The Association of Nepali Teraian in America (ANTA) has noted with concern the continuing disruption of normal life in the Terai region of Nepal.

In a press statement issued by the association, the ANTA has said that it believes that the recent success of negotiations between the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) Government and the Communist Party of Nepal (M) leading to the promulgation of an Interim Constitution, Interim Parliament and the forthcoming Interim Government offers “the best opportunity ever to restructure the Nepali state so as to reflect the best interests and aspirations of all Nepalis, including the traditionally marginalized people of the Terai region.”

“ANTA firmly believes in democracy, fair political competition and proactive policies by national government as means to overcome the disadvantaged position in which the people of Terai have been relegated by the past regimes. Keeping a forward looking approach, ANTA sees the holding of the Constituent Assembly (CA) elections as central to forming an inclusive democratic system in Nepal,” the press statement adds.

The ANTA has urged all the political leaders and Nepali people to show highest levels of tolerance, restraint and accommodation at this critical juncture of political transition.

“Welcoming the statements, as reported in the media, by the government leaders as well as the leaders of both factions of Janatantrik Terai Mukti Morcha (JTMM) to engage in negotiations to resolve utstanding issues, we call for expedited negotiations to end violence and strengthen the democratic process,” the statement states.

The ANTA has also said that it shares the OHCHR-Nepal’s concern over the arrest of Madhesi activists and political party members and calls for their immediate release.

“In the best interest of Nepal’s national unity and democracy, ANTA also calls on the government to respond promptly to the legitimate demands of the people of Terai region including speedy distribution of citizenships to all those eligible population as the basis of representation, greater autonomy to the people of Terai region and better and visible representation of Terai people in all aspects of government.”

“ANTA firmly believes that the overall development of Terai can only result in a stronger Nepal,” states the statement issued by Dr. Binay Kumar Shah, President, ANTA – New York chapter.