Coalition partners divided over PLA integration

Kathmandu, Oct 20 (UNI) The political parties in the Communist dominated government are divided over the integration of the Maoist combatants into the Nepal Army.

At a time when the Maoists have said their former fighters will be integrated into the Nepal Army within three months, Minister for Commerce and Supplies Rajendra Mahato, representing Sadbhavana Party, said politically indoctrinated combatants should not be integrated into the Army.

"The integration of the Maoist combatants into the Army (NA) will seriously affect the country, '' kantipur quoted Mahato as saying.

Nepali Congress, which is not in the present government has also said it does not accept the integration of politically indoctrinated Maoists combatants in the Army.

There are nearly 20,000 Maoist combatants living in various camps across Nepal under the monitoring of the United Nations.

Mahato warned that he would quit the government and Parliament if the constitution is not drafted for the welfare of Madhesi people.

He also said he would lead the third Madhes movement if the government doesn't implement the agreement inked earlier with Madhesi parties at the earliest.

UNI XC KK DS1310