Address the weaknesses of the peace process: ICG International Crisis Group (ICG) has warned that the violent unrest in Terai could generate a new conflict if weaknesses in the country’s peace process are not addressed in time. In its latest report entitled ‘Nepal’s Troubled Tarai Region’, made public on Monday, the ICG examines the political exclusion of Madhesi people. “Faced with long-standing discrimination, Madhesis have now turned politically assertive and are demanding equal rights,” the report said. The report further states that the recent protests and fatal confrontations shocked the political elite, which had largely ignored the disquiet brewing in the region and has suggested that the national political process must be made more inclusive and responsive, and constituent assembly elections later this year must be free and fair if a new conflict is to be avoided. The ICG said that there is collapse of trust between Madhesis and the state, frequent clashes between political rivals and an increase in communal tension. “The risks of worsening violence are real, but identity-based demands can be dealt with peacefully through a flexible constitutional framework and a robust electoral competition,” it said. The ICG has criticised the coalition government for being reluctant to execute measures that would make for a more inclusive system. “Ineffective communication of positive steps that have been taken, such as reform of citizenship laws, has detrimentally added to the volatile mix of unresolved grievances from the Maoist insurgency,” the report adds. The group asked the government leaders in Kathmandu to address the reasonable demands for political participation of all excluded groups, revise the electoral system, use affirmative action to boost Madhesi presence in the civil service and security forces and initiate discussions on options for federalism while leaving final decisions to the constituent assembly. The ICG also asked the Madhesi political leaders to avoid replication of exclusive models at the regional level and develop a clear political agenda. “The international community must maintain momentum for the constituent assembly elections to be held in November with both positive political pressure and practical assistance,” the ICG said. nepalnews.com ia July 10 07