Nepali leaders hail Modi's address to Constituent Assembly

Kathmandu: Nepalese leaders from across the political spectrum on Sunday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Constituent Assembly, with Maoist leader Prachanda saying the speech was “touching” and, he was visualising the dawn of a new chapter in bilateral ties. Prachanda, who has been a critic of India, said the way Modi spoke demonstrates that he thoroughly understands the “ups and downs” of Nepal’s peace process. “His speech was touching and very inspiring,” the United Communist Party of Nepal leader whose actual name is Pushpa Kamal Dahal said while commenting on Modi’s 45-minute address. “I feel a new chapter is going to open in India-Nepal relations,” said Prachanda who will be meeting Modi tomorrow. [caption id=“attachment_1647729” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives to meet with Nepali Prime Minister Sushil Koirala in Kathmandu. AFP image[/caption] The 60-year-old former Prime Minister had quit the post a few years back following a controversy over sacking of the Army Chief and has since been critical of India. After Modi’s address, Prachanda said he was “encouraged” and things can move forward after his meeting with the Indian leader tomorrow. Prachanda had earlier led a decade-long armed Maoist movement before coming overground after an agreement was reached in 2007. Manohar Bhattarai, Secretary-General of the Constituent Assembly, also said Modi’s speech touched the heart of all Nepalese. Modi began his hour-long address by speaking in Nepalese, which was received with a round of applause. Abdul Hameed Siddiqui, MP, said the speech was worth appreciation as it touched all hearts. Mahesh Vishwakarma of the Nepali Congress also hailed the speech, saying Modi’s focus on neighbourhood was a great gesture. PTI