Finance Minister Ram Sharan Mahat on Monday provided a detailed briefing to Kathmandu-based donors on the new constitution in an effort to dispel perceptions about the new constitution not being inclusive and representative of the aspirations of a broad section of the society.

Mahat also drew the attention of the donor community on the severe shortage of essential goods largely as a result of the blockade by India.

The “Briefing Paper on The Constitution of Nepal (2072): Background and Highlights in Relation to the Principle of Inclusion,” prepared by the Finance Ministry, which was presented to the donors, offers a comprehensive breakdown of the different provisions and articles vis-à-vis inclusion. The paper provides a broad overview of how the principle of inclusion will be translated into tangible actions for the marginalised groups, including proportional representation and entry into different government services. Mahat sought donor understanding and support at this critical juncture. He highlighted the hardships faced by the Nepalis in light of the ongoing strikes and protests in the Tarai and subsequent restrictions imposed by India on the movement of Nepal-bound cargo trucks.

This is the first time the government has officially raised the issue of Indian restriction with diplomatic community since it began on September 23.

Describing India’s action as ‘semi-blockade’, Mahat said the restriction had dealt a ‘heavy blow’ to the daily life of citizens, while affecting the country’s industrial production, trade, tourism and revenue collection adversely.

“If the situation is not improved shortly, Nepal could face severe problems resulting in a humanitarian crisis,” said Minister Mahat, while expressing hope that the issue with India would be resolved soon.

A majority of those in attendance kept their silence, according to one participant.

Representatives from the Asian Development Bank, the United Kingdom, Norway, the United Nations, World Health Organisation, International Finance Corporation, USAID and Switzerland, among others, attended the meeting. Only the Swiss ambassador to Nepal and the British ambassador spoke during the meeting. Swiss Ambassador Urs Herren advised the government to settle the Madhesi issue through dialogue and non-violent means.

British Ambassador John Rankin described the question of Indian blockade as a bilateral issue and asked the government to settle the issue mutually. “However, we are concerned about the shortage of daily essentials,” he said.