India 145;disappointed146; at Nepal poll delay

India on friday expressed disappointment over postponement of the constituent assembly elections in Nepal, saying it would affect transition to democracy in the Himalayan nation.

8220;We are disappointed at the postponement of elections in Nepal, which has occurred for the third time. The repeated postponement of elections erodes credibility and affects the process of democratic transformation and legitimisation in Nepal,8221; the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said. He said India hoped that Special Session of the Interim Parliament would address all relevant issues to enable the people of Nepal to choose their own future and manner of governance through free and fair elections.

Nepal8217;s Constituent Assembly elections were deferred indefinitely as Maoists refused to budge from their key pre-conditions 8212; declaring the country a republic and changing the electoral system 8212; for taking part in the crucial polls.

The new poll date, which was earlier scheduled for November 22, is expected be decided at the next meeting of the ruling alliance.