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Unified command to thwart rebellion: Minister Thapa

KATHMANDU, NOV 06 - Minister for Information and Communication Kamal Thapa today dismissed the allegations that the government was militarising the governance through a unified command.
Speaking at a programme organised in the capital to distribute Late Babu Chhiri Photo Journalism Award, Minister Thapa said the concept of the unified command was promulgated to enhance efficacy of the government forces in the anti-Maoist strives. He said that the proposed unified command against the Maoists would be guided through Civil Service Act and headed by the civilians.
"It is aimed at backing and protecting the police force, which has been mobilised against the Maoists but lagging behind in its duty due to the lack of necessary resources and proper training on counter insurgency," said Thapa, who is also the spokesperson of the government.
Thapa claimed that the government’s announcement to hold elections as soon as possible came after thorough study of the situation in the political and bureaucratic level."We can hold the elections within one year if the parties give us one-year period," said Thapa. "If we fail to create an atmosphere within the period, we don’t stick to power further."Terming the Maoists’ control over certain land of the country as baseless rumour, Thapa said, "A single inch of land is not captured by the Maoists.However, we have not been able to ensure presence of the government forces in every nook and corner of the country leaving enough spaces for the Maoists to move."
He said the civil-military campaign was aimed at ensuring presence of the security forces in every village.Posted on: 2003-11-05 08:58

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