Nepal's peace process 'role model': Lawmakers

Kathmandu, August 14: The lawmakers have viewed Nepal's peace process as a role model of peace initiative in the world.     

During deliberations on a bill relating to Investigation of enforced disappeared persons, truth and reconciliation commission (third amendment) at the lower house on Wednesday, the lawmakers argued Nepal's peace process was heading to a logical conclusion based on its unique identity. The major political parties had come together to conclude the transitional justice, which was due to be addressed for long, they added.     

Lawmaker of Janata Samajbadi Party, Ranju Kumari Jha, believed once the bill on transitional justice is passed by the parliament it would elevate Nepal's identity in the world.     

Conflict management and peace process would be finalized properly with it, she added.     

"We all political parties and lawmakers deserve accolade for it," she said, adding that the bill would make the parties further united for a national consensus.     

She further said the conflict victims will feel sigh of relief.     

Similarly, Abdul Khan of Janamat Party, said the bill entered the parliament not only with the efforts of major three parties but also with the ownership of all other parties represented in the parliament. The political unity to ensure justice to victims has given positive message to the world again, he reminded.     

All concerned sides should work in unison to ensure justice to victims in line with international norms and principle of transitional justice. It is worth mentioning that the victims are allowed to file the application against for justice, according to him.     

Ganga Ram Chaudhari of Nagarik Unmukti Party also observed that the presentation of bill was a welcome deed. He also demanded the government that it paid heed to those who sacrificed their lives in Tikapur, Tharuhat, Madhes and Dalit movements.     

Ram Prakash Chaudhari of Loktantrik Samajbadi Party expressed belief that those victimized during the armed conflict would get compensation, reparation and upkeep as per their status after the passage of the bill. "It gives special message to the world," he added.     

Prem Suwal of NWPP however suggested that the bill needs to have adequate discussion as the peace process is a serious issue.     

Rastriya Janamorcha Party leader Chitra Bahadur KC also objected to the bill's provision of authorizing Attorney General to proceed with the case against any perpetrator.     

Prabhu Saha of Aam Janata Party extended best wishes for smooth wading of the peace process through the passage of the important bill.     

The bill was also welcomed by independent lawmakers Amaresh Kumar Singh and Yogendra Mandal. They thanked parties for bringing the bill though late