"Having seen the government's flexibility in the peace process, the Maoist rebels must understand it is committed to peace. If there are disagreements, they should sit across a table instead of limiting their communication to letters. A few informal meetings before the third round of negotiations should iron out complications. One side alone cannot be held with the responsibility of building a conducive environment for talks. The government's moves are quite positive and I believe the Maoist rebels will reciprocate in the same way.

I don't believe that the Maoists will walk away. The rebels were serious about the peace talks earlier and I have no doubt that they still believe it is the only way out. In the last few months there was a change in government, and subsequently, in the negotiation team. The ensuing confusion probably prompted the Maoists to go underground. Since the government has made good arrangements for their security, the rebels should cast suspicion aside and resume talks."