Nepal leader seeks Indian views on unity move

The Solidarity Committee, and especially the Indian Left, has been playing an effective behind-the-scenes role to bring the negotiators closer. The Nepalese minister accompanied G P Koirala on his state visit but stayed back on the Nepal prime minister8217;s request in order to meet Yechury. He sought the opinion of the Indian leaders on ways to 8216;8216;honourably and reasonably8217;8217; unite the two parties, given their strength in Parliament.

Sources said one of the issues holding up talks between the Maoists and the Koirala government is the question of rebels laying down arms. The Koirala government insists that the Maoists disarm before elections to the constituent assembly. The Maoists, in turn, want the reinstated Parliament to be dissolved and elections to the constituent assembly to be held.