Indian trucks cross freely into Nepal for first time in four months

The Madhesi protestors – an ethnic group in Nepal’s central and eastern plains – have been agitating against provisions of Nepal’s new Constitution, which they say perpetuate discrimination they have long faced.

“I am confident that the differences and disputes can be addressed through talks among us”, said the prime minister, who had publicly announced that it would not be appropriate for him to visit India unless the border blockade ends.

Swarup, however, said that now the situation has improved quite a lot.

“The finance minister’s discussions with Indian officials will be focussed on the line of credit being extended to Nepal by India, regular assistance and post-earthquake reconstruction projects”, said Dhundi Raj Pokharel, minister-economic at the Nepali Embassy.

“Poudel is scheduled to meet our external affairs minister (Sushma Swaraj) and our finance minister (Arun Jaitley)”, he said.

Mr.Oli’s planned visit to Delhi has been a contentious issue in Nepal, especially since India had been accused of supporting the blockade in Birgunj and the rest of the border.

The agitation by Madhesis in Terai region bordering India paralysed services in Nepal and triggered huge shortage of essential supplies, including fuel and medicines, as the protesters blocked all border trade points between the two countries. India closed the border due to what it called security concerns. He said the government and people of Nepal were thankful for India’s support to the movement for democracy in the Himalayan nation, peace building efforts and Constitution making process. This is in nearly complete contrast with the border with Pakistan, which is one of the most militarized zones in the world.

Trucks began moving through the main border point at Birgunj for the first time in more than four months on Friday after the traders chased away the protesters.

Three major demands of the Madhesi community include re-demarcation of the boundary, inclusion of proportionate representation and allocation of Parliament seats on the basis of population.