Things are headed for confrontation if he doesn't respond to what people are demanding. Then we would get into a phase of bloodshed and more repression.

That will most certainly disrupt the November polls and will also weaken state institutions, which the Maoists want.

Morally and constitutionally, the king is getting weaker.

An end to the ceasefire would naturally mean resumption of violence. But there is still some hope that the Maoists will continue with their unilateral ceasefire for some time.

The king has only one choice -- accept the reality and postpone the municipal elections as it alone would create a minimum ground for a dialogue with political parties.

He has two choices. One, come to an understanding with political parties accepting the role of a constitutional monarch. Two, go totally repressive as a dictator and risk the monarchy's future in the long run.

They demonstrate their military strength to give a message that their willingness to be part of the (peace) process is not due to weakness.

This is the only factor that raises the hope that the Maoists would extend the ceasefire.