Disagreement over Terai autonomy remains after two months in Nepal

Meetings between Nepali government, Madhesi representatives unsuccessful so far · Madhesi activists hold demonstrations, demand larger province, increased autonomy and recognition

30.11.201513.00h

Nepal's federal provinces.

A stalemate between the Nepali government and several Madhesi organizations and political parties continues as it has been two months since the three main Nepalese parties agreed to pass a new federal Constitution for the Himalayan country. Madhesis are holding protests since summer as they perceive that the new Constitution continues to marginalize them.

Government and Madhesi representatives met on Monday, but said they did not reach an agreement on the Madhesi grievances. Further talks have been announced for Wednesday.

The Madhesis are one of Nepal's main peoples. They inhabit the country's southern plains, along the border with India.

According to the Constitution adopted in September, Nepal has been divided into seven federal, semi-autonomous provinces. Madhesi parties argue that some Madhesi traditional lands have been left outside the Madhesi-majority province -number 2, in yellow, on the map above.

The parties further complain that the degree of autonomy and recognition granted to the Madhesis under the new Constitution is insufficient.

Keywords: Constitution, Madhesi people