Janajati groups affiliated with the Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (Nefin) chanted slogans against the draft constitution and asked the major parties to federate the country based on identity and economic capability and in accordance with the past accord.

Addressing the protesters, Nefin leaders and Janajati lawmakers announced fresh protest against the six-province federal model agreed by four major parties on Saturday and other regressive issues of the draft constitution.

Four major parties including the MJF-Loktantrik on Saturday agreed to federate the country into six provinces.  Janajati lawmakers said that they would continue to oppose the constitution draft unless it guarantees people’s aspirations for inclusiveness and equality.

Nefin General Secretary and CPN-UML leader Pemba Bhote said the federation decided to celebrate the World’s Indigenous People’s Day in protest against the draft that does not ensure equal treatment to marginalised and excluded communities of the country. August 9 is celebrated as the world’s Indigenous people’s day.

Janajati leaders from across the political spectrum have been demanding federalism based on identity. They have also demanded formation of special zone, special areas and autonomous regions as per the past accord between the Janajati groups and the government. They have also opposed the government discussion to merge Aadivasi Janajati Commission with the Inclusive Commission.