Nepal Army objects Prachand's statement

Kathmandu, June 23: The Nepalese Army (NA) has expressed serious concern over the comments made by Maoist Chairman Prachanda about the need to reduce the number of soldiers.

''The Nepali Army is seriously concerned over objectionable comments and allegations from Maoist chairman during the recent special government program organized at an important venue, which was telecast live all over the country and attended by top political leaders," The Kathmandu Post quoted a statement issued by Brigadier General Nepal Bhushan Chand as saying.

Speaking at a press conference after the high level meeting with the Prime Minister and senior leaders of the seven parties at Prime minister's residence in Baluwatar, Prachand had said : Nepal Army is good for nothing except "murdering people and raping Nepali women''.

''Nepal Army cannot fight Chinese or Indian armies, it should be reduced to 10,000 or 20,000'', he said.

The army spokesman said Nepal Army has behind it over two centuries old culture of glorious nationalism, protection of territorial integrity and selfless sacrifice for people's security.

''Nepal's history is testimony to the fact that from the past to the present, the NA has always remained and will continue to remain committed to protect the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity and dignity of the people under the direct command of the prevailing constitutional government,'' the statement added.

Parliament has changed the name of Royal Nepal Army to Nepal army and scrapped the title of supreme commander in chief of the army enjoyed by the King.

The government and the Maoists have signed an eight point agreement during the talks held at the Prime Minister's residence last week agreeing management of arms by the UN before the election of the constituent assembly.

UNI

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