Christian Solidarity Worldwide fears the Nepal’s ruling coalition is on course for collision with communists.

The group expressed its “deep concern” at the escalating political crisis threatening the new constitution.

The Maoist Students’ Union has announced an indefinite general strike, to begin on Sunday, while ex-army leader Rukmangad Katawal has said the Nepal Army “will not remain silent” if the new constitution is not promulgated on 28 May as planned.

Dr K B Rokaya, a National Human Rights Commissioner in Nepal, said: “The international community has to be serious about the deteriorating political situation and play an active role to ensure the timely drafting and promulgation of the new constitution, failing which the country may be plunged into another civil war”.

Mervyn Thomas, CSW Chief Executive Officer, said the growing tension was a source of concern to all observers in Nepal. He said it threatened the prospect of a peaceful and just future for the country.

He called on the international community to “intensify” efforts to bring leaders of all major political parties in Nepal around the same table.

He said: “They must recommit themselves to concluding the peace process according to the requirements of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), and to negotiating a new constitution in an atmosphere of cooperation.”