Political UCPN (Maoist) leader Baburam Bhattarai has said the border blockade imposed by India on Nepal owing to Madhes agitation was breaching upon Nepal's independence and sovereignty.

At an interaction organised with intellectuals on 'internal and foreign challenges of contemporary Nepali politics' on Sunday, former Prime Minister Bhattarai said the border blockade has violated the uninterrupted trade rights of the landlocked country and the bilateral agreement. He pointed out the need of common view among political parties and citizens on the issues of national interests and welfare.

The problems in Tarai/Madhes should be solved soon, he said, adding, "Nepal is the collective identity of Khas, Arya, indigenous nationalities, Tharu, and Madhesi. So, Nepalis' national unity and durable peace are ensured when the relations among these is strong with inclusive, proportional and participatory system."

According to him, issues of economic development and prosperity should be prioritised with the announcement of new constitution. Proper economic policy and environment for investment was essential, he stressed.

Leader Bhattarai garnered suggestions on multifarious issues of the country from the present intellectuals.