Why is constitution writing on the backburner?
The Constitutional Committee should have prepared an integrated draft from the concept papers submitted by thematic committees by now. But the committee that comprises top leaders from the big parties failed to do so as they are busy with party activities and foreign trips. This is why the constitution-writing process could not gather momentum.

The Judicial System Committee, of which you are also a member, proposed that anyone outside the judiciary service can be picked for the post of chief justice. How rational is that?
Yes, we proposed that anyone from within as well as outside the judiciary service could be eligible for the post of chief justice. It does not mean we should pick up anyone from the street for the post. Since parliament is accountable to the people, it would be better if a mechanism under parliament appoints the chief justice.

Are you saying the judiciary should be under parliament?
The judiciary will be under a mechanism of parliament. This will discourage corruption and delay in service delivery in the judiciary.

What kind of democracy will it be where provinces are created on the basis of ethnicity and the judiciary is under parliament?
The provinces should be created on a regional basis, not an ethnic basis. People within the provinces should feel they really have a stake in the provinces. Having the judiciary under parliament is aimed at discouraging corruption and irregularities.

Will the constitution be written by May 28?
The big political parties are racing for power, which has put the constitution-writing process at risk. People will surely point at us because of their inability.

What will you do if the constitution is not drafted by May 28?
I will follow the party's decision. I will resign if the party decides to do so. There is no point resigning alone.

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Constitution 2010, Nepali Times coverage of issues related to writing the new constitution