New Delhi: Congratulating Nepal on successful conduct of free and fair elections, India on Tuesday said the early promulgation of a new Constitution reflecting the aspirations of the people there would contribute to peace and stability in the turmoil-hit country.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said India as a close friend and neighbour stands ready to support the Government and people of Nepal in their historic endeavours.
"The successful conduct of free and fair elections today in Nepal for the Constituent Assembly-cum-Parliament is an important step towards realising Nepal`s goal of a democratic and prosperous future."
"The people of Nepal, political parties, Government and security forces and the Election Commission of Nepal deserve to be congratulated for this achievement. The impressive turnout reflects the faith that the people of Nepal have reposed in the democratic process," the MEA said.
The government was happy to extend necessary logistical support for the smooth conduct of elections, in accordance with the request of the Government of Nepal, it noted.
"India believes that the early promulgation of a new Constitution reflecting the aspirations of the people of Nepal together with progress on the development agenda would contribute to peace, prosperity and stability in Nepal."
"As a close friend and neighbour, India stands ready to support the Government and people of Nepal in their historic endeavours," it added.
Nepal witnessed a record turnout of over 70 percent in landmark polls to choose an Assembly that will draft a new Constitution to end years of turmoil and political uncertainty though balloting was hit by sporadic violence, including vandalism and explosions that injured a dozen people.
Nepalese Chief Election Commissioner Neel Kantha Uprety said over 70 percent of 12.147 million voters participated in the Constituent Assembly polls - the highest turnout ever recorded in the country.
The turnout was also higher than the 61.7 percent votes cast in the last Constituent Assembly Election in 2008 despite a boycott called by an alliance of fringe parties led by the CPN-Maoist. In the capital, the turnout was 75 percent.
