India cannot be directly blamed for the mess in Nepal, but the sad truth is South Block’s policy has gone terribly wrong.
India has rolled out the red carpet for prime minister (PM) Madhav Nepal on his maiden visit to the country, but how long the coalition government in Nepal will last is a major concern for Delhi. Unless Maoists join the government, the chances of stability appear dim.
India cannot be directly blamed for the mess in Nepal, but the sad truth is South Block’s policy has gone terribly wrong.
Much of this has to do with Delhi’s suspicion and distrust of Maoists, propelled by fear of growing Chinese influence in India’s backyard.
By appearing to back the army in its standoff with Maoist PM Prachanda, India exposed its preference for army chief Gen Rookmangud Katawal.
But without Maoists on board, the important work of drafting the Republican constitution cannot proceed.
Unless there is a rapprochement between all stakeholders in the Himalayan kingdom, it will further slide into chaos. That will be even more dangerous for India.
When foreign minister Sujata Koirala was here last week, she pointed out that China was pouring in enormous funds for infrastructure projects in Nepal.
Madhav also tried on Wednesday to persuade Indian business houses to invest in his country. He will travel to Mumbai on Friday with the message. But businessmen are reluctant because of constant strikes and attacks on Indians in Nepal.
Though no agreements have been signed, Delhi is readying major financial assistance to Nepal. It will put in around Rs200 crore to set up two integrated customs points along the border. It is also considering investing Rs1,400 crore in road and rail projects in Nepal.
But at the moment Nepal needs more than just funding. It needs rapprochement between Maoists and political parties. “India should think of its long-term aims in Nepal. Stability is important,” former ambassador to Kathmandu KV Rajan said, adding, “Delhi should concentrate on ensuring stability in Nepal, instead strategic interests.” He implied that India should not get into an anti-Maoist mode because of fears of Chinese influence.
India’s clumsy handling of the crisis in Nepal made it an easy target. Both Maoists and the general public were critical of Delhi.
“Finger-pointing is a given in Nepal,” another former envoy Deb Mukherjee said, adding, “India needs to be careful at every step.”
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