Indian envoy calls on Nepal's Deputy PM Kamal Thapa, talks trade blockade

India's envoy here today called on Nepal's new Deputy Prime Minister Kamal Thapa and discussed ways to ease supply of essential goods to the land-locked country amid strained ties over the blockade of border trade points due to protests by Madhesis over the new Constitution.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae called on Thapa, who is also Nepal's Finance Minister and the coordinator of a government-body formed to take initiative to reopen the blocked border check points with India, at his office here.

During the meeting, they discussed ways to ease supply of essential goods, including petroleum products, through the Nepal-India border check points.

The meeting comes at a time when the Nepalese government is under mounting public pressure over the dwindling supplies of goods ahead of Vijaya Dashami and Deepawali festivals.

Also, China yesterday reopened its border with Nepal in Tibet. The border was closed after the road along the route on both sides was damaged during the massive April 25 earthquake.

The supply of essential goods to Nepal have been squeezed following violent agitation in southern plains by Madhesi parties over the newly-promulgated Constitution. More than 40 people have died in clashes between police and the protesters.

The Madhesis -- Indian-origin inhabitants of the southern plains -- and Tharu ethnic groups are protesting for more representation in the Constitution. They also see the model to split Nepal into seven federal provinces as flawed and discriminatory to their rights.

Nepal has alleged that India has imposed an "economic blockade" on the country following the announcement of its Constitution. But India sees no merit in Nepal's complaints that it was being "choked" and deprived of essential supplies.

One of the main transit point at Birgunj bordering the Indian city of Raxaul has been blocked for over two weeks. Other check-points at Bhairahawa-Sunauli and Biratnagar- Jogani, however, have been partially opened.

The agitating Madhesi parties have said to continue their protests near the border check points during the festivals.