![](https://archive.nepalitimes.com/cms/ib/data/1/1/314.jpg)
A few weeks ago, all external powers supported cooperation between the king and the parties. They emphasised unity among the parties before they could work together with the king. India, Britain and the EU openly welcomed the solidarity. This really angered the government who summoned the British and Indian ambassadors and gave them letters of warning. This was a new and deplorable incident in Nepal's diplomatic history. On the other hand, American Ambassador James Moriarty has used fear of the Maoists to pressure the parties to unite and has been supporting the royal move, substantiating the rumour of the royal move being decided upon with American support. Amidst all this, the Royal Nepali Army made public Pranchanda's audiotape to prove that India had an unholy alliance with the Maoists.
This was no small matter for New Delhi. Then unfolded a series of reports that Maoist leaders Baburam Bhattarai and Krishna Bahadur Mahara had met Indian Communist Party General Secretary Prakash Karat with the help of the Indian security. After the Delhi meeting, it looks like the Indian intent was to bring the parties and the Maoists closer. Even members of Kathmandu's professional 'civil society' who make their opinions on the basis of which way the wind blows in Delhi have now started echoing the Indian line. They see the king as more to blame for the failure of unity between the king and the parties. This view has gained momentum for a while and if some sudden event does not affect it, the attitude in Kathmandu might be like that of Delhi-if it is a choice between the king and the Maoists, either will do.