KATHMANDU: The fervent debate within the Nepali Congress (NC) regarding the prospect of endorsing “Hindu Rastra” is gaining momentum, with party President Sher Bahadur Deuba’s recent statement adding fuel to the fiery discussion.

Deuba’s assertion that ‘religious matters can be consulted’ has sparked heightened interest and speculation.

As the party gears up for its Mahasamiti meeting, the “Hindu Rastra” discourse has taken center stage.

Speaking at the Nawalpur district conference on Tuesday, Deuba categorically ruled out the return of monarchy in Nepal under any circumstances.

However, his nuanced expression on the issue of a Hindu nation suggests a topic open for discussion.

“The monarchy, ousted by the people through the constitution, will not stage a comeback under any circumstances,” he said.

“Activities opposing federalism and republicanism are unacceptable. While urging people to contemplate matters of religion, he mentioned seeking advice,” stated Deuba.

Party insiders said that the likelihood of “Hindu Rastra” becoming a party agenda in the Mahasamiti meeting remains slim as proposals in the Mahasamiti meeting must be approved by the party’s Central Committee.

He had previously hinted at his inclination to abolish secularism.

During the 12-point supporters’ meeting convened by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda recently, Deuba expressed a differing opinion on secularism.

“We have abandoned the monarchy, and there’s no turning back. Initially, we supported the idea of a Hindu state, but eventually embraced secularism,” said Deuba.

Min Bahadur Bishwakarma, Chief of the Nepali Congress Publicity Department, emphasized the party’s unwavering commitment to secularism.

“NC President Deuba’s Nawalparasi statement raised some concerns in favor of the Hindu nation, and discussions are ongoing,” he said.

He, however, said that Nepali Congress remains steadfast in its commitment to federalism, secularism, and republicanism.

“Our stance is resolute and won’t change based on individual statements,” Bishwakarma stated.

He clarified that the Mahasamiti meeting would not entertain proposals beyond the constitution’s preamble.

“No proposals challenging the constitution’s features and preamble will be presented in the NC Mahasamiti meeting. The party has no intention of revisiting provisions contrary to the constitution,” he affirmed.

He stated that leaders have the freedom to cast their votes in the Mahasamiti meeting.

It should be noted that some NC leaders, including Shankar Bhandari, an advocate for the “Hindu Rastra”, believe that President Deuba may have expressed support for this issue while considering the country’s distant future.

Even leaders, including Dr. Shanshak Koirala are intensifying pressure on the party leadership to align the Congress in favor of “Hindu Rastra”.

It may be noted that in the previous Mahasamiti meeting, almost half of the Nepali Congress Mahasamiti members submitted “Hindu Rastra” as the party’s agenda with their signatures.

Party insiders said that the likelihood of “Hindu Rastra” becoming a party agenda in the Mahasamiti meeting remains slim as proposals in the Mahasamiti meeting must be approved by the party’s Central Committee.

However, influential leaders within the Nepali Congress are not inclined to make the issue of religion the party’s agenda.