Indian ambassador to Nepal Shiv Shankar Mukherjee (File Photo)
Indian ambassador to Nepal, Shiv Shankar Mukherjee, has said constitutional monarchy should remain the symbol of unity, continuity and integrity of the nation and where necessary, should not compete with the political parties for political power.

In an exclusive interview with Frontline programme of the private-sector Kantipur Television Sunday evening, the Indian envoy said India had very high stakes in Nepal and was very concerned (over latest developments in the kingdom).

Terming the withdrawal of unilateral ceasefire by the Maoists last week as “unfortunate,” ambassador Mukherjee said, “(To our mind), ceasefire should have been extended, reciprocated by the government and made permanent. If everybody wants peace, they should stop the blame game.”

Saying that peace was the most important thing, Mukherjee said out of peace comes political settlement and economic stability.

Responding to a query by host of the popular talk-show, Bijay Kumar on the forthcoming municipal polls in Nepal, the Indian envoy said, “Though elections are fundamentals of democracy, it may not be credible in a situation where political parties are calling for its active boycott.”

“The most sane, non-violent and practical way out is for the palace to reach out to parties and together bring Maoists to mainstream,” said Mukherjee. When asked about alleged role of India in bringing the seven-party opposition alliance and Nepali Maoists together, the Indian envoy said (India) did not have any role in it. He, however, said, “We don’t want to interfere in contacts developing between parties and the Maoists.”

The confident but relaxed-looking career diplomat said the situation in Nepal had gone out of the point where finger-pointing was an answer. “We applaud anybody breaking the ice. I personally think His Majesty’s Government should start peace process (without further delay),” he added.

Ambassador Mukherjee warned that if the stalemate continued and if the gap continued to the point were it was unbridgeable, (Nepal) is in for more violence.

Responding to a query on the Indian embargo on arms supply to Nepal, ambassador Mukherjee said, “We had helped Royal Nepalese Army to battle insurgency. After February 1, 2005, it was no longer the previous situation.”

Ambassador Mukherjee refused to buy the argument that Nepal was trying to use “China card” against India. He, however, said, “We expect all members of the international community, including China, not to add to complications.”
When asked about reports that India might impose 1988-89 kind of trade embargo on Nepal when the now extended bilateral transit treaty expires (in the next three months), ambassador Mukherjee said those reports were unfounded. “We always have been and will be positive on issues that are linked to Nepalese economy,” he added.