Sudip Pathak (File photo)
Sudip Pathak (File photo)
Based on information received from various conflict-hit districts, a member of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has predicted that massive armed clashes between the security forces and Maoists are likely sometime around Dashain and Tihar festivals (October) this year.
Speaking with media persons in western town of Pokhara last week, Pathak said he had enough hints of horrific armed clashes in near future.
“The Maoists are forcibly recruiting one person from every single household in their strongholds. They are ordering to manufacture bamboo baskets while their donation spree is on the rise,” Pathak said, “Dominance of guns will be seen in the days after Dashain and Tihar.”
The rebels use ‘doko’ or bamboo baskets to carry their wounded comrades after the clashes.
Pathak also accused the state of preparing for war with same speed. He, however, said he believed talks were the only resort to end conflict, the government’s war rhetoric notwithstanding. “Talks must be held for lasting peace, military power is no not a solution,” he added.
Dialogue between king and political parties is a must to achieve a solution to the problem and for this the king should invite parties for talks, he opined.
Pathak is leading a team of the NHRC is in the western region to take stock of the human rights situation there.