Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba isn't taking chances. Following the breakdown of the third round of talks with the Maoists last year, when the insurgents withdrew from negotiations and resorted to extreme violence, Deuba has been viewing every Maoist move with suspicion. At a recent gathering of political cadres in Birganj, he announced that the Maoists would have to lay down their arms and indulge in a little self-criticism before they come to talks. Deuba was sceptical about Maoist supremo Prachanda's recent press release indicating the Maoists' desire for a political solution and the possibility of participating in the November elections. This is another underhanded step to undermine the government, Deuba told listeners. He doesn't believe the Maoists will give up violence willingly, and is concerned about a repeat of last November.