Wait & watch MEA stand on Nepal Maoists

However, the position of the monarch is difficult.

The Maoists have been pressing for a new constitution drafted by a newly elected constituent assembly. This could eventually lead to the monarch being reduced to a titular head, while the country defines itself as a republic.

“We have seen newspaper reports about an understanding between the maoists and the political parties in nepal for the restoration of multi-party democracy and the return to political normalcy,” external affairs ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna said.

India said it has all along maintained that there is ‘‘no purely military solution’’ to the challenges facing Nepal, including the Maoist insurgency. New Delhi has on one hand urged the institution of monarchy to work together with the political parties and at the same time, has demanded that Maoists abandon violence.

An MEA spokesperson said the Maoists should ‘‘accept the discipline of multi-party democracy’’ and work for a political settlement that contributes to political stability. ‘‘It remains to be seen whether the Maoists are genuinely prepared to live up to their commitments and refrain from acts of violence and extortion,’’ the spokesperson said.

As nepal’s close and friendly neighbour, he said, India hoped that conditions of peace and stability and economic development will soon be restored in the country with “sincere efforts and contributions of all concerned”.