The government has once again asked all the agitating groups to come to the table to resolve the problems amicably.

According to Minister for Information and Communication Krishna Bahadur Mahara, a meeting of the Council of Ministers today renewed its call for talks with the agitating groups.

Talking to reporters after the meeting held at the PMO in Singha Durbar, Mahara said the cabinet also decided to direct the government agencies to maintain tight security during bandhs (general strikes) and urged the businessmen and ordinary people to carry out their normal businesses. He said the government would provide compensation for the damages caused during bandhs.

The government renewed its talks offer in the wake of continuous bandh called by different groups in Terai region and frequent disruptions of vehicular traffic at different places around the country.

Today’s cabinet meeting decided to set up a high-level panel chaired by a Madhesi representative to probe the loss of lives and property in recent agitations in Terai.

Minister Mahara, who is the government spokesperson, informed that the cabinet meeting also decided to fill senior administrative posts that remain vacant for some time.

Similarly, the meeting discussed the controversy over the guard of honour provided by the Nepal Army to King Gyanendra during his visit to the Dakshinkali temple on the Democracy Day April 24. “The cabinet has decided to inquire about this issue,” Mahara said.

Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala had left the cabinet meeting after some time because of his poor health.