This is an issue which I have been closely monitoring. I have read 2 contrasting editorials on THE HINDU & THE PIONEER regarding what should be India's approach towards Nepal.
THE ISSUE
King Gyanendra suspended the Parliament, declared emergency and assumed the role of a DE FACTO ruler. Press has been censored, Public rallies, meetings etc has been out lawed. India,along with the US and the EU has suspended all mititary aid to the world's only hindu kingdom. The king has played it smart by raising the China card.Now it is also heard that the king is allowing both China & Pakistan to open new consulates in regions which has proximity to Bihar.
THE HINDU'S STANCE
The Hindu came up with a typical leftist stance on the issue with them opposing any aid to Nepal. The Hindu constantly comes up with editorials protesting the evil motives of the king. The paper often ends up criticising the Indian Govt for failing to apply enough pressure on the Nepal monarch.
THE PIONEER'S STANCE
The Pioneer also criticised the Manmohan Singh Govt. But this criticism was for not understanding the ground reality and supporting the monarch. As the US & the EU are not big players in Nepal,the newspaper wants India not to allow China to take advantage of the situation and take remedial steps to counter the Chinese clout.
THE LEGEND'S VIEW
Both the point of view are correct. This is a tricky situation. But I will go with The Hindu's stand. The situation in Nepal is some what similar to that of Myanmar with Aung Sang Syu Ki still under house arrest and the country still ruled by the military junta. But Myanmar does not receive military support from India and Myanmar does not harbour Anti-India activities.
Nepal's geographical position is very important for the country and any disturbance in Nepal can disturb India's security. India could look at the long term gain and should support the political parties in Nepal.India should use its intelligence forces to create an uproar against the King and also to bring together both the political parties and the Maoists rebels(i.e. after making them shed their arms).Nepal does not have access to sea and it uses Indian Ports to do their trade. India should use this as a weapon. India should not be too wary of the China card as an ambitious China would be more a headache to Nepal than to India.The King will have to abdicate sooner or later and Democracy will prevail. A democratic Nepal is essential for the safety and security of India and we should work for it.
Legend
