Indian blockade more inhuman than war: Nepal PM

Nepal's new Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Friday said that the blockade of key border points with India is 'more inhuman than a war' as he criticised New Delhi for raking up alleged rights abuse in Nepal at the UNHRC.

"Foodstuff and protection come into priority under the humanitarian aspect even during a war. Neighbouring country has further troubled our country by blocking checkpoints while it is still paralysed by the April 25 devastating earthquake.

"This is objectionable," Oli told a delegation of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ).

He said the current problem of blockade is the result of an "imported agenda carried by certain elements".

"Nepal is currently at the receiving end of unofficial blockade. But this is the time for us to find alternative," he was quoted as saying by local media.

Oli also expressed dissatisfaction over India for targeting Nepal at the United Nations Human Rights Council over alleged human rights violation cases.

"Neighbouring country is bullying us on one hand and raising issues of impunity on the other," Oli said.

"Our close neighbour has opened our eyes. I will render efforts to bail the country out of the existing crisis, maintaining our national independence, dignity and national integrity," he added.

Oli went on to say that the blockade and subsequent violence has revived nationalism among the Nepalese people.

He said that the government will resolve the problems by holding talks with the agitating groups in Terai.

"I am personally very sad and sensitive for the public bearing the brunt of crisis," Oli said.

On Wednesday, India called on Nepal at the UNHRC to consolidate Constitution building by accommodating "all sections" and emphasised that problems facing it cannot be resolved through force.

In its statement at the second Universal Periodic Review of Nepal, India also urged the Himalayan nation to investigate and take credible measures to prevent recurrence of "incidents of violence, extra-judicial killings and ethnic discrimination in the country".

The development came amid a political crisis over the new Constitution opposed by Indian-origin Madhesis who have led an agitation and blockaded key border trade points of Nepal with India, bringing supplies of essential goods including fuel and cooking gas for over a month.

Reeling under the pressure, Nepal has warmed up to China to open border trade points for the much-needed supplies ahead of the festive season.