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Incidents and Statments involving Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist 2015

Date

Place
Incident

Nature of incident

January 1

Kathmandu

At a meeting of the CA's BAC, CA Chairman Subash Nembang proposed that he be granted the right to issue a draft of the Constitution, if the political parties fail to forge consensus on disputed issues within four days. According to leaders present in the meeting, NC and CPN-UML indirectly backed CA Chair Nembang's proposal, while UCPN-M and Madheshi parties' front said that the proposal was unacceptable.

Non-Violent

January 2

Kathmandu

CA Chairman Subas Nembang's proposal for entrusting him with the task of preparing a preliminary draft of the new constitution has received mixed reactions from the ruling and opposition parties. Though the main opposition UCPN-M rejected his idea, the ruling NC and CPN-UML have approved of it.

Non-Violent
January 4

Kathmandu

Concluding that there are slim chances of agreement among parties, the 30-party alliance led by the UCPN-M decided to further strengthen the protest program announced earlier, saying that the ruling NC and CPN-UML are in favor of enforcing the statute through two-third majority. The opposition alliance came up with the plan with a day remaining for conclusion of deliberations at the CA on the report tabled by the CPDCC. Member of the alliance RK Khusbu informed that the alliance will protest if the new constitution is promulgated through majority votes.

Non-Violent
January 5

Kathmandu

UCPN-M leadership presented a common proposal, of the party-led thirty-party front, at a meeting of the four major parties. On the matter of state restricting, the concept paper has mentioned that there would be ten provinces in total. Likewise, in terms of form of governance, the concept paper has proposed division of power between directly elected president and parliament-elected prime minister along with a mixed electoral system.

Non-Violent
January 5

Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said that the chances of confrontation in the CA are growing as the ruling parties are preparing to move ahead bypassing them on the constitution writing course. In a meeting of the 30-party alliance, that he leads, Dahal said CPN-UML Chairman KP Oli in particular wanted to promulgate the constitution by January 22 in his rush to "ascend to power". Dahal informed his allies that though there were positive indications no solid foundation had been laid for cross-party agreement on the disputes.

Non-Violent
January 6

Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Major political parties have started discussion on an alternative (date) for January 22, the stipulated date for promulgation of new constitution. A meeting between NC, UCPN-M and Madheshi parties' front was held at the PM's Baluwatar residence. According to leaders involved in the discussion process, parties started discussion on an alternative at a time when the CA's work-schedule (calendar) has already been affected. There is confusion at all quarters regarding the date of constitution promulgation after the parties have not been able to forge consensus on disputed issues. The parties are now making preparation to bring a draft of the constitution on January 22 and side by side announce a new date for promulgation of the constitution.

Non-Violent
January 6

Baluwatar / Kathmandu

The ruling coalition partners NC and CPN-UML are all set to hold a 'decisive talks' with the UCPN-M-led 30-party alliance, on making efforts to bring the draft of constitution on the slated date. The meeting of NC and CPN-UML held at Prime Minister's official residence in Baluwatar, evening took the decision to hold a decisive meeting with the opposition alliance.

Non-Violent
January 7

Kathmandu

In what could be a positive step for promulgating a constitution within the deadline, Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, Chairperson of the UCPN-M, has said that he would not be a hurdle for issuing a constitution on the stipulated date of January 22, 2015.

Non-Violent
January 7

New Baneshwar / Kathmandu

Top leaders of the four major political forces have discussed sending the disputes over constitution making back to the CPDCC of the CA for a few days for seeking consensus. The chiefs of the four major political forces discussed the option as they have failed to settle the major contentious issues through consensus. PM Sushil Koirala from NC, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda and Bijay Gachchhadar from the Madhes-based parties attended the meeting. "We are ready to send the disputes anywhere, be it to the CPDCC or any other place, if that helps produce a new constitution by January 22," Oli told reporters while emerging from the meeting held at the CA hall at New Baneshwar, Kathmandu.

Non-Violent
January 8

Kathmandu

Three major political parties, the NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M have agreed to return the report containing disputed issues of the new constitution back to CPDCC. A meeting of the three parties has decided to request CA Chairman Subash Nembang to send the report back to the CPDCC, in a bid to seek consensus.

Non-Violent
January 10

Baluwatar / Kathmandu

In a joint meeting with ruling NC and CPN-UML at PM Sushil Koirala's official residence at Baluwatar, Kathmandu, the smaller parties represented in the CA have suggested the NC and CPN-UML to be highly flexible, but without reaching unnecessary agreements with the opposition parties including UCPN-M and Madhesi Morcha, for issuing a constitution.

Non-Violent
January 12 Dhanusha District / Kathmandu

Bandh enforced by the UCPN-M-led 30-party alliance and the CPN-Maoist, in several parts of the country turned violent. In Janakpur, a protester identified as Rajaram Jha (25), died at Bhramarpurachok in Dhanusha District. Bandh organisers claimed that Jha died due to Police brutality. Police, however, dismissed the claim and said the victim was found unconscious on the street and was taken to hospital. Clashes also erupted in Jhapa, Siraha and Dhanusha. In Parsa, protesters vandalised half-a-dozen vehicles, some shops and ATM booths for defying their general strike. Normal life was affected in Tarai, western, mid-western and far-western Districts as transport was disrupted while marketplaces and educational institutions remained closed.

Violent
January 14 Kathmandu

The NC CWC, decided to ask the CA to make decisions on the proposals that the CPDCC presented, and forward them to the Constitution Drafting Committee. The CA meeting has been called on January 16. After it failed to convince the major parties to forge consensus on crucial issues of new constitution, the CPDCC-led by UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai had submitted its report, which incorporates several proposals floated by different political parties to it earlier, to CA Chairman Subas Chandra Nembang on January 13. The report was later presented to the CA meeting. The NC further urged the UCPN-M and other parties to cancel their protest programmes, including general shutdown, and focus on the constitution-drafting instead.

Non-Violent
January 14 Kathmandu

The FRA led by UCPN-M discussed their protest strategies within and outside CA and also discussed how they could collaborate with Mohan Baidya-led CPN-Maoist and Janajati forces, including Padmaratna Tuladhar-led Indigenous Nationalities' National Movement.

Non-Violent
January 15 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M is preparing to intensify protests within the CA and on the streets as the January 22 constitution promulgation deadline approaches. The opposition party also urged the ruling coalition to suspend its plan of settling contentious issues through a vote in the CA arguing that the document of far-reaching consequence should be drafted on the basis of consensus among the major stakeholders.

Non-Violent
January 15 Paris Danda / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda kept himself busy throughout the day holding meetings with the opposition alliance in a bid to make the alliance of opposition parties stronger in CA and the streets. He held discussions with lawmakers, office bearers and standing committee members of his party in party headquarters Paris Danda, Kathmandu.

Non-Violent
January 15 Kathmandu

When the UCPN-M and Madhes-centric parties are putting up a united front against the ruling NC and CPN-UML, the Madhesi parties are also mulling over separate Madhes-specific programmes. Madhesi leaders say that even though they have been in alliance with the main opposition party, it is not necessary that the Maoists and they see eye to eye on every issue.

Non-Violen
January 16 Kathmandu

Outside the CA, the UCPN-M has formed an alliance with the breakaway CPN-Maoist and Janajati groups and organisations to bolster its position through street agitation. The party is against the idea of preparing a questionnaire on the disputed issues for clause-wise voting in the Assembly. As the CA chairman intends to form a special taskforce to prepare the questionnaire, the party said it would not accept the move.

Non-Violent
January 16 Lalitpur District / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda instructing party leaders and cadres in Lalitpur District assured party cadres of foiling any attempt to promulgate the new constitution through voting process in the CA.

Non-Violent
January 18 Kathmandu

The 19-party block led by UCPN-M has insisted on forging consensus rather than going for voting on disputed issues and warned of consequences if the ruling NC and CPN-UML went ahead with the voting process. During the discussion on the CPDCC report in the CA, lawmakers representing the Maoists and Madhesi parties insisted on consensus.

Non-Violent
January 19

Kathmandu

The meeting of Parliamentary BAC hit a deadlock after the ruling and opposition parties locked their horns over whether or not to go for CA process. The proposals tabled at the meeting to constitute a committee to prepare on the disputed issues of constitution drafting have been turned down by the opposition parties including the UCPN-M and Madhesi parties.

Non-Violent
January 20

Kathmandu

The standoff in the CA continued, a day after the Assembly saw members belonging to the UCPN-M and allies on the rampage following the CA chairman's call to table a proposal to form a questionnaire committee. The 19-party alliance continued to protest the bid to table the proposal. CA members, however, confined themselves to the well of the Assembly Hall.

Non-Violent
January 21

Kathmandu

Leaders of the NC and CPN-UML said that it has become impossible to release the new constitution on January 22 deadline because of the hindrance posed by the UCPN-M and Madhes-based parties. CPN-UML senior leader Jhala Nath Khanal said "There can't be any agreements against the national unity and sovereignty. The promulgation of new constitution tomorrow (January 22) seems unlikely. We will draft the constitution within a month."

Non-Violent
January 22

Kathmandu

Despite repeated attempts, the ruling NC and its alliance partner CPN-UML as also the main opposition UCPN-M and Madhesh-based parties failed to reach a consensus on issues ranging from federalism, form of government, judiciary and electoral system, which made the constitution elusive. This is a second time that the parties in Nepal failed to deliver a new constitution. The CA elected in 2008 was dissolved in May 2012 without a new charter. The second CA was elected in 2013 and at its first meeting on January 21, 2014, it resolved to draft the country's new constitution within a year, by January 22. Nepal's parties had agreed to draft a new constitution by signing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2006, which ended a 10-year-old insurgency.

Non-Violent
January 22

Kathmandu

Senior UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai has apologised to the people for failing to deliver the new constitution on time as promised. "As per the commitment to promulgate the new constitution, I take the responsibility on my part and apologise from my heart," he said in a statement.

Non-Violent
January 23

Kathmandu

Amid the ruling parties' firm position to initiate the voting process "unilaterally", the opposition bloc led by the UCPN-M has warned that it could take the extreme step of walking out of the CA. With CA Chairman Subas Nembang stating, that January 25 meeting would be decisive in initiating the voting process for deciding the contentious issues of statute writing, opposition leaders said they will not accept any proposal in the CA without agreement with them. Maoist leaders said it would be easier for them to walk out of the CA process rather than "abandon their progressive agendas".

Non-Violent
January 26 Kathmandu

PM Sushil Koirala made a telephone call to UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda and urged him to sit for talks. Dahal is said to have asked the PM to bring out a concrete proposal for consensus. A meeting of the ruling parties had assigned the PM to hold talks with the opposition parties in order to seek consensus on the key issues of the new constitution. Dahal, made it clear to the PM that it would be difficult for the opposition to come to the negotiating table until the ruling parties corrected their decision to move ahead with the majority process in the CA.

Non-Violent

January 26 Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

CA Chairman Subas Nembang has scheduled the first meeting of the CA’s proposal drafting committee for January 31. Nembang’s move comes a day after he announced the formation of the committee at the CA plenary on January 25, amidst sloganeering by UCPN-M and other opposition lawmakers. “I have scheduled the committee’s first meeting for January 31,” Nembang told reporters at his chamber at Singha Durbar, Kathmandu.

Non-Violent

January 26 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M led 30-party opposition alliance has announced a series of protest against the majority process started by the ruling parties for bringing a new constitution. A meeting of the alliance, decided to go to the people to demand withdrawal of the majoritan move of the ruling coalition. The alliance has said it will hold peaceful interaction, protest, and sit-ins for a month till Febuary-28.

Non-Violent

January 26 Kathmandu

Netra Bikram Chand-led CPN-M has urged the UCPN-M to quit the CA. Issuing a press statement, Chand has appealed to the UCPN-M to go to the people and prepare for struggling for bringing a "people´s constitution" through broader political consensus.

Non-Violent

January 27 Kathmandu

The ruling partners in the CA, the NC and CPN-UML, respectively, have urged the main opposition UCPN-M including other parties in its alliance for positive support and cooperation in the constitution drafting process. The alliance headed by the UCPN-M resorted to violent activities and chose the way of strike and shutdown in instead of coming to a consensus. But still we, with a great patience and sense of responsibility, have focused on democratic system, the ruling parties claimed in the statement.

Non-Violent

January 27 Kathmandu

As the UCPN-M clings to the faint hope that there would finally be consensus, its breakaway faction CPN-Maoist, led by Mohan Baidya, sees no hope at all. “With the minimal representation of the progressive forces in the CA, the UCPN-M is not in a strong bargaining position,” CPN-Maoist Secretary Dev Gurung said, adding, “They can only create pressure by staging street protests.”

Non-Violent

January 28 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M, has decided to boycott the meetings of all parliamentary committees to press the ruling NC and CPN-UML, into resolving the disputed issues of constitution writing through consensus. The party has already announced that it will not be attending the meeting of the Questionnaire Committee formed despite protests from the opposition to settle the disputes, as the parties failed to issue a new constitution by the January 22 deadline.  The UCPN-M Parliamentary Party meeting, concluded that there was no point attending the meetings of the parliamentary committees when the ruling parties were trying to bypass the opposition parties in the constitution drafting process. The decision of the Maoist party announcing street protests to exert pressure on the ruling coalition will affect the functions of more than one dozen parliamentary committees.

Non-Violent

January 29 Kathmandu

The CPN-UML standing committee meeting decided to ask the UCPN-M-led opposition alliance to sit for interparty talks to end the stalemate constitution writing. The ruling party described the decision to form the Proposal Drafting Committee as a positive development in constitution making although the opposition parties have threatened to boycott the CA over the issue. The ruling parties had decided to form the committee amid protest by opposition lawmakers. 

Non-Violent

January 29 Kathmandu

UCPN-M senior leader Baburam Bhattarai, speaking at the Reporters Club Nepal, has said that consensus is still possible if the parties decide not to go voting to settle disputed issues in constitution writing and promulgate a new constitution through majority. Bhattarai, however, said that fruitful talks with the ruling parties are not possible unless the latter decides not to bring new constitution through the majority process. The 19-party alliance led by the UCPN-M has decided not to sit for talks with the ruling parties, unless the latter agrees to settle the disputed issues in constitution writing through consensus.

Non-Violent

January 29 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda accused the ruling parties of trying to sideline the party in the constitution drafting process. Presenting a report on the current political scenario in the country, Dahal said the ruling parties were deliberately trying to force the UCPN-M into quitting the CA. He, however, said that his party would not walk out of the CA as it was his party that had demanded election to the CA to draft a new constitution.

Non-Violent

January 30 Lazimpat / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said, that the opposition front his party leads finds it hard to sit with the ruling parties for talks without first scrapping the Questionnaire Committee formed to prepare for voting on the disputed issues. In an unplanned meeting with Prime Minister Sushil Koirala at his residence in Lazimpat, Dahal urged the NC chief to create an environment for consensus through dialogue with the ruling NC and CPN-UML.

Non-Violent

February 1 Perisdanda / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M has warned the NC and CPN-UML not to push it to the brink by going ahead unilaterally in the constitution drafting process. If the ruling parties continue to sideline them and try to draft the new constitution on the basis of their numerical strength in the CA, said party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda in a press conference at the party headquarters, Perisdanda, Kathmandu, such circumstances could force them to opt out of the CA process altogether.

Non-Violent

February 2

Kathmandu

The fourth-largest RPP-N boycotted the committee meeting after the ruling parties turned down its proposal to prepare questions on federalism, republicanism and secularism. The UCPN-M and Madhes-based parties are outside the committee stating that they do not support a majority approach in constitution drafting. Out of the 31 parties in the CA, 20 have expressed dissatisfaction at the committee.

Non-Violent
February 2

Kathmandu

Top UCPN-M leaders - Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, Baburam Bhattarai and Narayan Kaji Shrestha - are set to leave Kathmandu to lead the protests in the central, western and eastern region respectively. The three leaders will go in their constituencies as decided by party's Central Committee on February 3, leaders said. Dahal, Bhattarai and Shrestha held the meeting of their respective commands.

Non-Violent
February 3

Kathmandu

CPN-UML Chairman K. P. Sharma Oli said that the constitution will be promulgated even if the UCPN-M-led opposition alliance does not come on board the constitution drafting process. Oli made it clear that his party is working on the foreground of constitution drafting rather than for government.

Non-Violent
February 3

Kathmandu

PM Sushil Koirala said that the constitution drafting process will not stop at any cost. He said the constitution drafting process will not stop because of threats, brags, and blackmails from the UCPN-M. "The obstruction caused in the constitution drafting process has been criticised and rejected ubiquitously. They [oppositions] don't want to forge consensus and try to blackmail us when we ask them for an agreement…As the prime minister, I have raised myself above party politics and even gatecrashed Prachanda's [Pushpa Kamal Dahal] party meeting for talks. But he put a condition of dissolving the Questionnaire Committee. Who am I to dissolve a committee formed by the CA [Constituent Assembly]? I replied him [Dahal] I don't have the authority to dissolve it," Koirala said. Koirala made it clear that no meetings will be held with pre-conditions and the constitution will be promulgated even through process.

Non-Violent
February 3

Kathmandu

The CPN-Maoist-Baidya has decided to join forces with other agitating parties to launch a joint protest against the ongoing constitution writing process. It said that it could also forge an agenda-based alliance with the main opposition, UCPN-M. In a political document tabled at the party's central committee meeting on February 1, CPN-Maoist-Baidya Chairman Mohan Baidya said that the party's relations with other protesting forces will depend on their agendas.

Non-Violent
February 4

Kathmandu

After two-and-a-half years of party split, the Central Committee meeting of the Mohan Baidya-led CPN-Maoist has formally decided to approach the UCPN-M for reunification. The CPN-Maoist that had boycotted the election to the second CA has also urged the UCPN-M to quit the CA and join forces with them against the existing system.

Non-Violent
February 6

Shital Niwas / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M Chairman and Coordinator of the opposition alliance Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda during a meeting held at Shital Niwas, informed President Ram Baran Yadav that their protest was a compulsion as ruling parties NC and CPN-UML started working unilaterally. The UCPN-M Chairman remarked that the ruling parties have not initiated any stern efforts for consensus, and said that they had no option than to hold programs of protest.

Non-Violent
February 8

Siraha / Kathmandu

Talking to journalists at the District headquarters Siraha, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda has said that his alliance was ready to sit for a dialogue if the ruling parties created trustworthy environment for the same. Chairman Dahal also said that the environment conducive for talks would be created if the government sent a letter inviting them for a dialogue. He said that the country would go on the way to conflict if the ruling parties did not stop constitution drafting process on the basis of majority. It was unfortunate that the constitution drafting process has been taken ahead by ignoring the spirit of past agreements held among the parties.

Non-Violent
February 11 Mahendranagar / Kanchanpur District

UCPN-M senior leader Baburam Bhattarai, addressing a press conference organized by the Revolutionary Journalists Association in Mahendranagar in Kanchanpur District, has said that the new constitution could be issued only on the consensus among the four major forces. Bhattarai said consensus has become elusive because the leadership of the NC and CPN-UML were averse to institutionalizing the change. He called on the ruling parties to put on hold the process if it was not possible for them to scrap the Proposal Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly altogether. Bhattarai said the opposition alliance could sit for dialogue or talks if the NC and CPN-UML or the PM issued another public statement addressing the alliance´s new demand, describing the PM´s last statement as lacking concreteness.

Non-Violent
February 12 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda has warned of running a parallel government at the center if the ruling parties move ahead with the process of bringing a majority-based constitution. Addressing a program organized to announce a joint youth volunteer force, Dahal said he would ask the UN and the international community as to which government is a legitimate one after forming a parallel government at the center. Accusing the ruling NC and CPN-UML of going against the spirit of past accords and the peace process, Dahal claimed that his party would set up a force of one million youth volunteers after February 28.

Non-Violent
February 12 Taplejung / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Vice-chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha has said that his party is in favor of a multiple-identity-based federal system that empowers people at the local level. Speaking at a function in Taplejung, Vice-chairman Shrestha said that the UCPN-M is against a single-identity federal structure. "We can carve out federal provinces on multiple-identity basis such as Mechi-Limbuwan-Purbi Pradesh. It is impossible to have a constitution that calls for the creation of single-identity federal structure in Nepal which is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-cultural country," Shrestha said while elaborating the federal province model of his party. He claimed that the UCPN-M is ready to sit for talks if ruling parties come up with an agreeable solution to constitution drafting.

Non-Violent
February 12 Chispani / Khotang

NC leader Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that the constitution will be drafted at any cost despite the reluctance of the UCPN-M. He accused the UPCN-M of not wanting constitution as they failed to draft the constitution when they were at the helm of the government in the first CA and also have been obstructing the constitution drafting process in the second CA too. As the UCPN-M does not seem to have the intention of bringing the constitution, the constitution will be drafted through majority basis if the [Maoists] do not come for consensus, Deuba said. Speaking at a ceremony organised to unveil the statue of Harka Bahadur Rai at Chispani in Khotang, Deuba said the NC has been making efforts to bring the Maoists on board the main stream politics as they are diverging towards non-political line.

Non-Violent
February 13 Paris Dada / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda speaking on the occasion of 20th anniversary of Maoist People's War at UCPN-M party office in Paris Dada in Kathmandu, called his party cadres to move ahead adopting the path of revolt, revolution and struggle. He has stressed on the need to protect the Maoist agitation by learning from their past mistake and said that it was time to wake up in order to protect the achievements obtained so far. "We have roused after January 22," said Dahal, "we are ready to make any kind of sacrifices."Dahal said, "Even if the Prachanda and Baburam (Baburam Bhattarai) were perished, Maoist struggle will resurrect from the grave."

Non-Violent
February 13 Ilam / Ilam District

UCPN-M Vice Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha has said that the nation will head towards a severe confrontation if the constitution could not be drafted through CA. Talking to journalists Ilam in Ilam District, leader Shrestha pointed out that the nation would fall prey to a grave disaster if the parties inside the CA do not work in agreement. Shrestha remarked that the parties inside the CA should have basic unity as separatists and religious extremists, among other threats, have started emerging. Making it clear that the UCPN-M is not against dialogues and consensus, Shrestha said the ruling parties should assure them (opposition) of stopping the majority vote process.

Non-Violent
February 13 Sunsari District / Kathmandu

UCPN-M has formed a volunteer force in Sunsari District avowedly to retaliate against possible suppression of their protest activities. Organizing a press meet on the occasion of the 20th "people´s war" day, Maoist 'central committee' member Ram Kumari Chaudhari informed about the formation of the volunteers´ force and its week-long campaign.

Non-Violent
February 13 Basantapur / Sunsari District

The CPN-Maoist has launched the Mechi-Mahakali Campaign aimed at strengthening the party organisation and building what it said a ground for fresh agitation. Party Chairman Mohan Baidya formally announced the launching of the campaign from Basantapur in Sunsari District on the occasion of ´20th People´s War Day´. The campaign will go nationwide, according to the party. On the occasion, Baidya said the party agitation would continue until objectives of the people´s war were achieved. There was no alternative to revolutionary parties to unite to materialise the dream of people´s war. He urged the UCPN-M to leave the CA and come to the street if it desired to go for an agitation.

Non-Violent
February 14 Salleri / Solukhumbu District

At an interaction program in Salleri in Solukhumbu District, Treasurer of UCPN-M and lawmaker Haribol Gajurel warned that the 30-party opposition alliance will stage a ´decisive´ agitation after February 28 deserting the CA. He said that the announced agitation programs would not postpone until the ruling parties were flexible for consensus. He also accused the ruling NC and CPN-UML of disturbing the environment for consensus, considering that the Maoist party would take credit of constitution promulgation. He added the opposition would run a parallel CA after February 28 if the NC and CPN-UML moved ahead based on majoritarian process.

Non-Violent
February 15 Kathmandu

Addressing a programme at the party headquarters in Kathmandu, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said that the presence of supporters on the street would determine the party's future direction in national politics. Dahal said the ruling parties would start the voting process in the CA if there was a small number of people and cadres at the planned mass meetings of the alliance of Maoist, Madhesi and Janajati parties.

Non-Violent
February 15 Surkhet / Kathmandu

Speaking at a press conference organised by UCPN-M-aligned Revolutionary Journalists Association, Surkhet in Kathmandu, UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai ruled out the possibility of resuming talks with the ruling parties unless the ongoing process to draft constitution on majority basis is scrapped. Bhattarai said that the constitution must be issued from the CA with participation of the parties that signed the peace agreements.

Non-Violent
February 17

Rolpa District

UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai accused the ruling parties, NC and CPN-UML, of demonstrating their arrogance in the name of drafting new constitution.

Statement
February 19

Kathmandu

To protest against the ruling parties’ decision to initiate the voting process on disputed issues of constitution writing, the 30-party alliance led by UCPN-M is organising rallies across the country on February 21. The first phase of protest will continue until February 28 when the alliance will hold a mass meeting in Kathmandu. The second phase of the protest will conclude on March 29 before the alliance launches what they call “decisive movement” from March 30.

Non-Violent
February 20

Kapilvastu District

UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai accused the NC and CPN-UML of trying to revive the 1990 constitution.

Statement
February 21

Kathmandu

To protest against the ruling parties' decision to initiate the voting process on disputed issues of constitution writing, the 30-party alliance led by UCPN-M organized rallies across the country.

Non-Violent
February 22

Jajarkot District / Kathmandu

UCPN-M senior leader Baburam Bhattarai talking to journalists in Jajarkot District refuted the allegations levelled against him that he ruined the talks.

Non-Violent
February 23

Lalitpur District / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda while addressing a cadres' training organised in Lalitpur District said that the process for talks could not move ahead as PM Sushil Koirala has not expressed any commitment to stop the majority process even if he called the opposition alliance for talks twice. Dahal stressed that the NC and CPN-UML have to become active like the Prime Minister for talks.

Non-Violent
February 24

Kathmandu

In the run-up to a mass demonstration scheduled by the 30-party alliance led by the UCPN-M for February 28, lathi-wielding cadres of YCL, the youth wing of UCPN-M marched in Kathmandu in what they called a show of strength and a prelude to a ‘decisive movement’. Sporting red caps and carrying lathis, YCL cadres in thousands started their rally from Bhrikutmandap and passed through Shahid Gate, Ratna Park, Jamal, Kamaladi and Putalisadak before converging again at the point of origin.

Non-Violent
February 25

Kathmandu

Following the YCL, the youth wing of UCPN-M, demonstration in Kathmandu on February 24, the Ministry of Home Affairs warned the agitators against terrorizing the public. Home Ministry spokesperson Laxmi Prasad Dhakal said “Terrorizing people in the name of demonstration is strictly prohibited.” If Police find protestors wielding bamboo staves in any demonstration, such protestors would be immediately arrested, he said.

Non-Violent
February 26

Kathmandu

CPN-Maoist-Baidya chairman Mohan Baidya said that discussions were underway for a joint agitation with the 30-party alliance. Baidya said his party was supporting the agitation launched by the Alliance. He also urged the UCPN-M to come to street by denouncing the CA.

Non-Violent
February 27

Kathmandu

Chairman of the UCPN-M Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said that NC and CPN-UML are attempting to repeal the CPA and push the country towards a serious crisis. Dahal urged the ruling parties to clarify their position on the peace deal and other past agreements. He warned of launching a revolt if the ruling parties flout the past agreements which, he said, has laid the foundation of new constitution.

Non-Violent
February 27

Kathmandu

The UCPN-M-led 30-party opposition alliance during a press conference claimed that around 200,000 party leaders and supporters would be joining forces in their show of strength in Kathmandu on February 28. Party insiders said that UCPN-M alone have pledged to bring in more than 100,000 people, with other fringe parties assuring 15,000 each.

Non-Violent
February 28

Kathmandu

The UCPN-M led 30-party alliance begun rallies from different parts of Kathmandu. UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal led the rally at Kamalpokhari, while senior leader Dr. Baburam Bhattarai at Kalimati and Vice-Chairman Narayankaji Shrestha at Koteshwar. Similarly, top leaders of the Madhes-based parties have led the rallies at Babarmahal. The rallies also emanated from Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. The rallies would merge at Khulamanch before a programme, which would be addressed by the top leaders of the alliance.

Non-Violent
March 2

Kathmandu

Conflicting views in the UCPN-M about resuming formal talks with the ruling parties have placed party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda in a tight spot. Senior leader Baburam Bhattarai says the party should not sit for talks until the ruling coalition agrees to scrap the ongoing majority process in the CA and return the disputed issues of constitution writing to the Political Dialogue and Consensus Committee that he leads.

Non-Violent
March 3

Kathmandu

Ruling parties NC and CPN-UML during a meeting in Kathmandu decided to urge CA Chairman Subas Nembang to resume the stalled CA process. Both the parties also asked the UCPN-M-led alliance to sit for talks without further delay.

Non-Violent
March 3

Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said that it would be difficult to forge consensus on disputed issues in constitution making if the opposition alliance is forced to launch second phase of protests.

Non-Violent
March 5

Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda met PM Sushil Koirala and urged him to prepare ground for formal talks between the ruling and the opposition parties.

Non-Violent
March 6

Kathmandu

UCPN-M leader Agni Prasad Sapkota speaking during a programme in Kathmandu said that his party is ready to seek public opinion on the disputed five Districts Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Kailali and Kanchanpur regarding their annexation to which federal state in the new constitution.

Non-Violent
March 8

Kathmandu

PM Sushil Koirala has said that an environment conducive for drafting the constitution through consensus is being created. PM Koirala urged the UCPN-M led opposition alliance to take this opportunity and lend support for drafting the new constitution. PM Koirala, who held discussions with UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, has been continuing parleys with other leaders as well.

Non-Violent
March 9

Kathmandu

The UCPN-M objected to a recent verdict of the SC that prohibits the Commissions of Inquiry on TRC, and Enforced Disappearances from looking into cases sub judice in court. UCPN-M said that all war-era cases should be handed over to the newly formed commissions.

Non-Violent
March 10

Kathmandu

The opposition alliance led by UCPN-M, deferred the announcement of its second phase of protest programmes which was scheduled to declare another round of stir on March 10. They have decided to wait till March 14 for the ruling parties to initiate dialogue.

Non-Violent
March 10

Sanepa / Kathmandu

Describing the current lapse of protests as “temporary ceasefire”, UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai has said consensus among the political parties on the disputed issues of the new constitution would be hard to build in the near future. Bhattarai said both Nepali Congress and CPN-UML had not been taking concrete measures to make cross-party talks meaningful. In a meeting with select journalists at his residence in Sanepa, Bhattarai charged that the ruling parties were not responding to their repeated calls for dialogue and consensus.

Non-Violent
March 10

Kathmandu

The CPN-Maoist’s plan to revive the 33-party alliance for another round of protest has suffered a setback after several parties withdrew their support in favour of the UCPN-M led opposition bloc. Several fringe parties previously associated with the alliance, spearheaded by the Mohan Baidya -led CPN-Maoist, have joined the bloc under the leadership of UCPN-M, while many other parties have shown reluctance to launch another round of protest, citing obscure position of CPN-Maoist regarding the CA.

Non-Violent
March 12

Kathmandu

NC and CPN-UML during a meeting of the ruling parties held at the Prime Minister Sushil Koirala's official residence in Kathmandu decided to hold 'decisive talks' with the 30-party alliance led by UCPN-M by March 13. They concluded that they would not wait the opposition alliance for a long period in the name of consensus. The parties also decided to resume talks regarding issues of the constitution from the point the parleys between the ruling and the opposition parties derailed on January 19.

Non-Violent
March 12

Kathmandu

A meeting of senior leaders of NC and UCPN-M agreed to seek accord on key contentious issues of the new constitution before March 15.

Non-Violent
March 15

Kathmandu

The alliance of 30 opposition parties led by UCPN-M unveiled its second phase of protests to press the ruling parties to draft the new constitution through consensus. A meeting of the alliance convened, finalised programmes for its second phase of protests starting from March 19 to April 9. The programmes include mass assembly, demonstration, sit-in and general strike. UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda will announce the decision about their protests at a press meet.

Non-Violent
March 15

Kathmandu

Prime Minister Sushil Koirala’s request, to UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal not to announce protest programmes went futile after the opposition parties declared their second phase of agitation.

Non-Violent
March 15

Lazimpat  / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M and CPN-Maoist have taken initiatives for party unification two years and nine months after they split. In a bid to give momentum to the unification of the two parties, CPN-Maoist Chairman Mohan Baidya visited UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal at the latter's residence in Lazimpat. The meeting decided to take ahead the unification process in an organised manner, UCPN-M General Secretary Krishna Bahadur Mahra said.

Non-Violent
March 17 Koteshwar / Kathmandu

Stating that ruling parties' unilateral push for majority-based constitution making process has left them with no choice, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda instructed lawmakers from his party to be prepared for resigning from the CA en masse at anytime. Addressing an informal meeting of party central committee at party office at Koteshwar, Dahal said finding a meeting point with the ruling sides was not possible while they insist on majority-based process for new constitution.

Non-Violent
March 17 Kathmandu

Concluding that the UCPN-M led opposition alliance is in a dilemma over enforcing the second round of protests, the ruling NC decided to take talks and the voting process on disputed issues in the CA side by side. A meeting of top NC leaders held in the presence of Prime Minister Sushil Koirala decided to keep the door for negotiations open and press the CA chairman to push the Assembly proceedings forward for deciding the contentious issues of statute drafting.

Non-Violent
March 19 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M started approaching senior leaders of the ruling parties involved in the peace process, asking them to facilitate consensus on the disputed issues of the constitution writing process. The opposition has often said that problems have exacerbated as the current leadership of the NC and the CPN-UML fails to grasp the spirit of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, met senior CPN-UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal, asking him to increase his role in the drafting of the new constitution.

Non-Violent
March 20 Morang District / Kathmandu

Talking to the media persons at Biratnagar Airport, Morang District, UCPN-M vice-chair Narayan Kaji Shrestha said that the constitution drafting process would not be complete without consensus. Shrestha said the constitution drafting process would be incomplete if the major partner of the peace process and different movements was kept in isolation.

Non-Violent
March 22 Buddhanagar / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M formed a working alliance with five of its splinter parties to oppose the SC verdict that curtails the jurisdiction of the newly formed TRC and the CIED to look into cases sub judice in court. A joint meeting held at the CPN-Maoist office in Buddhanagar, announced the alliance concluding that the ruling parties had breached the CPA and the Interim Constitution by "not following the statute and the CPA in their true spirit".

Non-Violent
March 23 Sheetal Niwas / Kathmandu

President Ram Baran Yadav and UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal held meeting at the President's official residence in Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu in which President Yadav said that the new constitution should be promulgated through consensus on time. He also stressed on the need of consensus among political parties for the same.

Non-Violent
March 24 Khalanga / Kathmandu

CPN-Masal General Secretary Mohan Bikram Singh during a press meet organised by Pyuthan chapter of Pragatishil Patrakar Sangh at Khalanga, said that the UCPN-M should accept the CA process as the political situation is deteriorating further. He alleged the UCPN-M of rejecting the majority voting process in order to draft a constitution favourable to them.

Non-Violent
March 24 Kathmandu

UCPN-M proposed the continuation of efforts to seek consensus on the disputed issues, arguing that following the majority process of constitution writing or enforcing more street protests would both be counterproductive. In separate meetings with the NC and CPN-UML, Maoist leader Baburam Bhattarai asked the ruling parties to persuade their leadership about the need for consensus.

Non-Violent
March 25 Simpane / Pokhara / Kaski District

Police arrested five students of the ANNISU-R, student wing of UCPN-M, identified as Kshitiz Sapkota, Laxmi Prasad Subedi, Netra Chapagain, Dinesh Poudel and Bishal Gurung for pelting stones at Finance Minister Ram Sharan Mahat's vehicle at Simpane in Pokhara in Kaski District.

Violent
March 27 Buddhanagar / Kathmandu

In a press statement, Home Minister Bam Dev Gautam urged the UCPN-M led alliance of 30 opposition parties to call off their protest programme and come to the negotiating table for talks. The Home Minister said "In my capacity as the Home Minister, I request the opposition alliance, including the UCPN-M, to give up their agitation programmes, if not, cancel, at least, the stick rally, torch rally, obstruction of Government offices and three-day general strike.

Statement
March 27 Kaski District / Kathmandu

Senior leader of the UCPN-M former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai speaking at an interaction in Kaski District proposed a middle way solution for ending the current political deadlock centered on the majority-based constitution-writing process. Stating that a middle way can be found between the majority-process and the street protest, Bhattarai said "We are for a middle way solution for ending the standoff. Although we are very close to agreement on the contentious issues of the constitution, a few things remain to be resolved. We don't want people to suffer the impact of strikes, but the ruling parties do not understand any other language."

Non-Violent
March 29 Kathmandu

42 people were injured when sporadic clashes erupted between the agitating activists of 30-party alliance-led by UCPN-M and Police in different parts of the country. In Kavre District, 12 protestors and five Policemen were injured in clashes between Police and demonstrators. In Chitwan District, seven people including two Policemen were injured after Police tried to intervene opposition alliance agitation at Bharatpur. In Rupandehi District nine protestors were injured in a clash with the Police at Bhairahwa. In Rautahat District, six protestors and two Policemen were injured in a clash that occurred at Gaur. In Sindhuli District, DSP Shyam Kumar Mahato, who is also the DPO chief, was injured in a clash with agitating party activists.

Violent
March 30 Kathmandu

41 people were injured in clashes between Police and demonstrators during the lathi rally organised by the 30-party alliance-led by UCPN-M across the country. In Pokhara District, 18 persons including three Policemen were injured when a clash erupted between Police and demonstrators at New Road. In Sindhuli District, seven protestors and one Policeman were injured when cadres of the alliance clashed with Police at Sindhulimadhi. In Chitwan District, six demonstrators were injured in a clash ensued when Police intervened against agitators who were protesting with lathis at Pulchowk. In Kabhrepalanchok District, four UCPN-M cadres and a minor were injured in a clash at Chardobato. In Rautahat District, three protestors and one Policeman were injured in a clash in Gaur.

Violent
March 30 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M -led alliance of 30 opposition parties called off its agitation programmes other than the three-day general strike called for April (7-9). But the opposition front has decided to boycott the CA meeting summoned for April 6 unless the ruling parties commit to consensus-based constitution. A meeting of the opposition alliance decided to withdraw its agitation programmes such as picketing government offices, blockade of entry points and obstruction of tax collection and focus on general strike of April 7-9.

Non-Violent
March 31 Myagdi District / Kathmandu

NC Vice President Ram Chandra Poudel speaking at a training programme of NC leaders and cadres in Myagdi District said that the demonstration of sticks on the streets by the cadres of UCPN-M-led 30-party opposition alliance will not write the Constitution.

Non-Violent
April 1 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda told Central Committee members and CA members at an emergency meeting in Kathmandu that a minor blow wouldn't have any effect on NC and CPN-UML and therefore they needed to go for a stronger movement. During the briefing, he said the change in the previous plan was made with a view to strengthen the internal party structure so as to make necessary preparations for the three-day nationwide strike from April 7-9 and to keep some space for official talks if the ruling parties wished.

Non-Violent
April 1 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M refuted the accusation that party politburo member Prabhu Shah moblised a racket for the murder of party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda. In a press statement, UCPN-M spokesperson Dinanath Sharma refuted the accusation and said an investigation would be launched against the leaders including lawmaker Ashok Jaiswal who made the accusation.

Non-Violent
April 1 Kathmandu

Taking strong exception to the recent SC verdict (February 26) on transitional justice mechanisms, UCPN-M led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Mohan Baidya-led CPN-Maoist, Netra Bikram Chand-led CPN-M, Matrika Yadav-led CPN-Maoist, Mani Thapa-led RCP and Pari Thapa-led CPN (Unified) have decided to stage joint protest campaign seeking its review. The six Maoist parties have also decided to submit a memorandum to the prime minister on April 3 and stage joint rally across the country on April 6 against the SC verdict.

Non-Violent
April 2 Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

UCPN-M sought revision of the nine-point joint proposal forwarded by NC and CPN-UML in line with the January19 understanding between parties as a way out of the current political stalemate. Talking to journalists at the parliamentary party office in Singha Durbar, Kathmandu, and UCPN-M Chief Whip Giri Raj Mani Pokhrel said consensus has become illusive as ruling parties continue to stick to their nine-point proposal. The ruling NC and CPN-UML had forwarded a nine-point joint proposal to the CPDCC of the CA on November 3 as their first move toward bringing majority-based constitution.

Non-Violent
April 3 Damak / Jhapa District

General Secretary of the NC Krishna Prasad Sitaula speaking at a press meeting in Damak in Jhapa District, said that the political parties would work together to promulgate the new democratic constitution through the second CA. Hinting towards the opposition parties' protest, Sitaula said the street protest announced by the 30-party alliance led by the UCPN-M has no meaning at all for the constitution could not be written at the force of street protests rather it should be written by forging consensus. Sitaula urged the UCPN-M not to disrespect the public mandate and be serious to write constitution as desired by the public.

Non-Violent
April 3 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Six Maoist parties including the UCPN-M, submitting a joint memorandum to PM Sushil Koirala at his residence in Baluwatar, Kathmandu, said that the recent SC verdict on transitional justice was against the spirit of peace accord. The leaders of the six Maoist parties-who were a major party to the conflict-demanded immediate nullification of the SC's verdict, release of those arrested on charges of war-era cases, and enforcement of legal provision for reconciliation in war-era political cases. The SC ruling has barred the commissions--TRC and CED - from initiating reconciliation on their own without victims' consent.

Non-Violent
April 5 Kathmandu

In a meeting between two leaders, PM Sushil Koirala urged UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda to agree on initiating the constitution drafting process by incorporating issues resolved so far and continue discussions on unresolved issues such as the model of federalism. PM Koirala tried to convince Dahal, on starting the CA proceedings and eventually voting over disputed issues of the new constitution. PM Koirala suggested the Maoist-led opposition front to shun protest programmes.

Non-Violent
April 5 Morang / Biratnagar / Kathmandu

NC General Secretary Krishna Prasad Sitaula claimed that Sushil Koirala-led government would continue until the promulgation of the new constitution. At a news conference organised by Nepal Press Union, Morang, at Biratnagar, Kathmandu, Sitaula expressed the view that different political parties including the UCPN-M have been misinterpreting the term 'consensus'. He further said that it was necessary to hold discussion among the major political parties after focusing on the issue of constitution writing, saying the new constitution would not be promulgated as per the interest of a single party.

Non-Violent
April 5 Baglung District

UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai accused the ruling parties, NC and CPN-UML, of holding the CA hostage, and added there is no point in attending the CA that has been held hostage. Speaking at a press meet organised in Baglung District by Baglung chapter of revolutionary journalists, Bhattarai said his party would not participate in the CA unless consensus is forged on the disputed issues of constitution drafting. He made it clear that his party would not, at any cost, agree on the agenda of those intending to promulgate the new constitution by putting the federalism on back burner.

Non-Violent
April 5 - 6 Kathmandu

The government has urged the UCPN-M led opposition bloc to agree on preparing the draft of the new constitution by incorporating the issues resolved so far and continue discussions on federalism, instead of staging protests. In his recent meetings with opposition leaders, PM Sushil Koirala urged the parties to withdraw their scheduled protest programme as it could spoil the environment for consensus on the disputed agendas. PM Koirala held meetings with UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda and MJF-L Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar on April 5 and April 6, respectively. During the meetings, Koirala assured them of flexibility on the names and borders of federal provinces if they roll back their scheduled protests.

Non-Violent
April 6 Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M led 30-opposition parties decided to go ahead with its three-day nationwide general shutdown, beginning on April 7. A meeting of the alliance convened at Singha Durbar, Kathmandu decided to make their general strike a success despite calls from several quarters to cancel their agitation programmes.

Non-Violent
April 6 Shanti Batika / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M, along with its five splinters, took out a rally demanding nullification of a recent verdict of the SC that curbs the jurisdiction of the transitional justice mechanism. Addressing a gathering at Shanti Batika in Kathmandu, Maoist leaders warned of abandoning the peace process and reviving the disbanded PLA.

Non-Violent
April 7 Kathmandu

As many as twenty persons, including eight SF personnel, sustained injuries in clashes erupted during the first day of the three-day (April 7 - 9) Banda called by UCPN-M led alliance of 30 political parties in various parts of Kathmandu Valley. Banda enforcers clashed with Police in Kavre during a torch rally organised by the alliance. Eight Police personnel, including an inspector, and 12 banda enforcers were injured. In Bhairahawa, banda supporters set ablaze a motorcycle with Indian registration in the morning. Police said the cadres fled the scene after torching the two-wheeler (UP 56 J-2707) at Barmaili Tole.

Four protesters in Bhojpur were seriously hurt and were referred to Kathmandu for treatment. At least 19 vehicles were vandalised while banda enforcers set ablaze four vehicles, according to Police. Police held 55 banda enforcers from across the country on the first day of the banda. Police also detained 16 Maoist leaders including party's Kathmandu committee Chairman Himal Sharma. Kathmandu District Secretary Renu Dahal, ANNISU-R, student wing of UCPN-M, leader Surendra Basnet, among others, were detained at the Metropolitan Police Circle, Tinkune. They were released in the evening.

Cadres of the opposition alliance gathered at major thoroughfares in Biratnagar, Janakpur, Saptari, Bhojpur and Panchthar, among other Districts, shutting down marketplaces and halting vehicular movement.

In Saptari, party cadres and banda supporters vandalised a motorcycle belonging to the District Public Health Office while stones were pelted at the Land Revenue Office.

In Jhapa, the Mechi Municipality office was vandalised, causing a loss of property worth NPR 100,000.

Effects of the shutdown were felt in Udaypur, Gulmi, Myagdi and Kaski Districts as markets were closed and vehicles garaged.

In Pokhara, five vehicles were vandalised for defying the call. Police said three buses and two trucks faced the wrath of party cadres at Sainikbasti and Prithivi Chowk. Police made seven arrests for vandalism.

The strike had no effect in Mustang District where vehicles ran as usual. The market also remained open. The alliance had called off the strike in Taplejung District in view of the recent fire that destroyed 35 houses and displaced 90 families.

Violent
April 7 Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M led alliance of 30 political parties, decided to call off its general strike planned for April 8 and April 9. A meeting of the alliance convened at Singha Durbar, Kathmandu, shortly after announcing the end of strike at 5 pm on the first day of the three-day general strike made the decision to this effect.

Non-Violent
April 8 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

The UCPN-M party asked PM Sushil Koirala to take an initiative to end the present political impasse between ruling and opposition parties. UCPN-M General Secretary Krishna Bahadur Mahara who called on the PM Koirala, at the latter's residence at Baluwatar, Kathmandu, said that he had conveyed his party's decision in the meeting.

Non-Violent
April 9 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda expressed optimism over reaching consensus with the ruling parties on key contentious issues of new constitution. The main opposition party leader maintained that consensus is possible if the ruling parties respect the past agreements, especially the CPA.

Non-Violent
April 9 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

In a bid to end the current deadlock situation seen at the CA, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and CA Chairman Subas Nembang held a discussion at latter's quarter at Baluwatar. Chairman Nembang had drawn the Dahal's attention to hold a meaningful dialogue with the ruling parties to forge consensus prior to the CA meet.

Non-Violent
April 12 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said the disputed issues of constitution writing--federalism, forms of government, judiciary and electoral system-- should be settled simultaneously. The Maoist party will not accept piecemeal solution, Dahal told CA Chairman Subas Nembang in a meeting in Kathmandu.

Non-Violent
April 15 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M said that it is ready to make a compromise on the issues of federalism if the ruling NC and CPN-UML agree to make more concessions on the electoral system. The main opposition party claims that it wants to conclude the statute drafting process as soon as possible if the ruling parties are ready for the inclusive and proportional representation of marginalised communities through a new electoral system.

Giving preference to negotiations over street protests, the Maoist leaders said they were not in a mood to announce the third phase of protest despite pressure on UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda from allies of the 30-party front to unveil the street protest.

Non-Violent
April 16 Kathmandu

SP Chairman Rajendra Mahato accused UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal aka Prachanda of betrayal and said, the Madhesi and the Janajati parties are forming a separate alliance. Speaking at 25th anniversary of his party, Mahato said there is a need of separate alliance as Dahal had failed to lead the protests to establish their demands effectively. Further, he said that the new alliance consist TMDP, MJFN and SP.

Non-Violent
April 18 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M said that it will raise objection to the process of constitution drafting through majority if the CA moves ahead by disregarding the opposition. The Maoist party made such reaction in the wake of the decision made by the ruling parties- NC and CPN-UML-to take the CA process ahead so as to promulgate the new constitution by mid July, if the consensus cannot be forged with the opposition parties.

Non-Violent
April 20 Kathmandu

Three major political parties said they were closer to reaching an agreement over the disputes of the new Constitution and expect to resolve disputes within three days. With the UCPN-M agreeing to explore a previous understanding, the parties have agreed to prepare a draft of the new statute on the contentious issues they have already forged an understanding - model of governance, electoral system and judiciary. Meanwhile, they would try to reach consensus on the most entangled issue of all, federalism.

Non-Violent
April 23 Kathmandu

The three major parties- NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M-had agreed on April 20 to initiate drafting process on already agreed upon issues and continue discussions on the disputed issues. Though parties are closer to consensus on judiciary, electoral system and form of government, they are yet to prepare a framework of agreement. According to cross-party leaders, they plan to prepare a draft if there is a final agreement on these issues and get back to discussions on federalism after a while.

Non-Violent
April 24 Kathmandu

In an indication of mending rift in the alliance, leaders of the UCPN-M-led 30-party opposition bloc have reached an understanding to form a task force to deal with the ruling parties on constitution-writing. The team under Maoist leader Krishna Bahadur Mahara will take its shape when the meeting of the alliance scheduled for April 28 inducts members from the Madhesi and Janajati parties.

Non-Violent
April 24 Lazimpat / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda refuted the rumors that he forged a separate deal with the CPN-UML and NC. Talking to journalists at his Lazimpat-based residence in Kathmandu, leader Dahal said no progress has been made towards agreement except the 'abstract commitment' for consensus during the bilateral meeting held before PM Koirala left for Indonesia.

Non-Violent
April 24 Kathmandu

Leaders from the ruling NC and CPN-UML responded positively to UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal's proposal to prepare a draft of the new constitution by including both the federal models -- the one proposed by ruling coalition and the other floated by the UCPN-M led opposition camp.

Non-Violent
April 24 Lazimpat / Kathmandu

Talking to a few journalists at his residence at Lazimpat in Kathmandu, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal said that his party is positive towards forging consensus on federalism, putting both the 7-province model of the ruling parties and the Maoist-proposed 10 province model in the draft new constitution and then going for public feedback. Dahal also said the constitution should not be promulgated without finalizing the major disputes over state-structuring.

Non-Violent
June 8 Kathmandu

Four major parties, NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, signed a 16-point agreement on the key contentious issues including federalism, paving the way for promulgating a new Constitution. The deal signed by Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, CPN-UML Chairman KP Oli, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and MJF-L Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar states that the country shall be federated into eight provinces on the basis of economic viability and identity. Two key components of federal states-names and delineation-remain unsettled, though. According to the deal, the government will form a commission with a six-month mandate to finalize the demarcation of federal units.

Non-Violent
June 8 Kathmandu

28 constituent parties of the 30-party opposition alliance, except the UCPN-M and MJF-L, at the 30-party meeting strongly objected to the political agreement between the big four political parties, arguing the agreement does not resolve the issue of federalism.

Non-Violent
June 8 Kathmandu

Voicing dissent over the agreement reached by major parties, NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, CPN-Maoist Chairman Mohan Baidya remarked that the 16-point pact signed by the four big political parties has reinstated regression. "The agreement between the four parties is regressive. Consensus on the contentious issues of constitution should be sought by holding all-party meeting," said Baidya. He said the unification process with UCPN-M have been put on hold as the latter is a signatory of the regressive agreement.

Non-Violent
June 9 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M-led 30-party opposition alliance has split after the four major parties on June 8 reached a 16-point agreement on major contentious issues of the new Constitution. Opposing the agreement, some of the constituent parties in the alliance including MPRF-N, TMDP, FSPN and SP held parallel meeting of the alliance. The dissident faction has claimed that as many as 13 constituent parties in the alliance are supporting them. On the other hand, UCPN-M, MPRF-D and various other parties in the alliance have decided to join the CA.

Non-Violent
June 16

Kavre District

CPN-Maoist Chairman Mohan Baidya claimed that the 16-point agreement among NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L will not yield a new constitution. The only way to ensure the promulgation of the constitution is an all-party political conference, Baidya told reporters in Kavre District. Baidya also said that the UCPN-M, which had led the alliance of which CPN-Maoist was a member, betrayed its allies by becoming a signatory to the 16-point deal.

Non-Violent
June 17

Lazimpat / Kathmandu

Chairman of the UCPN-M Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said his party was committed to federalism with identity but made some compromises on certain issues in order to forge consensus. Receiving a memorandum submitted by the NEFIN at his residence in Lazimpat in Kathmandu, Chairman Dahal said his party had to be flexible on some issues for consensus but the party had not given up the issues it had been raising in the past and urged the delegation to take the deal positively.

Non-Violent
June 18

Gorkha District

UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai remarked that a national government would be formed immediately after the promulgation of new constitution. Talking to journalists in Gorkha at his home-District Gorkha, Bhattarai said the new constitution would be announced within the current Nepali month of Ashad (mid July).

Non-Violent
June 19

Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Taking strong exception to the apex court's interim order, four major political forces, NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L have termed the move as an act of intervention in the jurisdiction of the sovereign CA elected to promulgate the new constitution. The four parties said that the order would not affect the set statute-drafting process. An emergency meeting of the ruling and opposition parties held at Prime Minister Sushil Koirala's official residence in Baluwatar immediately after the court's ruling said the order was against the spirit of the Interim Constitution-2007 and the principles of the separation of powers.

Non-Violent
June 21

Kathmandu

The UCPN-M said that the interim order issued by SC would not affect the task of constitution writing. A meeting of office bearers of the UCPN-M decided to continue the constitution writing task, while at the same time cooperate with the other parties in the matter, informed party Vice Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha.

Non-Violent
June 21

Kathmandu

The UCPN-M charged that the ruling parties are trying to move ahead against the spirit of the 16-point deal signed on June 8, on the contentious issues of the new constitution. In a meeting of UCPN-M, the party's top leaders concluded that the NC and CPN-UML had taken a tough stance on some minor issues of the new constitution. The main opposition decided to hold "serious negotiations" with the coalition partners on the matter.

Non-Violent
June 28 Kathmandu

The CDC endorsed the preliminary draft of the new constitution, which will be tabled in the CA on June 29 for deliberation among the CA members. Though the CPN-UML and the UCPN-M and some fringe parties voiced some reservations over some of the provisions, they fully backed the passage of the preliminary draft, in a step towards promulgation of the new constitution.

Non-Violent
June 28 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Four major political parties have agreed to allocate 60 percent seats under the FPTP electoral system and 40 percent seats under proportional electoral system in the provincial assembly election. A meeting of the four major political parties -- NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and UDMF -- held at Baluwatar, Kathmandu, decided to keep the same ratio in the electoral system as agreed earlier for the federal assembly. The four parties have agreed to ensure 33 percent women in both provincial and federal assemblies.

Non-Violent
June 29 Kathmandu

Major opposition UCPN-M warned of not signing the first draft of the constitution citing that the draft contained provisions against the spirit of 16-point agreement. UCPN-M expressed its dissatisfaction saying that the CDC Chairman Krishna Prasad Sitaula added some words which is against the 16-point understanding reached among the political parties on June 8.

Non-Violent
June 29 Kathmandu

The CDC failed to table the preliminary draft of the constitution in the CA as UCPN-M objected to some of its provisions. The CA meeting that convened after midnight on June 29, was postponed for June 30, after passing a condolence message on the demise of former lawmaker Padma Sundar Lawoti.

Non-Violent
July 2 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M decided to urge the government to bring budget as per the spirit of 16-point pact since the agreement has created environment of consensus in the country. A Parliamentary Party meeting of the UCPN-M convened at CA building in Kathmandu made the decision to this effect.

Non-Violent
July 6 Kathmandu

When four Madhes-based parties are boycotting discussions in the CA, the UCPN-M said that the delineation of federal units should be decided before constitution promulgation. Citing the changed circumstances, the party argues that it is better to settle the demarcation as the constitution draft undergoes modifications over the next few weeks. The UCPN-M believes that state demarcation could be decided within a month if the two ruling parties (NC and CPN-UML) take it seriously. Maoist Vice-chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha said it was improper to decide the numbers before laying out other details. There are growing voices in the NC and the CPN-UML as well that delineation should be decided before the new charter gets its final shape.

Non-Violent
July 8 Gangapipara / Rautahat District

CPN-UML Senior leader Madhav Kumar Nepal claimed that he tried hard to make UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda agree to take ahead the constitution drafting process. Speaking at a programme to lay the foundation stone for the construction of a community building at Gangapipara in Rautahat District, Nepal said the people would not forgive if the constitution could not be drafted this time around. He claimed that the new constitution would be in favour of the people of mountain, hill, and Tarai. He said the new constitution should not encourage religious conversion and end the Hindu identity and that the constitution should not hurt the sentiment any caste or religion.

Non-Violent
July 10 Sheetal Niwas / Kathmandu

President Ram Baran Yadav advised four major political parties to promulgate the new Constitution only after the delineation of provinces, a key demand of the leaders from Madhesi and Janajati constituencies, in accordance with the Supreme Court's stay order. Inviting Prime Minister and NC President Sushil Koirala, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and MJF-L Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar at Sheetal Niwas, the official residence of the President in Kathmandu, President Yadav expressed his dissatisfaction at the major parties' decision to promulgate the new charter without resolving the federalism row, and by suspending some constitutional provisions to speed up the process.

Non-Violent
July 12 Kathmandu

Backtracking on its earlier stance, top leadership of the UCPN-M, decided to mount pressure for delineation of provinces prior to promulgation of the new constitution. Addressing a function organized by ANNISU-R, the student wing of the party in Kathmandu, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal directed student leaders to start campaign to mount pressure on the CA and political parties to delineate provinces before promulgation of the new Constitution.

Non-Violent
July 12 Kathmandu

Dispute between UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and senior leader Baburam Bhattarai has escalated further over several sticking points, most notably the party's leadership. The duo publicly accused each other of weakening the party, fostering factionalism. Indicating parallel activities inside the party, Dahal said that actions of his deputies Bhattarai and Narayan Kaji Shrestha often differ from their words. Bhattarai, who spoke ahead of Dahal, floated the idea of forming of a new political force, consequently irking Dahal.

Non-Violent
July 13 Jhapa District

Top-notch leaders of major parties, who arrived in Jhapa District, to lay foundation stone of Girija Prasad Koirala memorial building, said that promulgation of the much-awaited constitution is inevitable, and the statue will come into effect within mid-August. Addressing the function, Prime Minister and NC President Sushil Koirala stated that the change was possible owing to sacrifice and struggle, adding the nation is heading to institutionalize it. Saying that people were awaken by the change, PM Koirala expressed his belief that the consciousness in them will help to preserve democracy in coming days. Also speaking UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said that the constitution writing has entered final phase. Saying that lawmakers have reached people to collect feedbacks on the draft of the new constitution, Dahal claimed that the voices of dissenting parties will also be incorporated in the constitution. "There is still room for amendment," Dahal said, "Public feedbacks are being collected for that."

Non-Violent
July 17 Kathmandu

Concerned with anti-accord statements from the signatories themselves, the CPN-UML is preparing to raise the issue in a cross-party meeting. Against a clause in the 16-point agreement that says the borders of the eight provinces would be marked on the basis of the recommendations of a commission to be formed after constitution promulgation, some leaders of the coalition partner NC and the main opposition UCPN-M have stood for deciding the delineation now. The CPN-UML has concluded that such attempts would delay the new constitution. On June 8, major political parties-NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L - signed the deal agreeing to let the Federal Commission decide on the demarcation of provinces.

Non-Violent
July 20 Mirchaiya / Siraha District

Cadres of Madhesi Morcha, Mohan Baidya-led CPN-Maoist-Baidya and Matrika Yadav-led CPN-Maoist-Matrika pelted stones at UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda during a programme organised to collect the public opinion on draft constitution at Mohan Higher Secondary School in Mirchaiya of Siraha District. Scores of people were injured in a clash between police and cadres that followed after the incident. Mirchaiya Police said the number of people injured is yet to be ascertained. The programme venue remained tense after cadres tore the copies of draft and started hurling stones. Police fired 15 rounds of tear gas shells to contain the situation.

Violent
July 24 Kathmandu

Leaders from four major political forces at a meeting, decided to complete the task of Constitution making within the next three weeks and promulgate it by August 15. Top leaders from NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MPRF-D, decided to meet CA Chairman Subas Nembang on July 25, and inform him about their latest plan. NC Joint General Secretary Purna Bahadur Khadka said the meeting with CA chairman would set the timeline and chalk out a plan to expedite the Constitution making process from July 25. "The main emphasis of the meeting's decision is on carrying out the task on a war-footing and to complete it by August 15," Khadka said.

Non-Violent
July 24 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M submitted a memorandum to CA Chairman Subas Nembang demanding directly elected executive presidential system in the new Constitution. Party vice-chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha-led team of party leaders also sought necessary amendments to some provisions in the draft Constitution in line with past accords and the 16-point agreement. Party leaders also accused the CDC of CA of not abiding by the directive of the CA plenary and the 16-point agreement. Though the party agreed to parliamentary system in the draft statute, its leaders, including Baburam Bhattarai and Shrestha have stood for directly elected executive presidential system.

Non-Violent
July 24 Kathmandu

UCPN-M submitted a 13-page memorandum to CA Chairman Nembang suggesting the Constitution-writing body to fix 'tentative boundaries' of the eight Pradeshes in the new Constitution itself. The party, however, said the detailed works of boundary demarcation should be finalised after promulgation of the Constitution.

Non-Violent
July 26 Kathmandu

Four major parties - NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L - are holding consultations on how the people's feedback could be incorporated in the new constitution. They have agreed to bring out the new constitution on August 16. The CA has started preparing the calendar to promulgate the constitution on the date.

Non-Violent
July 26 Kathmandu

Disgruntled Madhes-based parties have been pressing for demarcation of federal states before statute promulgation. The UCPN-M demanded revision to the preliminary draft of the new constitution, claiming that the CDC made a number of mistakes while putting the issues together. In a letter submitted to the CA chairman, the main opposition party said the committee overstepped its jurisdictions and violated the directives issued by the CA. Handing over by party's Constitution Drafting Department head Narayan Kaji Shrestha says that the draft does not address the issue of inclusion and proportional representation of the oppressed and marginalised communities. "The provisions are objectionable and need correction," Shrestha said.

Non-Violent
July 27 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

In a meeting held at PM Sushil Koirala's residence in Baluwatar, four political parties - the NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, said they were likely to agree to demarcate the boundaries of federal units before promulgating the new Constitution and write religious freedom instead of secularism in the new Constitution.

Non-Violent
July 27 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said, that the term 'secularism' is not an appropriate one and it would be replaced by a suitable term in the new Constitution.

Non-Violent
July 28 Kathmandu

Four major political parties -- the NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, -- are scheduled to hold talks with dissenting Madhes-based parties on July 29. UCPN-M Vice Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha said they plan to hold talks with the Madhes-based parties in two different groups.

Non-Violent
July 30 Kathmandu

The CPDCC of the CA formed a special committee comprising leaders of four major political parties to integrate people's feedback on the preliminary draft of the new Constitution in a systematic manner. The special committee comprises PM Sushil Koirala, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda and Chairman of the MJF-L Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar. Committee chairman Baburam Bhattarai will coordinate the works and functioning of the special committee. The CA has instructed the committee to present its report within four days after incorporating people's feedback.

Non-Violent
August 2 Kathmandu

Serious differences emerged among the four major parties, the NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, on whether to delineate the federal provinces before the promulgation of new constitution. The senior ruling coalition NC has proposed delineating the federal provinces ahead of the Constitution promulgation as suggested by the public during the feedback collection campaign on the preliminary draft of the Constitution. The proposition goes against the 16-point agreement signed by the four parties which states that the task of demarcating the federal boundaries would be mandated to a commission after the new Constitution has been adopted. While the Maoists and MJF-L are also in favour of finalising the federal boundaries before Constitution promulgation, the CPN-UML is the only party which has rejected the idea. CPN-UML leaders have said that if the parties get into the task of delineating federal states now, it will further delay the already-delayed Constitution writing process. The four parties have set the target of issuing the new constitution by mid-August.

Non-Violent
August 3 Kathmandu

The UCPN-M boycotted the Legislature- Parliament meeting accusing the government of endorsing a discriminatory budget. The parliament meeting has been deferred following the Maoist's protest. Earlier on August 2, lawmakers from the ruling parties had objected to the budget for fiscal year 2015-16.

Non-Violent
August 5 Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

The leaders from NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MPRF-D decided to federate the country into six provinces. The leaders while emerging from a meeting held at Singha Durbar claimed to have resolved all remaining disputes and said the final decision would be made by August 6. The leaders this time have not only fixed the number but also drawn the boundaries of the proposed provinces, although disputes remain over three Districts. They have also resolved the dispute over five Districts -- Jhapa, Morang and Sunsari in the east and Kailali and Kanchanpur in the west. However, they are yet to agree on Kailali District. UCPN-M and Madhes-based parties have been lobbying for including Kailali district in Madhes province while NC and CPN-UML have strongly opposed the idea of separating it from other far-western hill Districts.

Non-Violent
August 6 Kathmandu

The demarcation dispute surrounds Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Saptari, Kanchanpur and Kailali Districts. Senior leader of NC Sher Bahadur Deuba and CPN-UML leader Bhim Rawal are adamant that the nine Districts of the Far West should remain undivided and Kailali should not be split. Deuba and Rawal maintain that federalism would be ineffective in case Kailali is split. Factions within the NC, the CPN-UML and the UCPN-M are, however, for reaching a deal even by splitting the Districts. Disputes over secularism, forms of government and provisions regarding citizenship, among others, are yet to be resolved. CDC Chairman Krishna Prasad Sitaula said a week is required to prepare the final constitution draft after the CPDCC completes its work.

Non-Violent
August 7 Kathmandu

Though various amicable options are on the table, four major parties - the NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, seem unable to make a breakthrough on the number and delineation of federal units, and the provisions on religion and citizenship. Despite hours-long negotiations between top leaders, major parties, failed to make any headway towards settling the contentious issues. The number and borders of federal states and religion have emerged as prickly issues. The parties have been discussing the agendas for a week but there has been no agreement. Pressure piled by CA members across the party line to keep some geographical areas and zones undivided has also complicated the issue of demarcation.

Non-Violent
August 9 Kathmandu

The four major parties also agreed to incorporate in the citizenship clause the provision of allowing children to acquire citizenship certificate in the name of either father or mother, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Local Development and Federal Affairs Prakash Man Singh. Prime Minister Koirala and top leaders of NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MPRF-D were present during the meeting. However, UCPN-M and MPRF-D, signed the deal with some reservations. "Although we have some reservations in certain clauses of the proposed constitution, we will fully abide by the agreement," Dinanath Sharma, spokesperson of the UCPN-M said.

Non-Violent
August 10 Surkhet District / Kathmandu

Two persons, identified as Tikaram Gautam and Yam Bahadur BC, were killed and 50 others were injured as protests against the proposed provincial demarcations turned violent in Surkhet District. The local administration clamped a curfew from 1 pm till evening. Tikaram of Birendranagar-4 was shot dead by Police within 10 minutes after the curfew was enforced while Yam Bahadur was shot dead by Police during curfew hours at 5 pm. Locals in the District staged protests demanding that the mid-western region be kept intact while demarcating the country into provinces. They also demanded that Surkhet District be developed as the capital of the new province. Also, the demonstrators stormed the office of the drinking water and sewerage corporation at Jhupra in the District and set it on fire. Further, angry protestors also set the house of NC leader and lawmaker Purna Bahadur Khadka on fire. Protestors set fire to several offices, including the District Development Committee Office, Birendranagar Municipality office and the party offices of the NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M. They also set fire to the vehicle of District Police chief SP Rajesh Kumar Lal Karna. The protesters broke to pieces a CCTV camera, television set and other equipment at the district administration office and then set fire to furniture and documents at the UCPN-M office. They also vandalized the offices of the NC, CPN-UML and MPRF-D. Journalist Aising Rokaya of local Bulbule Radio was shot at by Police while covering the protests and sustained a bullet injury in his right leg.

Violent
August 10 Salyan and Rukum Districts / Kathmandu

Locals in Mugu, Kalikot, Jumla and Humla Districts have launched agitations demanding that Karnali Zone be made a separate Karnali province. Likewise, demonstrations were held in Salyan and Rukum Districts demanding that Rapti Zone also be kept intact in the federal system. Agitating locals have pelted stones at the house of Janardan Sharma, CA member of UCPN-M. However, there was no damage to the house, according to Keshar Karki, inspector at DPO, Rukum.

Violent
August 11 Kathmandu

At a special press conference organised in Kathmandu, leaders of four major parties-NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L - urged the people to become calm and cooperate by providing appropriate suggestions, assuring that the state borders would be drawn according to the people's aspirations. They also urged the people to remain alert of the elements that are against the promulgation of new Constitution through CA. The leaders appealed for calm after violent protests erupted in the Western region of the country against the proposed six-state federalism set-up.

Non-Violent
August 13 Kathmandu

Addressing the Legislature-Parliament meeting, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda said that no one could stop the new Constitution from being promulgated at this point of time. He said that the issuance of the Constitution is ensured and that they have taken such courage to that effect. "Such consultations on the process to write the constitution have never taken place in the history. I urged all to provide creative and positive support in the promulgation of the new constitution," said the UCPN-M chief.

Non-Violent
August 16 Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

After the six-province model agreed upon by four parties - the NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L - kicked up a controversy, the leaders of the parties have begun discussion on changing the number of provinces. Ruling NC and CPN-UML have proposed five- and seven-province models, sources said. The debate on federal model took a new turn, following continuous protests in several Districts with protesters seeking to review the six-province model. "We held a positive discussion to address the people's concerns on demarcation. If necessary, we will have to change the number of provinces," said UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda after a meeting of the Special Committee of CPDCC held in Singha Durbar, Kathmandu.

Non-Violent
August 17

Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

The TLUSC, Tharu Karlyankari Sabha and the Tharuhat Joint Struggle Committee announced additional protest programmes to press their demand for a Tharuhat/Tharuwan province. Organising a press conference at Singha Durbar in Kathmandu, Tharu leaders from across the political line announced their decision to enforce a general strike in 22 Tarai Districts for four more days starting on August 18. The TLUSC, an alliance of 32 Tharu lawmakers from the ruling NC, UCPN-M and fringe parties, have also started discussion with Tharu lawmakers in the CPN-UML about the protest. Tharu Karlyankari Sabha, the umbrella organisation of Tharus, and Tharuhat Joint Struggle Committee, an alliance of Tharu NGOs, have been leading the protest on the ground.

Non-Violent
August 17

Singha Durbar / Kathmandu

UCPN-M Vice-chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha said, that his party would not accept five-province model. "There is no chance that we will accept five-province model that is carved keeping in mind the existing five development regions. Rather, the number of provinces may increase from the proposed six," Shrestha said organising a press meet in Singha Durbar.

Non-Violent
August 19

Kathmandu

The meeting of Special Committee under the CPDCC could not produce any result on demarcation of states in the proposed federal set-up. UCPN-M Vice-Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha said the meeting could not decide on the number of provinces as NC President, also the PM, Sushil Koirala, was not ready to accept either of the options presented by them. UCPN-M, at the meeting, had presented a proposal to adopt the seven-province model, which the ruling NC and CPN-UML had jointly put forth in early November last year, according to Shrestha. "But the Prime Minister walked out of the meeting arguing that his party leaders made him sign on various documents," Shrestha added.

Non-Violent
August 21

Kathmandu

Chairman of the CDC, Krishna Prasad Sitaula, submitted the final draft of the Constitution to CA to Chairman Subas Chandra Nembang. The CDC has prepared the final draft after the Special Committee comprising of top leaders of major political parties, NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M, agreed on a seven-Pradesh model of the federal set-up. Handing over the report to Nembang, Sitaula said the draft has ensured promulgation of the constitution at the earliest. He also urged parties who have been launching protests against the draft to come to the negotiation table and find a solution.

Non-Violent
August 25 Kathmandu

Four major parties, NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and MJF-L, reviewed recent violent incidents in several Districts, mainly in Kailali, Rautahat and Sarlahi, and said they would try to address the concerns of agitating people by holding talks with their representatives. They, however, said that they would continue the Constitution-drafting process. The parties, however, have not made any concrete plan or set a timeline for talks with agitating sides. The leaders expressed firm commitment to seek solution through talks and not to stop the constitution-drafting process, according to Paudel.

Non-Violent
August 25 Lazimpat / Kathmandu

Opposing the government decision to mobilize Nepal Army in riot zones, the UCPN-M demanded political solution to the conflict in various parts of the country. A standing committee meeting of the party, held at party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda's residence at Lazimpat, also urged the major political parties to take initiatives for dialogue with various agitating groups. UCPN-M Spokesperson Dinanath Sharma said, "Mobilizing the military can never be a solution and we oppose it." UCPN-M also decided to stand behind the genuine demands raised by indigenous Tharu community.

Non-Violent
August 28 Rajbiraj / Saptari District

Youths aligned to the UDMF set ablaze a billboard at the contact office of CPN-UML, CA member Ranju Thakur in Rajbiraj, the headquarters of Saptari District. According to locals, the agitators set the board ablaze in Rajdevi Chowk. The youths chanted slogans accusing Thakur of being against Madhes and sought mass resignation of the Madhesi CA members aligned to NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M.

Violent
August 30 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Major four political parties have agreed not to halt constitution writing in any excuses. A meeting of the parties held at the Prime Minister's official residence in Baluwatar, Kathmandu, decided not to postpone statute making in the pretext of talks with agitating parties/groups. UCPN-M Vice-chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha said the meet decided to take constitution drafting and talks side by side. The meeting also concluded that is no justification for talks with preconditions.

Non-Violent
September 2 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda directed lawmakers from his party to put in all out efforts to produce a new Constitution and brook no delay in the process now underway in the CA. Dahal also instructed the party's lawmakers to stand united against elements that are hell-bent on creating problems and eventually thwarting the ongoing Constitution-making process. "Promulgating a new constitution through the CA is our top priority at this crucial juncture. So none of us should get confused and we should all put in every effort to that end," Dahal told the lawmakers at the party's parliamentary party meeting. Dahal suggested to the party lawmakers to remain alert against the possible risks that may arise if the Constitution making process gets derailed. The UCPN-M also decided to register amendments to the Constitution bill jointly with other major parties so that they can be endorsed by a two-thirds vote in the full CA.

Non-Violent
September 3 Gaur / Rautahat

Police arrested four Maoist cadres while staging demonstrations in the riot-hit areas of Gaur, the District headquarters of Rautahat. The arrested are Upendra Sah, Jay Prakash Kausal, Sunil Sah and Rajesh Sah of MRMM, a sister wing of the UCPN-M. The UCPN-M cadres were found to be involved in intensifying the protests even as the party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda on September 2, issued a restraining order to his party's lawmakers and other rank and file, asking them not to get involved in any activities that may derail the Constitution drafting process.

Non-Violent
September 3 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Leaders from the four major political parties couldn't make any headway in talks about addressing the demands of the agitating political parties. Top leaders from NC, CPN-UML, UCPN-M and the MPRF-D couldn't reach any conclusion during an hours-long meeting held at the Prime Minister's official residence at Baluwatar, Kathmandu. The week-long deadline set by the CA to register amendments to the constitution bill is expiring on September 5.

Non-Violent
September 5 Kathmandu

Three major political parties-the NC, the CPN-UML and the UCPN-M - registered a common proposal on the amendment of the revised bill of Nepal's Constitution-2015 at the CA Secretariat. With this, a total of 46 amendment proposals were registered. NC Chief Whip Chinkaji Shrestha, CPN-UML Chief Whip Agni Kharel and UCPN-M Chief Whip Girirajmani Pokhrel collectively reached the CA Secretariat and filed the common proposal on the amendment of the draft constitution.

Non-Violent
September 7 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

Top leaders of the NC and the UCPN-M held discussions regarding the political situation of the country at the Prime Minister's official residence in Baluwatar, Kathmandu. During the meeting, the leaders discussed the amendment proposals tabled by political parties to the Constitution Bill, agitation of the Tarai-centric political parties and others. NC leader and Minister for Forests, Mahesh Acharya, said that his party was for promulgating the constitution based on consensus, coordination and unity among the political parties. Also, UCPN-M Vice-Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha said that discussions were held on the demands put forth by the agitating Madhesi parties.

Non-Violent
September 7 Itahari / Sunsari

MJF-D Chairman Bijay Kumar Gachhadar blamed the NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M for the ongoing political instability and unrest in the country. Addressing a mass meeting organised by Tharu Struggle Committee in Itahari, Sunsari, Gachhadar charged that the three major parties' decision to bring out the seven-province federal model by going against the 16-point agreement had plunged the country into violent protest.

Non-Violent
September 9 Kathmandu

Chiefs of the three major political parties -- NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M -- issued a joint statement, calling on the agitating political parties to seek solutions for the latter's demands in Constitution making. PM Sushil Koirala, who is also NC president, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, in the joint statement, urged the disgruntled political parties to immediately end the vandalism and other violent activities and seek solutions through peaceful means.

Non-Violent
September 10 Kathmandu

Leaders and lawmakers of various political parties insisted that Constitution should not be delayed any further under any pretext, as the CA has already invested in the Constitution making effort. While agitating Madhes-based political parties have been demanding halt to the CA process, leaders and lawmakers of major political parties have opposed the demand. Airing their views during the deliberations on the Constitution bill at the CA meeting, NC Vice-President Ram Chandra Paudel, CPN-UML Vice-Chairman Bhim Rawal, and UCPN-M lawmaker Goma Kunwar however urged the agitating parties to sit for talks if they want their demands addressed.

Non-Violent
September 10 Baluwatar / Kathmandu

A day after RPP-N decided to boycott the Constitution making process, three major political parties -- NC, CPN-UML and the UCPN-M -- urged the RPP-N not to boycott the statute making process. NC President and Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda urged RPP-N Chairman Kamal Thapa to participate in the constitution making process during a meeting at the prime minister's official residence in Baluwatar, Kathmandu.

Non-Violent
September 11 Kathmandu

Three major parties - the NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M, decided to halt the constitution-making process for two days and invite the protesting forces to sit for talks. The protesting forces, the UDMF and Tharuwan/Tharuhat Joint Struggle Committee, however, rejected the talks offer again, saying they were not against talks but they could not hold dialogue without the government withdrawing the Nepali Army, normalizing situation in the Tarai Districts, providing compensation to the kin of those killed in Police firing and free treatment to the injured persons.

Non-Violent
September 13 Kathmandu

The CA began clause-wise voting on Constitution bill, setting the stage for the promulgation of new constitution within a few days. At the beginning of the voting, the CA meeting endorsed the first three articles--Article 1 to Article 3--of the new Constitution by an overwhelming majority of the CA through voice votes. The Article 1 and Article 2 were endorsed unanimously by the CA members present at the meeting, while the Article 3 was passed by a majority. In the 601-member CA, two seats have remained vacant since its formation as political parties didn't nominate any lawmaker for these positions. Also, the seat that has been lying vacant after the death of RPP's Surya Bahadur Thapa is yet to be filled. With SP lawmaker Sanjay Sah under suspension and 57 lawmakers from various Madhes-based parties boycotting the ongoing CA process, the effective strength of the CA at present is 597. As the three major political parties - NC (206), CPN-UML (183) and UCPN-M (84) - with support from some other small political parties have stood united in favor of producing the new constitution, the process of endorsing the constitution bill with two-thirds majority is expected to be completed smoothly within the next few days. Officials at the CA secretariat said that they have made all preparations with a plan to promulgate new Constitution by September 18 or 19. "If everything goes as planned, we will endorse the constitution bill by September 17 and introduce it next day," said Nembang.

Non-Violent
September 13 Kathmandu

The CA members of UCPN-M withdrew amendment proposal to the constitution bill registered earlier. They had withdrawn the proposal prior to the CA meeting. According to vice spokesperson of CA Secretariat Sudarshan Kuikel the UCPN-M lawmakers had withdrawn the personal amendment proposal. Prabhu Sah and Santa Kumar Tharu, among others, of the UCPN-M had registered the proposal.

Non-Violent
September 14 Kathmandu

The CA decided to promulgate the new Constitution of the country on September 20, amid a special ceremony at the CA building. CA Chairman Subas Nembang confirmed the decision. "I have set the date for promulgating the new Constitution for September 20 at 5 pm after consulting with the top leaders of major political parties," Nembang said. He said, he fixed the date after consulting PM and NC President Sushil Koirala, CPN-UML Chairman KP Oli and UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda. If the Constitution making process goes as per the plan, the CA secretariat expects the rest of the process of Constitution-making to conclude within a few days. With the completion of the ongoing clause-wise voting process, the CA will hold vote division on the Constitution Bill in a bulk. Then the lawmakers will sign the constitution and the CA chairman will certify the bill and hand it over to the president for promulgation. "After the CA chairman certifies the constitution bill, he will hand over the copy of the statute to the president for signing and declaring the commencement of new constitution amid a special ceremony," reads the rule 110 of CA regulations.

Non-Violent
September 14 Kathmandu

The Article 289 of Part 35 for Transitional Arrangement, which envisages a federal commission to fix boundaries of seven purported federal units as stated in Schedule 4, is yet to put on vote. According to the article, the commission would be formed within six months of the promulgation of new charter with its mandate for a year. In the wake of violent protests, the major parties - NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M- decided to set up the commission to fix provincial boundaries.

Non-Violent
September 14 Kathmandu

Agitating Tharu leaders said that they are positive about sitting for talks with government and major political parties after the prime minister expressed commitment to address their concerns. "We have received a letter from the prime minister with commitment to address our demands. We are positive about sitting for talks," said Tharu leader Raj Kumar Lekhi. UCPN-M lawmaker and Tharu leader Aman Lal Modi said that a meeting of the Tharuhat Struggle Committee to be held on September 16, will decide how to respond to the prime minister's letter.

Non-Violent
September 15 Kathmandu

The CA unanimously endorsed a motion to announce the commencement of the new Constitution on September 20. NC chief whip Chinkaji Shrestha had presented the motion, proposing the date for the announcement of commencement of new charter. The chief whips of two other parties -CPN-UML Agni Prasad Kharel and UCPN-M Giriraj Mani Pokharel - seconded it. The motion was tabled at the CA as per the Rule 49 of the CA Rules, and the date was proposed on a par with the Rule 110 (3).

Non-Violent
September 17 Kathmandu

Top leaders of three major political parties -- the NC, CPN-UML and UCPN-M -- are reportedly close to a deal with MPRF-D following a marathon talks between them. MPRD-D Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachchhadar has been demanding a separate Tharu province. According to sources, the signing of the agreement could not be done as he sought more time for party-internal meeting although a four-point agreement paper was ready.

Non-Violent
September 18 Kathmandu

As many as 14 central leaders of UCPN-M, from the Tarai-Madhes region, stated that they would not comply with the party's decision to welcome the new Constitution and hold celebrations. They instead criticised the party for agreeing with NC and CPN-UML to promulgate the new Constitution, which they claimed was discriminatory. "The party's decision to celebrate the victory without assessing critical situation in Madhes-Tharuhat, joining hands with Congress and UML, is intolerable and painful for us," read a statement issued by them. The new constitution fails to include all and endorsing it is suicidal, the leaders commented, adding, "It does not serve interests of the nation, people and the party." They have urged the party to withdraw from the constitution promulgation process and launch protests. Signatories include Maoist politburo members Ram Chandra Jha, Bishwanath Sah, Prabhu Sah and Mahendra Paswan; central committee members Ram Rijhan Yadav, Ram Kumar Sharma, Hakikulla Khan, Bharat Sah, Ghanashyam Yadav, Ram Chandra Mandal, Upendra Prasad Sah and Chinak Kurmi; and central advisors Kalamuddin Rain and Ramesh Ranjan Jha.

Non-Violent
September 21 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda addressing a ceremony at Tundikhel in Kathmandu said "people's era" has begun with the promulgation of Nepal's Constitution, 2072.

Statement
September 22 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda during a meeting held with the Tharu lawmakers and leaders at his residence in Lazimpat said that he is making efforts to address the demands put forth by the Tharu community.

Statement
September 24 Kathmandu

UCPN-M senior leader Baburam Bhattarai in a press statement said "As most demands of protesters are similar to the note of dissents formally registered by the UCPN-Maoist in the Constituent Assembly. I express my support and solidarity to the demands. The hills and mountains cannot sleep well while the Tarai-Madhes, which houses half of the population, is burning."

Statement
September 26 Kathmandu

UCPN-M leader Baburam Bhattarai quit his party and also resigned as MP. Bhattarai said the justification of UCPN-M had ended with the promulgation of the new Constitution. He also indicated to form his own political "force" within a couple of months, amid differences with the major Nepalese political parties over the new Constitution.

Non-violent
October 4 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal addressing an interaction on the new constitution organized by the party in Kathmandu said that various forces have been hatching conspiracy to break an alliance of major political forces that were actively involved in promulgating the new constitution.

Statement
October 7 Morang District

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal speaking with journalists at the Biratnagar Airport in Morang District stressed on the need of a National Unity Government as the nation is in a critical time now.

Statement
October 9 Kathmandu

UCPN-M leaders met CPN-UML and NC leaders and emphasized the need for three-party unity for the formation of next Government so that they could effectively resolve the current challenges.

Non-Violent
October 15

Kathmandu

A meeting of the top leaders of the political parties supporting the formation of the incumbent Government formed an 11-member high-level political coordination committee under the leadership of UCPN-M Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Non-Violent
October 16

Kathmandu

Parliament unanimously elected UCPN-M leader Onsari Gharti Magar as its speaker. Magar is the first woman speaker in the country's history. She is also the first woman to reach a top-five post in Nepal.

Non-Violent
October 19 Kathmandu

Tharu MPs representing UCPN-M threatened to quit Parliament membership if the party does not address the concerns of the Tharu community. There are eight Tharu MPs from the party.

Statement
October 24 Dhading District

An unidentified gang attacked UCPN-M Dhading District Committee member Kariman Tamang with a khukuri. Tamang was critically injured in the attack.

Violent
November 3 Kathmandu

45 leaders of UCPN-M quit the party en mess to join a campaign for forming a new political force led by former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai.

Non-Violent
November 4 Kathmandu

UCPN-M during a Standing Committee meeting of the party held at the party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal's residence in Lazimpat, Kathmandu expelled five of its CC members for supporting Baburam Bhattarai's campaign to form a new political force.

Non-Violent
November 12

Chitwan District

UCPN-M expelled four leaders Ramesh Regmi, Bishnu Hari Timilsena, Umakant Chapagain and Kamal Prasad Chapagain for acting against the party in Chitwan District. The leaders joined the new political force established by former Prime Minister Dr Baburam Bhattarai.

Non-Violent
December 1 Kathmandu

UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal presenting his political paper at the party's central committee meeting in Kathmandu proposed creating an eighth province by adding one more to the seven-province model adopted in the new constitution.

Non-Violent
December 8 Parbat District

29 UCPN-M cadres joined Baburam Bhattarai-led 'new political power' in Parbat District. Issuing a statement, the cadres said that they decided to desert UCPN-M accusing its Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal forming the party's District committee unilaterally.

Non-Violent
December 10 Rautahat District

Police arrested 12 cadres of Madhesi Force in course of staging torch rally at Gaur town in Rautahat District. All the cadres had deserted UCPN-M party along with Baburam Bhattarai.

Non-Violent
December 23 Kathmandu

UCPN-M restructured the party by reorganizing the party committees based on seven provinces of the new constitution. The party has formed its seven provincial committees and nominated heads of the committees dissolving its 14 state committees that were in practice ever since the insurgency era.

Non-Violent

 

Source:Compiled from news reports and are provisional.

 

 

 

 

 
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