September 15: The Government of India has called on political forces in Nepal to continue to be flexible to address outstanding issues related to the constitution through dialogue and widest possible agreement, in an atmosphere free from violence.

The statement comes as the Constituent Assembly moves ahead to promulgate the new constitution on September 20, despite protests from the Madhes-based parties. 

“India is concerned over the ongoing protests and strife in several parts of Nepal. Horrific violence has once again shaken Nepal’s soul. Whether the victims are Nepali citizens or government officials, the blood spilt in all the incidents was Nepalese,” said the Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement. 

The ministry has said it welcomes and commends the recent progress achieved by the Constituent Assembly in the constitution-drafting process “wherein several contentious issues have been resolved.” 

It further says, “In this context, we urge continuing flexibility on the part of all the political forces so that any outstanding issues are addressed through dialogue and widest possible agreement, in an atmosphere free from violence.”