The Defence Ministry condemned  the “inhuman and irresponsible” abductions of two soldiers from Makawanpur district recently, the Defence Ministry said Thursday. A search still continues for them.

The “inhuman” abductions raise doubts about the “sincerity” of the rebels while at the same time the rebels claim security forces have violated the code of conduct by its “defensive” actions, the Ministry said.

Maoists have ignored government commitment to peace talks and created confusion by unsubstantiated claims by Maoists leaders, the statement said. The Defence Ministry asked the rebels to immediately release the abducted soldiers and honour the code of conduct signed by the government and the rebels.

“If such activities continue, in the greater interest of the nation, the security forces will be compelled to act within the parameters set by law,” the statement warned. The statement made no mention of rebel attacks on the Army in Surkhet and Sindhuli killing two soldiers and injuring two others this week.

Government has not received its offer for talks in reply to a rebel ultimatum to fulfill five demands by Thursday night.