Some armed groups have said they will not allow elections to take place in the Tarai. But election campaigning has intensified in the last week, and their threats are now irrelevant. Our state is no more an oppressive one. Many disenchanted groups have been brought to the table and their demands fulfilled. For the last two years the government has always kept the door of dialogue open, and has proved that it is flexible. Those who still want to use weapons in search of justice in today's Nepal are out of touch with reality.

The leaders are going outside of Kathmandu, and party members campaigning round the country. Election fever is here and voters are no longer afraid. The Tarai, which has been gripped by violence for the last two years, is also hopeful about the elections. People in the Tarai understand that the constituent assembly elections will help address their demands that surfaced in the Madhes Uprising last year.

These armed groups are now obstacles to the redressing the issues of the Madhes. They have no clear political vision, depend on threats and violence, and are not trusted by the people. These groups, including Goit and Jwala, need to understand that we live in a Nepal where problems are discussed freely. Soon nobody will view them as people trying to change society, but as criminals.

Solutions to democratic differences must be peaceful. Those engaged in armed struggle should take heed of the recent agreement between the government and United Madhesi Democratic Front. If they want to maintain any relevance, they will have to change themselves.