* The Maoists need to clearly separate the political and the military responsibilities among their politicians. In a democratic framework, the line between these two responsibilities cannot be blurred. The Maoist comrades need to give up their military positions if they have been elected in the CA or nominated for civil posts. Military officials, whether in or outside the cantonments, should not hold a government position.

* Two armies cannot exist in a single state. According to an amendment to Section 146 of the Interim Constitution, a ministerial-level committee should immediately be given the responsibility of managing the cantonments, as directed by the multiparty special committee. The ministerial-level committee will work with technical help from UNMIN military advisers and specialists. The government can also be assisted by experienced and capable army officers, who have served in UN Peacekeeping missions, for this purpose.

* The under-age rebels should be temporarily shifted from the cantonments to a non-political shelter. UNICEF and other local and international organisations working with children can help in this regard.

* A high-level national security council must be established to gain the people's trust and respect by addressing the long-term issues regarding improvement of security and policies of army integration.

* The process to re-establish the defence ministry as a competent and influential body should be started. A respected politician should be the nominated as defence minister. The officials and the employees at the ministry should be specialists or should have at least a minimum of knowledge about military and politics.