May 28, 2008 will be a day of utmost importance in the history of Nepal. The 240 years old monarchy came to an end as the newly constituted assembly opted for a republic Nepal and dethroned the King. With the change of guard in Nepal, the equation has changed for all those in Nepal and all those who are outside Nepal, such as India.
The introduction of democracy in Nepal, has far reaching implications for us and that too in many areas, such as political, economic and from the point of power equations in the Indian subcontinent. With the rising influence of Maoists in Nepal there is a constant danger of proximate relations between Nepal and China making the power equations adverse for India. At a point of time when the Indian government is trying its level best to tame down the Pakistani government and the terrorists in Bangladesh, there is a need to maintain peace on Chinese borders. With the Chinese advent in Sikkim it becomes even more imperative to have good bond with Nepal as we used to have in the past. However as the Maoists walk in this possibility is seen deeming.
The way the bill to dethrone the King was passed in the Nepal's constituent assembly, there are signs that the democracy will take its own time to mature in Nepal. The constitutional experts have already expressed their concern over the method of dethroning the king. There is a fear in the air of diplomat circles of Nepal as there is a lack of 'in house' constitutional experts and drafter of future policies that are essential for a democracy to succeed. A lack of clear action plan for the democratic system to adhere to, may lead the nation to a state of anarchy. Moreover there is always a threat of an 'external' influence or military rule backed by 'external' forces. It is going to be a tough time for the Nepalese and even tougher for the neighbours of Nepal. |
