Trend of showing nationalism through anti-India stance is fading: RSP MP Pant

Rastriya Swatantra Party MP Buddhi Prasad (Hari) Pant has said the tendency to use opposition to India as a basis for nationalism is gradually disappearing.

He expressed this view while speaking as chief guest at a musical program organized by the Indian Consulate General in Birgunj to mark the 150th anniversary of the song 'Vande Mataram.'

According to Pant, who is also RSP's Parsa chairman, the relationship between Nepal and India is different and special in nature, not like an ordinary neighborly relationship.

He said the shared civilization, tradition, religious faith and family ties between the two countries have kept the relationship alive.

He noted that festivals such as Dashain, Deepawali, Chhath and Holi have brought the people of the two countries culturally closer.

He argued that since Nepal has always given high priority to its relationship with India, it cannot be used as any kind of 'card.'

MP Pant made clear that the Balen-led government does not rely on either a 'China card' or an 'India card.'