India, July 27 -- A new seven-point political agreement between the CPN-UML and the Nepali Communist Party NCP at the federal level has triggered speculation over a possible reshuffle of the ruling coalition in Madhesh Province.

As the two parties move to strengthen their alliance nationally, political consultations and negotiations have intensified in Madhesh over the possibility of forming a new provincial government.

The agreement states that the two parties will jointly cooperate at the provincial government level. Under the deal, the UML will lead governments in Koshi, Bagmati and Lumbini, while the NCP will head governments in Karnali and Sudurpaschim. The leadership in Madhesh and Gandaki provinces will be decided in consultatio...