'Do not believe in rumours'

By Our Correspondent 

Bharatpur, Apr. 28: Minister for Home Affairs Bal Krishna Khand Wednesday said that baseless rumors were still being spread that the local election would not be held on the slated date of May 13. 

Speaking at a press conference organised by Nepal Press Union Chitwan at the Bharatpur Airport today, Home Minister Khand reiterated that the election would be held on the scheduled date of May 13.

"In the past, there were rumors that elections would not be held. There were rumors that the constitution would not be promulgated even days after its promulgation. Apart from other things, the 14th General Convention of the Nepali Congress was also said to be not held in time. 

There are still some rumors going around against the local elections. But the elections will be held on the scheduled date," he said." He also said the election would be held in a free, fair and fearless environment.

Stating that the current government is standing on the foundation of a new alliance, he said that the Congress leaders and cadres should also take the electoral alliance lightly. 

Minister Khand recalled that the 14th General Convention of the Nepali Congress (NC) had approved to give continuity to the present alliance forged with four other parties. 

"During the General Convention, President Sher Bahadur Deuba, who is also the Prime Minister, said that this is not just a power-sharing but it is essential to safeguard democracy and the constitution," he said, adding, 

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“The current government stands on the foundation of the alliance and is compelled to forge an alliance in the local elections."

“It is the responsibility of the Nepali Congress to defend the alliance for the protection of the constitution and democracy,” Minister Khand added.

"I would like to extend my heartfelt respect to the leaders of the Nepali Congress in Chitwan. We will move forward through dialogue and discussion to save Chitwan's reputation and consult to find ways to protect the party, "said Minister Khand.

Nepali Congress has already requested the leaders to withdraw their rebel candidacies they have filed. 

Now their independent candidacy will be withdrawn, Minister Khand said. 

Minister Khand also addressed a meeting of the party's district committee held at the party's office in Kamalnagar, Chitwan. 

He also addressed the heads of government offices and security agencies in the district.

Addressing the office heads, Minister Khand instructed all the security chiefs and office heads to help the government  hold the local elections in a free and fair way.