Nepal's first identity was that of a Hindu kingdom but this is no longer the case following the declaration of a secular state, a move that has caused concern among some Hindus. Intellectuals say that there is now danger of a religious war due to the attempts to undermine Hinduism and promote other religions in the name of democracy. The house declaration, made under pressure from NGOs funded by Christian, Islamic and Buddhist countries, has shocked 300 million Hindus worldwide. Now there is a danger that Hindu activists will organise mass protests before the constituent assembly takes place. At a time when the Maoists have still not disarmed, comes the risk that Hindus will also take up arms in the name of religion, jeopardising the newfound peace. It would be natural for Hindus to be provoked if a secular government allowed cows to be slaughtered legally.

For now, the government has to justify clearly why the country had to lose its identity as a Hindu state, one which was a source of national pride. It cannot deny sovereign citizens their birthright to recognise their country as a Hindu Kingdom. Shiba Sena has organised huge protest rallies in Birganj and Rajbiraj on Sunday to condemn the declaration of a secular state. India's opposition Bharatiya Janta Party has also criticised the move and reportedly the Nepal chapter of the World Hindu Federation sent letters to MPs urging them to not support the move.