nepal. 
Senior leaders and representatives of 17 parties, including 
Congress, CPI(M), CPI, Forward Bloc, CPI(ML), RSP,Janata Dal(Secular),
Samajwadi Party, Rashtriya Lok Dal, Samajwadi Janata Party and RJD, 
gathered under the banner of Nepal Democracy Unity Commuttee(India) to
express solidarity with people and democratic forces in Nepal in 
their struggle against the monarchy. 
The convention passed a resolution demanding withdrawal of 
emergency in Nepal, immediate release of all political detainees and 
restoration of democracy, freedom of speech and the press. 
It also asked the Indian Government "not to take any step which 
will give political legitimacy to the present authoritarian regime in 
Nepal." 
Former Prime Ministers V P Singh and Chandra Shekhar were also 
present at the convention, attended by representatives of several 
Nepalese political parties. 
Speaking on the occasion, CPI(M) General Secretary Harkishan Singh
Surjeet said the challenge posed by King Gyanendra`s decision on 
February one to take over the reins of power also presented an 
opportunity for people there to strive to achieve "full freedom". 
"Our Government should also try to see that our neighbour attains 
full freedom and we will support its actions in this regard," he said.
Chandra Shekhar said "the conditions in Nepal did not deteriorate 
suddenly, but India did not pay proper attention to it. "However, we 
are happy that the Indian Government has stopped arms supply to Nepal 
and openly condemned King Gyanendra`s move." 
Congress spokesman Anand Sharma said the fighting among political 
parties in Nepal was partly responsible for the present crisis. 
"But now unity is visible and is sure to yield results," he 
added. 
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