Articles by Srinivasan Ramani

After almost three years of political flux and pessimism, a measure of clarity finally seems to be emerging in Nepal. The newly formed Baburam Bhattarai-led Maoist-Madhesi coalition government enjoys immense public support and is expected to conclude the peace process, but the opposition led by the Nepali Congress could pose obstacles as it is wary about losing the "peace dividend" if this were to happen. How the Maoists in government manage to tackle differences with the opposition and from within will determine both the outcome of the peace process and the writing of the constitution in the new republic.

A visit to the coastal areas adjoining the Mundra port in the Kutch reveals discontent among fisherfolk, traders and pastoralists over the creation of a special economic zone in the area. Apart from environmental concerns, the traditional livelihoods of residents in the area have also been affected by the new industrial projects, leading to organised protests, as witnessed in Bhadreswar village a few months ago.

A visit to the Kathmandu valley, the political and cultural centre of Nepal after the constituent assembly elections brings the author in touch with leaders of the major political parties, public intellectuals, and the representatives of commerce and industry. This is the third and final part of the author's diary of his travels in Nepal during May.

What are the reasons for the Maoist victory in the constituent assembly elections in Nepal? What motivated the Nepali people to vote for such a decisive change? What are the hopes and aspirations of the Nepali people? What are the main structural features of this most underdeveloped country in the world? To find out, the author travelled through the hills and plains of Nepal over a fortnight in April-May after the CA elections. This is the first of a three-part diary of the visit.