Nepali Times
From The Nepali Press
Maoists push IDPs



Internally displaced families taking refuge at Rajena camp in Nepalganj are showing no signs of returning to their villages despite an 'order' given by local Maoist workers one month ago. Media coverage of the refugees' plight has given the rebels a bad name internationally and they have been pushing hard for the 100 or so remaining families to return to their villages. Around 216 families from Mugu, Jumla, Bajura and Dailekh took shelter in the camp but many left due to a shortage of food and shelter. Some went to India to try to make a living. The rebels are spreading the word in the camp that their party is willing to forgive the IDPs, as if they were criminals. They have also promised to return their property and ensure their security but at the same time are warning that they will destroy the camps if the IDPs refuse to leave. The Maoist leader of Banke-Bardia, Athak, even met CDO Binod Kumar Adhikari a week ago and asked for his help in removing the camps. Rights group INSEC mediated three round of talks between the rebels and IDPs and say an agreement was reached after the former promised to make provisions for travel expenses and food for the IDPs for three months. Despite that reported deal and the threats, the families are not willing to give up the camp unless the Maoists make visible provisions for their livelihood and security. "The Maoists killed all our cows and buffaloes, tore down our houses and our farms are all barren," says Ratna Lal from Mugu, a UML worker had fled home due to Maoist intimidation. The government has not uttered a word on the welfare of the IDPs.


LATEST ISSUE
638
(11 JAN 2013 - 17 JAN 2013)


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