The Maoists should realise the important contribution that the parties made that permitted an armed group such as theirs to play a role in the peaceful people's movement. They should also see that they are now able to reach the masses at a time when questions were being raised about their 10 years of violent conflict. There is a big difference between going to the masses with guns and without arms. Now, the Maoists should be able to get used to the latter. In addition, they should also start to respect differences of opinion if they really are sincere about playing a role in a multiparty system.

Only this will earn them the trust and confidence of other parties and enable healthy political competition. The Maoists' arms have traumatised everyone, especially political leaders and workers. It's time for party leaders to openly discuss this with the Maoists. At a time when there is complete consensus on framing a new constitution through a constituent assembly, the Maoists have an equal responsibility with the parties to ensure those elections are successful. The parliament is fully prepared to move ahead by breaking the state's traditions in order to find a peaceful political solution. But the Maoists have retorted that they will only participate in an interim government after parliament is dissolved. This goes against the spirit of the people's movement, especially at a time when parliament is actively working to find solutions.