Peace efforts in Nepal have run into rough weather after the government refused to dissolve the revived House of Representatives, something that the rebel Maoists have been clamouring for.

As a conciliatory gesture, however, the Government today decided to put off the ongoing session of the House for a few weeks, but categorically said that it was not going to dissolve the House.

Maoist leader K B Mahara, head of the Maoist team at the peace talks, threatened last week to go back to the jungle if Parliament was not dissolved.

‘‘This is an unpractical demand,’’ said a minister, who refused to be identified. ‘‘We cannot dissolve Parliament as it has been reinstated only after the people showed such a massive support. Moreover, the government needs to present the budget next month in the House.’’

The Maoists have been leery of the ruling alliance after most of their issues—including a secular Nepal and constituent assembly elections—were appropriated by the government.

Maoist chief Prachanda, in a TV interview, has also demanded immediate representation for the Maoists in the Cabinet—with the liberty to retain their militia.

Prime Minister G P Koirala told The Indian Express that adjourning Parliament should keep the Maoists mollified for the time being. ‘‘Such irritants should not damage the peace process,’’ he said. Koirala is expected to soon call Prachanda to discuss his recent India visit and assure him that nothing ‘‘against the Maoists’’ was discussed with Indian leaders.