Taking exception to the reports of Indian restrictions on Nepal-bound cargo and freight, the government has decided to seek clarification from the Indian ambassador to Nepal.

The government will make a strong protest with Indian envoy Ranjit Rae over the obstruction on the Indian side and will urge resumption of normal operations at the border points, according to a government source. The Foreign Ministry will ask Rae to furnish clarification.

The government is expected to request Rae to ensure unhindered vehicular movement on the Indian side in view of the upcoming festivals. A three-party meeting on Thursday evening took a decision to this effect. Leaders of the major parties decided to seek reassurances from India that such incidents will not be repeated, said a leader who attended the meeting.

The meeting decided to use all the political and diplomatic means to resolve the row with India over the adoption of the new constitution, as well as the border restriction, said CPN-UML Vice Chairman Bhim Rawal.

Despite high-level Indian assurance that there would be no hindrance at the border, very few vehicles entered Nepal on Thursday, said UCPN (Maoist) Vice Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha.

Major parties to hold informal talks with agitating forces.

The meeting also decided to hold informal talks with the agitating Madhes-based parties and the Tharus. An informal talks team comprising members from the three parties will be deputed from Friday to clear the confusion over the constitutional contents. The parties said they will reopen diplomatic and political channels to hold interaction with the Indian leadership and officials.

“The meeting also decided to remain firm that any decision regarding Nepal will be taken by the sovereign Nepalis themselves,” said Rawal.