Kathmandu, March 20 -- Ten civil society organisations have concluded that the House of Representatives election held on March 5 was largely peaceful, orderly and relatively free and fair, despite some shortcomings.

At a joint press meet in Kathmandu on Friday, the groups said the vote was conducted in a fair environment despite a lower turnout, calling it a positive sign for democratic practice.

The organisations said minor issues were reported in some places, but no major disruptions occurred. They said the Election Commission and the government played an effective role in preparation, security and polling centre management.

The organisations included the NGO Federation Nepal, Nepal Voters' Rights Forum, Informal Sector Service Centr...