IT was generally felt that the future of Nepal which had long been in a political flux had to be decided by the people of the country. They responded to the call. Despite some obstruction put up by the Maoists, elections were held on schedule and a record 70% of voters exercised their franchise. It showed the interest of the majority of the people in restoring stability by adopting a Constitution and ensuring government formation. The supervision of ex-US President Jimmy Carter contributed to the smooth conduct of the polls. The election results sprang some surprises. The Maoists had so far been the leading party but the split in the organization, their threat of violence and the chaos resulting from single party dominance caused their unpopularity as did their muscle flexing before and during the polls. Election results have not yet been fully announced but so far the verdict seems to be a hung assembly and no party is likely to win an absolute majority. So far, the results are: Nepali Congress 105 seats, the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) 91 seats and Maoists a distant third with 26 seats.
The Maoists have complained of irregularities at the polls. They are demanding that the new government should be formed on the basis of consensus among political parties. They want to be represented in the government. Nepali Congress and moderate Communist leaders have been urging the Maoist leadership to join the Constituent Assembly which they have threatened to boycott unless there is an investigation into alleged poll irregularities. They have been assured that all parties will be included in drafting the Constitution. One hopes that public opinion will prevail for a government in Nepal cannot function without a Constitution. India would welcome a stable government in Kathmandu led by the Nepali Congress with which the democratic forces in this country have a long connection.
