The People's War in Nepal

In February 1996, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) lanched a People s War, basing their strategy on the writings and experience of Mao Tse- tung, but also drawing on more recent experiences in Asia and Latin America (notably that of the Shining Path movement in Peru). Although subject to aggressive police operations in the early years, the early years, the rebels were able to establish themselves in the mid-west of Nepal. The Government of Nepal called on a number of foreign governments for support and received substantial commitments (including military assistance) from the US and UK governments in particular, as well as from India. Particularly in the aftermath of 11 September 2001, the US and the UK Governments saw their involvement in Nepal as part of the war against terrorism. This book aims to provide readers with an introduction to the Peoples War in Nepal and brings together a unique collection of documents, including statements and analysis by the maoist leadership as well as critical essays by various political analysts and activists on the lefts in Nepal. It reveals the thinking behind the strategy of the Maoists. About the Author Dr. Arjun Karki is the President of a NGO, Rural Reconstruction Nepal (RRN). He has been active in the human rights movement and in efforts to promote debates on the current conflict. Dr. David Seddon is Professor of Development Studies and former Managing Director of the Overseas Development Group (ODG) at the University of East Anglia (UK).