New ICG report on Nepal; Maoists to receive government allowance

While Nepal’s Maoists have accepted multiparty democracy and put an end to their armed struggle, they could still resort to physical confrontation if the peace process stagnates, according to a new report from the International Crisis Group.

The Nepali government has, however, made a move towards reconciliation that suggests an understanding of the need to make concessions in this precarious situation.

An agreement has been reached in which the government will pay an allowance to former Maoist soldiers, whilst also making a commitment to improve conditions in the vast camps housing them.

The government’s decision came as a response to the Maoists' threat this weekend that they would take to the streets to protest for better access to water, electricity, roads and communications in the camps.

Maoists have recently begun to interrupt the work of the United Nation's arms monitors in the country, hoping to draw attention to what they perceive as injustices against them by the government.

The former fighters have been living in a collection of camps across Nepal as a result of the peace agreement signed between the Maoists and the government last year.

It is thought that these camps will remain in place until elections are held later this year for a special assembly, which is thought to hold the key to a finalised peace settlement.

Read more about the history of the conflict in Nepal.