No credits for India

In realising its commitment to give the Nepalese economy a fresh impetus, India suddenly finds itself encountering more resistance than expected. Last week, after a hectic bidding exercise, the GMR group won the contract to build a 300 MW power plant in Upper Karnali district of Nepal. The decision sparked off a round of agitation, with allegations that Kathmandu had given in to pressures from New Delhi. Disenchanted Maoist cadres took to the streets, worrying India about what it had to do to please all. Especially when the GMR group has agreed to give 12 per cent free power as well as deposit a big sum with the Nepal Government before starting work. Last heard, all back channels with Maoist leaders were being activated to somehow keep this protest localised.