Direct foreign intervention in Nepal is growing. Now it is not just suggesting and advising but they are directing, commanding and in some instances have even started telling us what to do. We Nepalis ourselves play a big role in encouraging such intervention and this has increased after the seven parties started their movement towards restoration of democracy and called on foreigners for help. In response, the regime too has started leaning on its allies. The international community is happy to be a part of this tug of war and that is the reason why they have been getting away with making statements that are a direct threat to our sovereignty and independence.

This comes more from the US, UK, India and the EU. As well-wishers there is a way to express concern, instead their involvement has reached a level where it is starting to create rifts within society. Word is out that the UK and Switzerland have promised to provide Rs 350 million to Nepal to promote democracy. The amount is going to go to the seven parties movement. It is obvious that the government is going to react by icreasing its own repression. It is the people who will suffer. So far the seven parties have said they will continue their movement without help from external sources but if the foreigners are willing to help they will not refuse the offer.

When King Gyanendra was on his walkabout in Lalipur, he mentioned that the movement was 'being fuelled by foreign money'. At that time seven parties criticised the king but it is now proving to be true. So, foreign money is being used to burn tyres and pelt stones and foreign money is also being used to buy teargas and rubber bullets. Foreigners think of this as something to be happy about but this kind of polarisation will not solve Nepal's crisis.