Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, who returned to the country after participating in the 16th SAARC Summit held in Bhutanese capital Thimpu on Friday, has hinted he won't resign at once, even as the main opposition Unified CPN (Maoist) continues to pile pressure on him to step down through its street protests.
Speaking during a press conference at Tribhuvan International Airport on his return from Thimpu, Nepal said he "does not think" his resignation would resolve the current problem. He, however, said he would not be an obstacle to finding a consensus and urged the Maoists to come to the negotiating table.
Nepal also warned of taking all measures against the Maoist protests if they turn violent. We have no choice than to face them and oppose their violent activities," he added.
PM Nepal, who had left for Thimpu leading the Nepali delegation on Tuesday, had addressed the SAARC Summit on Wednesday.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Army defuses bomb planted at campus chief residence
NEPALGUNJ: Army personnel defused a bomb planted in the house of Binod Agrawal, the campus chief of Babai Campus at Gulariya in Bardiya district on Friday.
Agrawal alleged that some members affiliated to All Nepal National Independent Students Union-Revolutionary (ANNISU-R), the student wing of Unified CPN (Maoist) planted the bomb at his home.
"They did so in a fit of rage after I snubbed their demand for donation," the campus chief said.
A bomb disposal squad of NA led by caption Rekha Khatri from Chhar Bahini Barrack from Nepalgunj disposed the bomb that was hanging in the gate of Agrawal's house since Friday night at 10 am today.
In another incident, police recovered some 30 small bombs kept hidden in sacks at Padanaha-5 in the district. Dilli Chaudhary, a local found the home-made bombs while he was ploughing in his field.
Bardiya CDO Beni Madhav Gywali said that a high alert has been sounded in the district ahead of the mass protest and indefinite strike announced by the UCPN-M.
Agrawal alleged that some members affiliated to All Nepal National Independent Students Union-Revolutionary (ANNISU-R), the student wing of Unified CPN (Maoist) planted the bomb at his home.
"They did so in a fit of rage after I snubbed their demand for donation," the campus chief said.
A bomb disposal squad of NA led by caption Rekha Khatri from Chhar Bahini Barrack from Nepalgunj disposed the bomb that was hanging in the gate of Agrawal's house since Friday night at 10 am today.
In another incident, police recovered some 30 small bombs kept hidden in sacks at Padanaha-5 in the district. Dilli Chaudhary, a local found the home-made bombs while he was ploughing in his field.
Bardiya CDO Beni Madhav Gywali said that a high alert has been sounded in the district ahead of the mass protest and indefinite strike announced by the UCPN-M.
Police seize more explosive devices; Maoists deny one found in Sundhara
Police seized a huge cache of explosives and other bomb making devices from a passenger mini-bus en route to Abu Khaireni from Beshisahar of Lamjung district on Friday.
A routine checkup at a security checkpoint by the police found 500 kgs of gelatin including 300 meter fuse wire and 72 pieces detonators hidden inside the van, reports said.
It was not immediately known who was traveling with such a huge amount of explosive devices or whether the police made any arrests.
The driver and the van is learnt to be currently under police custody.
Meanwhile, Maoist vice-chairman Narayan Kazi Shrestha has said that explosive devices recovered from a Sundhara guesthouse recently did not belong to the party and the persons involved in it were not his party cadres.
Speaking at a face-to-face programme organised here on Friday, Shrestha said his party's May 1 demonstrations to exert pressure on the government to step down will be peaceful and warned the government not to suppress it
A routine checkup at a security checkpoint by the police found 500 kgs of gelatin including 300 meter fuse wire and 72 pieces detonators hidden inside the van, reports said.
It was not immediately known who was traveling with such a huge amount of explosive devices or whether the police made any arrests.
The driver and the van is learnt to be currently under police custody.
Meanwhile, Maoist vice-chairman Narayan Kazi Shrestha has said that explosive devices recovered from a Sundhara guesthouse recently did not belong to the party and the persons involved in it were not his party cadres.
Speaking at a face-to-face programme organised here on Friday, Shrestha said his party's May 1 demonstrations to exert pressure on the government to step down will be peaceful and warned the government not to suppress it
Post-May 1 situation could endanger peace process: UNMIN
United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) has said post-May 1 situation is unpredictable and may seriously endanger the peace process in Nepal.
In a statement issued Friday, UNMIN chief Karin Landgren expressed her concern that despite peaceful intentions, "potential spoilers" of the peace process could provoke a clash.
"I appeal to all parties and groups to exercise maximum restrain and underline that unity amongst the parties has been driving force of the peace process and remains the best prospect for permanent peace in Nepal," Landgren said.
She further urged the parties to come to an agreement rapidly, before the situation escalates and said the parties must draw new ways to reach consensus in changed circumstances
In a statement issued Friday, UNMIN chief Karin Landgren expressed her concern that despite peaceful intentions, "potential spoilers" of the peace process could provoke a clash.
"I appeal to all parties and groups to exercise maximum restrain and underline that unity amongst the parties has been driving force of the peace process and remains the best prospect for permanent peace in Nepal," Landgren said.
She further urged the parties to come to an agreement rapidly, before the situation escalates and said the parties must draw new ways to reach consensus in changed circumstances
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Police raid Guest House in Sundhara
Police have raided Seti-Mahakali Guest House in Sundhara and recovered various materials including petrol, empty bottles, catapult and marbles, Thursday.
Metropolitan Police Range Kathmandu organised a press conference and displayed the seized materials, Thursday evening. Kathmandu Police chief Superintendent (SP) Ramesh Kharel claimed the materials were stored for use in May 1 or future protests.
Police said, they recovered 400 litres of petrol, 2 sacs of marbles, 10 sacs of empty bottles, saw dust and cotton clothes from room no. 103 of the guest house. The room was booked in the name of Krishna Ghimire, Kupandole yesterday.
Guest house owner Ajab Pande has been arrested for investigation.
Maoist leader Barshaman Pun denied party’s involvement in the bringing and storing such materials.
Talking to a TV channel, Pun said, we have no policy to bring and use such material in this agitation as we have pledged to make the agitation peaceful.
We will investigate if any of our cadres brought the materials against the party policy or the administration plotted against us to suppress the agitation by showing falsely we were preparing to make the agitation violent, he added.
Metropolitan Police Range Kathmandu organised a press conference and displayed the seized materials, Thursday evening. Kathmandu Police chief Superintendent (SP) Ramesh Kharel claimed the materials were stored for use in May 1 or future protests.
Police said, they recovered 400 litres of petrol, 2 sacs of marbles, 10 sacs of empty bottles, saw dust and cotton clothes from room no. 103 of the guest house. The room was booked in the name of Krishna Ghimire, Kupandole yesterday.
Guest house owner Ajab Pande has been arrested for investigation.
Maoist leader Barshaman Pun denied party’s involvement in the bringing and storing such materials.
Talking to a TV channel, Pun said, we have no policy to bring and use such material in this agitation as we have pledged to make the agitation peaceful.
We will investigate if any of our cadres brought the materials against the party policy or the administration plotted against us to suppress the agitation by showing falsely we were preparing to make the agitation violent, he added.
ANNISU-R calls off strike as private school operators agree to withdraw fee hike
The Maoist student wing, All Nepal National Independent Students Union- Revolutionary (ANNFISU-R) - has called off its ongoing strike in private schools after the school operators agreed to go back on their decision to hike student fees.
Talks between ANNISU-R leaders and representatives Private and Boarding Schools Organization Nepal (PABSON) and National-PABSON arrived at the agreement on Thursday. Talks were held in the presence of officials Ministry of Education.
ANNISU-R vice chairman Yuba Raj Chaulagain, who was also involved in the negotiations, informed that the union has agreed to end the strike and those private schools will open from Friday. As per the agreement, the Ministry of Education will constitute a taskforce to determine scientific fee structure and introduce it within the next 20 days.
The Maoist student wing had been padlocking all private and boarding schools across the country for the last few days, protesting the free hike.
Millions of students studying in private schools were forced to stay at home due to the strike.
Private schools had increased the fee up to 25 percent, citing growing inflation and rising operational costs including the increased salary of teachers.
Talks between ANNISU-R leaders and representatives Private and Boarding Schools Organization Nepal (PABSON) and National-PABSON arrived at the agreement on Thursday. Talks were held in the presence of officials Ministry of Education.
ANNISU-R vice chairman Yuba Raj Chaulagain, who was also involved in the negotiations, informed that the union has agreed to end the strike and those private schools will open from Friday. As per the agreement, the Ministry of Education will constitute a taskforce to determine scientific fee structure and introduce it within the next 20 days.
The Maoist student wing had been padlocking all private and boarding schools across the country for the last few days, protesting the free hike.
Millions of students studying in private schools were forced to stay at home due to the strike.
Private schools had increased the fee up to 25 percent, citing growing inflation and rising operational costs including the increased salary of teachers.
Govt will maintain law and order at any cost during Maoist protests: Defence Minister
Defence Minister Bidhya Devi Bhandari on Thursday warned that the army can be deployed if it becomes necessary to maintain law and order and safeguard people and public property during the nationwide protests by the Maoists.
Emerging from a meeting of ten political parties in the coalition government, Minister Bhandari said the government will safeguard "national integrity and sovereignty" at any cost.
Stating that the army can be deployed if the indefinite nationwide general strike announced by the Maoists from May 2 go out of control, she said that Maoists should stop dreaming about capturing state power through the street protests.Minister Bhandari also said that the government will not tolerate any acts of the Maoists that undermine national security and peace
Emerging from a meeting of ten political parties in the coalition government, Minister Bhandari said the government will safeguard "national integrity and sovereignty" at any cost.
Stating that the army can be deployed if the indefinite nationwide general strike announced by the Maoists from May 2 go out of control, she said that Maoists should stop dreaming about capturing state power through the street protests.Minister Bhandari also said that the government will not tolerate any acts of the Maoists that undermine national security and peace
Maoist cadres march in the capital
KATHMANDU: Cadres of the Unified CPN-Maoist on Thursday staged demonstrations in the capital in line with their demonstration here scheduled for May 1.
As a part of the party preparations to stage the demonstration in the capital, activists of Young Communist league (YCL), party cadres and volunteers marched in several places including Lainchaur, Durbar Marg, Putalisadak and Ratnapark this morning.
They also took out motorbike rallies in the areas before it converged into a corner meet at Ratnapark. Participants of the rallies chanted anti-government slogans. Traffic in Ratnapark, Putalisadak, Bagbazar and adjoining areas was affected due to the rallies.
UCPN-M declared to stage the demonstration in the capital on May 1 to press the government for the timely promulgation of the statute and institutionalisation of Loktantra.
A source said that at least 20,000 Maoist cadres have already arrived in the capital to participate the demonstration.
Meanwhile, EU diplomatic representatives, in their meeting with UCPN-M chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ this morning, urged him to roll back the latter’s decision to declared massive protest.
As a part of the party preparations to stage the demonstration in the capital, activists of Young Communist league (YCL), party cadres and volunteers marched in several places including Lainchaur, Durbar Marg, Putalisadak and Ratnapark this morning.
They also took out motorbike rallies in the areas before it converged into a corner meet at Ratnapark. Participants of the rallies chanted anti-government slogans. Traffic in Ratnapark, Putalisadak, Bagbazar and adjoining areas was affected due to the rallies.
UCPN-M declared to stage the demonstration in the capital on May 1 to press the government for the timely promulgation of the statute and institutionalisation of Loktantra.
A source said that at least 20,000 Maoist cadres have already arrived in the capital to participate the demonstration.
Meanwhile, EU diplomatic representatives, in their meeting with UCPN-M chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ this morning, urged him to roll back the latter’s decision to declared massive protest.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
UNMIN censures Maoist commander traveling on public transportation with explosives
UNMIN has condemned what it called "reckless" act of Maoist army platoon commander who was arrested in possession of a hand grenade while traveling on public transportation on Tuesday.
"UNMIN condemns this reckless risk to life and calls on the Unified CPN (Maoist) to cooperate fully in an investigation and take appropriate disciplinary actions," stated a press release issued by UNMIN on Wednesday.
UNMIN said that holding and carrying arms in violation of the law "is legally punishable and a breach of the Agreement on the Monitoring of the Management of Arms and Armies (AMMAA)" and called on the Maoists and all parties to adhere strictly to the peace agreements and refrain from any provocative statements or actions.
Santosh Rai 'Pratirodh', 24, a platoon commander of a satellite camp under the PLA second division in Sindhuli was arrested with 36 hand grenades and a Khukuri on Tuesday morning.
Police have claimed Rai was heading to Kathmandu to participate in the mass protests called by his party on May 1.
"UNMIN condemns this reckless risk to life and calls on the Unified CPN (Maoist) to cooperate fully in an investigation and take appropriate disciplinary actions," stated a press release issued by UNMIN on Wednesday.
UNMIN said that holding and carrying arms in violation of the law "is legally punishable and a breach of the Agreement on the Monitoring of the Management of Arms and Armies (AMMAA)" and called on the Maoists and all parties to adhere strictly to the peace agreements and refrain from any provocative statements or actions.
Santosh Rai 'Pratirodh', 24, a platoon commander of a satellite camp under the PLA second division in Sindhuli was arrested with 36 hand grenades and a Khukuri on Tuesday morning.
Police have claimed Rai was heading to Kathmandu to participate in the mass protests called by his party on May 1.
UNMIN chief meets Dr Bhattarai
KATHMANDU: Chief of the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) Karen Landgren met UCPN-Maoist vice chairman Dr Baburam Bhattarai at the latter’s residence in Shantinagar on Wednesday.
According to sources, Landgren inquired Bhattarai about the nature of the upcoming May 1 protest rally planned by the UCPN-Maoist. Saying that his party was fully abided by the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, Bhattarai assured UNMIN chief that the protest would be peaceful.
During the meeting, she also expressed her serious concern over the arrest of Santosh Rai, a platoon sub-commander of PLA Second Division. Police arrested Rai with arms from Bharatpur in Chitwan on Tuesday. Bhattrai replied that his party was completely unaware about the explosives carried by Rai as he was on home leave. The duo also discussed the extension of UNMIN tenure in Nepal, sources added.
According to sources, Landgren inquired Bhattarai about the nature of the upcoming May 1 protest rally planned by the UCPN-Maoist. Saying that his party was fully abided by the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, Bhattarai assured UNMIN chief that the protest would be peaceful.
During the meeting, she also expressed her serious concern over the arrest of Santosh Rai, a platoon sub-commander of PLA Second Division. Police arrested Rai with arms from Bharatpur in Chitwan on Tuesday. Bhattrai replied that his party was completely unaware about the explosives carried by Rai as he was on home leave. The duo also discussed the extension of UNMIN tenure in Nepal, sources added.
Thousands of Maoist cadres enter Kathmandu for May Day protests
The Unified CPN (Maoist) has brought tens of thousands of cadres to Kathmandu from various districts around the country to participate in the mass protests on May 1 and the indefinite general strike from the next day.
UCPN (Maoist) cadres have entered Kathmandu from all around the country. They have come from as far as Bardiya, a Terai district more than 600 km west of Kathmandu.
Police have claimed at least 40,000 cadres have entered the valley from different entry points like Thankot, Sanga, Sankhu and Dakshinkali till Tuesday.
There are plans to bring at least 20,000 cadres per day till May 1. Cadres from nearby districts like Dhading, Kavre, Gorkha, Tanahun are yet to come.
The Maoist cadres who entered the valley have taken shelter in various open areas, party palaces, temple areas, under construction housings, empty buildings and government and private school premises.
They have even asked many schools to make arrangements for their food. Maoist cadres have asked for donation from schools, banks, housing companies and small and medium businessmen.
Reports say, in districts like Chitwan and Nawalparasi, the Maoists have asked at least one person from each household to participate in the protests.
Cadres from rural areas have been brought to Kathmandu saying the next phase of agitation would be urban-centred.
Meanwhile, Maoist military wing chief Nanda Kishor Pun has directed all PLA members to remain in high alert. Issuing statement Tuesday, Pun asked all PLA members staying on home leave to return to their camps and those in the camps not to go for a home leave
UCPN (Maoist) cadres have entered Kathmandu from all around the country. They have come from as far as Bardiya, a Terai district more than 600 km west of Kathmandu.
Police have claimed at least 40,000 cadres have entered the valley from different entry points like Thankot, Sanga, Sankhu and Dakshinkali till Tuesday.
There are plans to bring at least 20,000 cadres per day till May 1. Cadres from nearby districts like Dhading, Kavre, Gorkha, Tanahun are yet to come.
The Maoist cadres who entered the valley have taken shelter in various open areas, party palaces, temple areas, under construction housings, empty buildings and government and private school premises.
They have even asked many schools to make arrangements for their food. Maoist cadres have asked for donation from schools, banks, housing companies and small and medium businessmen.
Reports say, in districts like Chitwan and Nawalparasi, the Maoists have asked at least one person from each household to participate in the protests.
Cadres from rural areas have been brought to Kathmandu saying the next phase of agitation would be urban-centred.
Meanwhile, Maoist military wing chief Nanda Kishor Pun has directed all PLA members to remain in high alert. Issuing statement Tuesday, Pun asked all PLA members staying on home leave to return to their camps and those in the camps not to go for a home leave
Sixteenth SAARC summit kicks off in Thimphu
The Sixteenth Summit of the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has begun in the Bhutanese capital of Thimphu on Wednesday afternoon.
Addressing the inaugural session, Bhutanese Prime Minister Jigmi Thinley said SAARC has many challenges ahead in implementing the agreements signed in the past. He further stressed on the need for combined efforts for countering terrorism.
He also highlighted his country’s national philosophy ‘Gross National Happiness’ and claimed it to be the best sought after at the time of instability, violence and disasters that are increasing day by day.
On the occasion, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksha handed over the SAARC chair to Thinley. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal is due to address the summit shortly.
The two day summit will adopt few declarations including one on climate change. This is the first time Bhutan is hosting SAARC summit
Addressing the inaugural session, Bhutanese Prime Minister Jigmi Thinley said SAARC has many challenges ahead in implementing the agreements signed in the past. He further stressed on the need for combined efforts for countering terrorism.
He also highlighted his country’s national philosophy ‘Gross National Happiness’ and claimed it to be the best sought after at the time of instability, violence and disasters that are increasing day by day.
On the occasion, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksha handed over the SAARC chair to Thinley. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal is due to address the summit shortly.
The two day summit will adopt few declarations including one on climate change. This is the first time Bhutan is hosting SAARC summit
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Army can be mobilised if Maoist demonstrations go out of control: Govt spokesperson
Minister for Information and Communication Shankar Pokharel, who is also the government's spokesperson, has said the Nepal Army will be mobilised if the Maoist protests starting May 1 go out of control.
"The government will leave no stone unturned to stop the Maoist demonstrations from going out of control," minister Pokharel said while speaking at a press conference organised by the pro-UML Press Chautari Nepal in Itahari on Tuesday, adding, "Army can be mobilised if Nepal Police and Armed Police Force fail to control violent demonstrations."
"However, I don't think such a situation will arise," he further said, informing that all the security agencies had been kept on high alert in view of the Maoist protests.
Pokharel, who is the secretary of the CPN (UML), argued that the protest of the Maoists is against constitution-building and the peace process, but informed the negotiation is going on to convince the Unified CPN (Maoist) to call off the protests
"The government will leave no stone unturned to stop the Maoist demonstrations from going out of control," minister Pokharel said while speaking at a press conference organised by the pro-UML Press Chautari Nepal in Itahari on Tuesday, adding, "Army can be mobilised if Nepal Police and Armed Police Force fail to control violent demonstrations."
"However, I don't think such a situation will arise," he further said, informing that all the security agencies had been kept on high alert in view of the Maoist protests.
Pokharel, who is the secretary of the CPN (UML), argued that the protest of the Maoists is against constitution-building and the peace process, but informed the negotiation is going on to convince the Unified CPN (Maoist) to call off the protests
NSU withdraws Valley bandh, torch rally
KATHMANDU: Nepal Students Union (NSU) which has been staging agitations in the capital demanding the unconditional release of its cadre Bishnu Poudel withdrew the scheduled programs of protests on Tuesday.
NSU withdrew the torch rally scheduled to stage in the capital this evening and it also withdrew the Kathmandu Valley banch scheduled to enforce on Wednesday after Poudel was arrested from the premises of Tri-Chandra Campus last Thursday was released as per the direction of Kathmandu CDO this afternoon.
Poudel who is vice chairman of Free Students Union at Tri-Chandra Campus was in police custody on the charge of his hand in beating up Samik Badal, ANNFSU primary committee chairman at the college two weeks ago.
NSU withdrew the torch rally scheduled to stage in the capital this evening and it also withdrew the Kathmandu Valley banch scheduled to enforce on Wednesday after Poudel was arrested from the premises of Tri-Chandra Campus last Thursday was released as per the direction of Kathmandu CDO this afternoon.
Poudel who is vice chairman of Free Students Union at Tri-Chandra Campus was in police custody on the charge of his hand in beating up Samik Badal, ANNFSU primary committee chairman at the college two weeks ago.
NSU activists clash with police over arrest of student leaders
College students clashed with police in busy thoroughfare of Chabahil in Kathmandu as the latter tried to intervene in their demonstration they organised in protest of the arrest of Free Students' Union (FSU) vice-chairman Bishnu Poudel including other student leaders of Tri-Chandra Campus a day before.
Reports coming in say that more than a dozen students affiliated with Nepal Students' Union (NSU) have been injured in the clash that ensued soon after the latter started to pelt stones at the baton charging police. Police have also arrested few students from the area.
Eyewitnesses said that police even entered the campus premises chasing the protestors and misbehaved and manhandled journalists who were there to cover the protest.
Three photo-journalists was injured after being hit by stones thrown by police, reports quoted eyewitnesses as saying. The injured journalists are being treated at Medicare Hospital.
Police fired a dozen rounds of tear gas canisters towards protesting cadres of Nepal Students Union in the course of dispersing them.
Reports coming in say that more than a dozen students affiliated with Nepal Students' Union (NSU) have been injured in the clash that ensued soon after the latter started to pelt stones at the baton charging police. Police have also arrested few students from the area.
Eyewitnesses said that police even entered the campus premises chasing the protestors and misbehaved and manhandled journalists who were there to cover the protest.
Three photo-journalists was injured after being hit by stones thrown by police, reports quoted eyewitnesses as saying. The injured journalists are being treated at Medicare Hospital.
Police fired a dozen rounds of tear gas canisters towards protesting cadres of Nepal Students Union in the course of dispersing them.
Private schools remain closed for third consecutive day
Over 8000 private schools across the country have remained closed for the third consecutive day Tuesday due to forced closure by the Unified CPN (Maoist) student wing All Nepal National Independent Students Union Revolutionary (ANNISU-R).
ANNISU-R called an indefinite shut down of private schools from Sunday protesting against the recent fee hikes and demanding the hiked fee revoked.
Over 1.5 million students studying in various schools across the country have been deprived of education at the very beginning of the academic session due to the closure.
Many parents have started sending their children off to various boarding schools in India due to the uncertainty of education system in Nepal.
Both the private school owners and the agitating ANNISU-R are adamant on their stances.
ANNISU-R chairman Lekhnath Nyaupane said, we will open the schools the minute the hiked fees are reduced, but not before the fees are reduced.
Although private school owners have said they are ready for talks with the agitating students union they are not ready to reduce the fees
ANNISU-R called an indefinite shut down of private schools from Sunday protesting against the recent fee hikes and demanding the hiked fee revoked.
Over 1.5 million students studying in various schools across the country have been deprived of education at the very beginning of the academic session due to the closure.
Many parents have started sending their children off to various boarding schools in India due to the uncertainty of education system in Nepal.
Both the private school owners and the agitating ANNISU-R are adamant on their stances.
ANNISU-R chairman Lekhnath Nyaupane said, we will open the schools the minute the hiked fees are reduced, but not before the fees are reduced.
Although private school owners have said they are ready for talks with the agitating students union they are not ready to reduce the fees
Monday, April 26, 2010
Pakistani PM arrives; meets PM Nepal
After his arrival in Kathmandu, Gilani met Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal at the latter's office in Singha Durbar Monday evening. Gilani and Nepal discussed issues of bilateral concern including investment feasibility in hydro-power and tourism sectors in Nepal and fighting terrorism.
Saying Pakistan, too, had fought for democracy again and again like Nepal, Gilani wished for successful completion of the peace process and constitution drafting in Nepal.
Gilani is making a brief stopover in Kathmandu before leaving for Thimpu, Bhutan on Tuesday to participate in the 16th SAARC Summit being held in the tiny Himalayan kingdom.
Meanwhile, Maldivian President Mohamed "Anni" Nasheed will be arriving in Kathmandu tonight en route to Thimpu to participate in the 16th SAARC summit.
PM Madhav Nepal will pay a courtesy call on Nasheed before he leaves for Thimpu tomorrow morning.
Saying Pakistan, too, had fought for democracy again and again like Nepal, Gilani wished for successful completion of the peace process and constitution drafting in Nepal.
Gilani is making a brief stopover in Kathmandu before leaving for Thimpu, Bhutan on Tuesday to participate in the 16th SAARC Summit being held in the tiny Himalayan kingdom.
Meanwhile, Maldivian President Mohamed "Anni" Nasheed will be arriving in Kathmandu tonight en route to Thimpu to participate in the 16th SAARC summit.
PM Madhav Nepal will pay a courtesy call on Nasheed before he leaves for Thimpu tomorrow morning.
PM to quit, should Maoists abide by past pacts
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal on Monday said he would no longer remain in power if the Maoists present themselves honestly and abide by the past agreements.
Receiving a memorandum submitted to him by thirteen youth wings of various political parties at his official residence at Baluwatar, PM Nepal said he is ready quit his office if the Maoists fully abide by the past agreements and be honest to the peace process and constitution-drafting task.
Saying that he is prepared to exercise utmost flexibility for peace, constitution and national consensus, the PM said he will never compromise with any force wishing to impose terrorism and totalitarianism on the people of Nepal.
He reiterated his commitment to peace, democracy, constitution and constitutional supremacy and said it is wrong to take to street making the prime ministerial post a personal issue as doing so would be against people’s aspirations.
During the occasion, a delegation of thirteen youth wings affiliated to various political parties handed over to the PM an eight-point memorandum.
The delegation demanded the early integration and rehabilitation of the PLA fighters, return of the properties seized during the insurgency and dismantling the paramilitary structure of the YCL, a youth wing of the UCPN-Maoist..
Receiving a memorandum submitted to him by thirteen youth wings of various political parties at his official residence at Baluwatar, PM Nepal said he is ready quit his office if the Maoists fully abide by the past agreements and be honest to the peace process and constitution-drafting task.
Saying that he is prepared to exercise utmost flexibility for peace, constitution and national consensus, the PM said he will never compromise with any force wishing to impose terrorism and totalitarianism on the people of Nepal.
He reiterated his commitment to peace, democracy, constitution and constitutional supremacy and said it is wrong to take to street making the prime ministerial post a personal issue as doing so would be against people’s aspirations.
During the occasion, a delegation of thirteen youth wings affiliated to various political parties handed over to the PM an eight-point memorandum.
The delegation demanded the early integration and rehabilitation of the PLA fighters, return of the properties seized during the insurgency and dismantling the paramilitary structure of the YCL, a youth wing of the UCPN-Maoist..
Nepal and Australia mark 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties
Australian Parliamentary Secretary for International Development Assistance, Bob McMullan, in Nepal to attend the functions marking the 50 anniversary of the bilateral ties.
"Over the last five decades, the relationship between Australia and Nepal has grown considerably, to the benefit of both countries," a press statement issued by Australian embassy in Kathmandu quoted McMullan as saying.
In 1984 Australia established a diplomatic mission in Nepal, then in 2007 Nepal cemented bilateral ties with the establishment of a diplomatic mission in Australia.
During a series of discussions with political leaders, Constituent Assembly members, and United Nations officials, McMullan underlined Australia's support to Nepal's peace process and for its progress towards the Millennium Development Goals, the embassy said.
"Over the last five decades, the relationship between Australia and Nepal has grown considerably, to the benefit of both countries," a press statement issued by Australian embassy in Kathmandu quoted McMullan as saying.
In 1984 Australia established a diplomatic mission in Nepal, then in 2007 Nepal cemented bilateral ties with the establishment of a diplomatic mission in Australia.
During a series of discussions with political leaders, Constituent Assembly members, and United Nations officials, McMullan underlined Australia's support to Nepal's peace process and for its progress towards the Millennium Development Goals, the embassy said.
Maoists call indefinite bandh from May 2
KATHMANDU: The main opposition party Unified CPN-Maoist on Monday announced an indefinite nationwide bandh effective from May 2.
Speaking at an interaction programme with senior journalists, editors and columnists at Yak and Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu, Unified CPN-Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ said that the protests would be largely peaceful and non-violent.
“We have called an indefinite bandh from May 2 to ensure peace and promulgation of the constitution and form a national unity government,” Prachanda said.
However, he informed that the dialogue with government will continue side by side during the agitation.
According to him, the strike would largely centre in Katmandu valley as well as the district headquarters throughout the nation.
He also said the strike would prolong if the protests on May 1 could not be fruitful to form the consensus government. He urged the general public to support the strike.
During the interaction, he accused the government for undermining their mass protest scheduled for May 1.
The main opposition party UCPN-M has announced to organise a massive demonstrations in the capital on May 1 on the occasion of international Labor Day to pressurise the government for the timely promulgation of the statute.
Maoist top brass responded the queries raised by the senior journalists and editor during the interaction.
Editors of broad-sheet dailies, television channels, news magazines and weeklies were present in the interaction.
Speaking at an interaction programme with senior journalists, editors and columnists at Yak and Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu, Unified CPN-Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ said that the protests would be largely peaceful and non-violent.
“We have called an indefinite bandh from May 2 to ensure peace and promulgation of the constitution and form a national unity government,” Prachanda said.
However, he informed that the dialogue with government will continue side by side during the agitation.
According to him, the strike would largely centre in Katmandu valley as well as the district headquarters throughout the nation.
He also said the strike would prolong if the protests on May 1 could not be fruitful to form the consensus government. He urged the general public to support the strike.
During the interaction, he accused the government for undermining their mass protest scheduled for May 1.
The main opposition party UCPN-M has announced to organise a massive demonstrations in the capital on May 1 on the occasion of international Labor Day to pressurise the government for the timely promulgation of the statute.
Maoist top brass responded the queries raised by the senior journalists and editor during the interaction.
Editors of broad-sheet dailies, television channels, news magazines and weeklies were present in the interaction.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Bus knocks down elderly in Kalanki; transportation obstructed
A passenger bus numbered Na 2 Kha 342 coming from Mahendra Nagar to Kathmandu has knocked down an elderly in Kalanki, Sunday evening.
Bel Bahadur Thapa, 72, died on the spot after he was hit by the bus.
Transportation in the area has been obstructed due to the accident
Bel Bahadur Thapa, 72, died on the spot after he was hit by the bus.
Transportation in the area has been obstructed due to the accident
Education Minister urges ANNISU-R to call off strike
BHAIRAHAWA: Minister for Education Sarvendra Nath Shukla on Sunday urged the All Nepal National Independent Students Union-Revolutionary (ANNISU-R) to call off its indefinite private school bandh.
Minister Shukla, speaking in a press conference at his hometown Butwal, said, “As it is illegal to call bandh in the education sector, ANNISU-R should withdraw it immediately.”
All private schools throughout the nation remained closed due to bandh enforced by the Unified CPN-Maoist affiliated student wing today.
The agitating union on the charge of defying the school closure vandalised several schools in different places including Pokhara, Dang, Dhangadhi, Biratnagar, Chitwan and Kathmandu.
The bandh was enforced from Sunday demanding slash in fee hike in private schools across the nation.
Minister Shukla, speaking in a press conference at his hometown Butwal, said, “As it is illegal to call bandh in the education sector, ANNISU-R should withdraw it immediately.”
All private schools throughout the nation remained closed due to bandh enforced by the Unified CPN-Maoist affiliated student wing today.
The agitating union on the charge of defying the school closure vandalised several schools in different places including Pokhara, Dang, Dhangadhi, Biratnagar, Chitwan and Kathmandu.
The bandh was enforced from Sunday demanding slash in fee hike in private schools across the nation.
US official Blake arrives in Kathmandu
KATHMANDU: US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert O Blake, Jr. arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday for a two-day visit.
Blake will call on political leaders, government officials, business leaders to discuss the ongoing peace process, statute-drafting and the issues related to human trafficking and economic development during his visit, a press statement issued by the Public Affairs Office of the US Embassy, Kathmandu said.
After completion of his visit to Nepal, Blake will leave for Bhutan to lead the US-observer delegation at the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit in Thimphu from April 28 to 29.
He will also hold meetings with regional leaders on the margins of the Summit. Likewise, Blake will lead a US-government delegation to the US-China Sub-Dialogue on South Asia in Beijing from May 3 to 4, states the release.
Blake will call on political leaders, government officials, business leaders to discuss the ongoing peace process, statute-drafting and the issues related to human trafficking and economic development during his visit, a press statement issued by the Public Affairs Office of the US Embassy, Kathmandu said.
After completion of his visit to Nepal, Blake will leave for Bhutan to lead the US-observer delegation at the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit in Thimphu from April 28 to 29.
He will also hold meetings with regional leaders on the margins of the Summit. Likewise, Blake will lead a US-government delegation to the US-China Sub-Dialogue on South Asia in Beijing from May 3 to 4, states the release.
Maoist student wing closes private schools across the country
Institutional schools across the country have remained closed Sunday at the call of Unified CPN (Maoist)’s student wing All Nepal National Independent Students Revolutionary (ANNISU-R).
ANNISU-R called the closure of schools demanding the withdrawal of fee-hikes implemented by the private schools from this academic session. They had shut the accounts section of the private schools since last week. Millions of students studying in about 8000 institutional schools across the country have been affected due to the forced closure of the schools.
School owners have decided to close the schools as per the call of ANNISU-R for the safety of the students and the school.
ANNISU-R had been attacking on school buses and physical assets of some private schools in the past few days.
The umbrella organisations of the institutional schools, PABSON and N-PABSON directed the schools affiliated to them not to open the schools and run school buses on Sunday`
ANNISU-R called the closure of schools demanding the withdrawal of fee-hikes implemented by the private schools from this academic session. They had shut the accounts section of the private schools since last week. Millions of students studying in about 8000 institutional schools across the country have been affected due to the forced closure of the schools.
School owners have decided to close the schools as per the call of ANNISU-R for the safety of the students and the school.
ANNISU-R had been attacking on school buses and physical assets of some private schools in the past few days.
The umbrella organisations of the institutional schools, PABSON and N-PABSON directed the schools affiliated to them not to open the schools and run school buses on Sunday`
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Maoists accuse govt of creating confusion among people about May 1 protests
The Unified CPN (Maoist) has accused the government of trying to create a confusion among the people by misinterpreting the party’s mass protests on May 1.
A meeting of the Maoist central officials at Naya Bazar Saturday morning concluded, the government has deliberately misinterpreted the programme with an aim to suppress the peaceful agitation.
According to Maoist leader Janardan Sharma, who was present at the meeting today, the party has decided to organise the mass protests with a slogan ‘national consensus government for peace and new constitution’ and ensure the protests become peaceful. Sharma said, we will not provoke any violence during the mass protest, but can’t take responsibility if the government instigates the people.
Maoist leaders have been saying in various public functions, the party will continue the protests in the form of general strike post May 1 if its peaceful assemblies are suppressed.
A meeting of the Maoist central officials at Naya Bazar Saturday morning concluded, the government has deliberately misinterpreted the programme with an aim to suppress the peaceful agitation.
According to Maoist leader Janardan Sharma, who was present at the meeting today, the party has decided to organise the mass protests with a slogan ‘national consensus government for peace and new constitution’ and ensure the protests become peaceful. Sharma said, we will not provoke any violence during the mass protest, but can’t take responsibility if the government instigates the people.
Maoist leaders have been saying in various public functions, the party will continue the protests in the form of general strike post May 1 if its peaceful assemblies are suppressed.
Maoist students vandalise 7 school buses
The Unified CPN (Maoist) affiliated All Nepal National Independent Students Union-Revolutionary (ANNISU-R) has vandalised and torched seven school buses belonging to three private schools in Kathmandu, Friday.
ANNISU-R cadres torched and vandalised a bus belonging to Cambridge International Boarding School in Kalanki, three buses belonging to Occidental School in Anamnagar and three buses belonging to Daffodil School in Kapan.
ANNISU-R, agitating against the recent fee-hike by private schools, said they vandalised the buses as the schools charged exorbitant fees to the students.
We will continue action against such schools, said, ANNISU-R chairman Lekhnath Nyaupane.
School owners have condemned the attacks on physical assets of the schools.
Meanwhile, ANNISU-R has continued padlocking the accounts section of private schools since past one week protesting against the fee-hike. It has also threatened to close all private schools from Sunday, if their demands are not met.
ANNISU-R cadres torched and vandalised a bus belonging to Cambridge International Boarding School in Kalanki, three buses belonging to Occidental School in Anamnagar and three buses belonging to Daffodil School in Kapan.
ANNISU-R, agitating against the recent fee-hike by private schools, said they vandalised the buses as the schools charged exorbitant fees to the students.
We will continue action against such schools, said, ANNISU-R chairman Lekhnath Nyaupane.
School owners have condemned the attacks on physical assets of the schools.
Meanwhile, ANNISU-R has continued padlocking the accounts section of private schools since past one week protesting against the fee-hike. It has also threatened to close all private schools from Sunday, if their demands are not met.
Maoists dragging nation to violence: Oli
KATHMANDU: CPN-UML standing committee member KP Sharma Oli on Saturday blamed the Unified CPN-Maoist of dragging the nation into violence.
Speaking at a Race Competition organised to mark Loktantra Day in the capital, Oli said, "The recent activities launched by the UCPN-M in the name of so-called final struggle will drag the nation to violence."
"To whom the Maoists are targeting their final war at a time when representatives of people are ruling the nation," the former deputy PM said.
Saying that the upcoming Maoist demonstration is against the people, Oli urged the Maoists to find an outlet under the constitutional parameters.
Speaking at a Race Competition organised to mark Loktantra Day in the capital, Oli said, "The recent activities launched by the UCPN-M in the name of so-called final struggle will drag the nation to violence."
"To whom the Maoists are targeting their final war at a time when representatives of people are ruling the nation," the former deputy PM said.
Saying that the upcoming Maoist demonstration is against the people, Oli urged the Maoists to find an outlet under the constitutional parameters.
Nation marks 'Loktantra Diwas'
Nepal Saturday marked the fourth anniversary of the day when democracy was reinstated in the country, ending the direct rule of former King Gyanendra Shah following the 19-day people's movement steered by the erstwhile seven-party alliance and backed by then underground CPN (Maoist).
To mark the end of the dictatorial rule and the reinstatement of democracy, Loktantra Diwas was observed with several functions across the country. A special function was being organised at the army pavilion, Tundikhel, Kathmandu, which was attended by President Ram Baran Yadav, Vice President Parmananda Jha, Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, Constituent Assembly (CA) chairman Subash Chandra Nemwang, political leaders, top bureaucrats, and diplomats, among others.
The special function began with a helicopter displaying a banner emblazoned with 'Loktantra Diwas' and showering flowers. Various TV channels aired the function live.
To mark the end of the dictatorial rule and the reinstatement of democracy, Loktantra Diwas was observed with several functions across the country. A special function was being organised at the army pavilion, Tundikhel, Kathmandu, which was attended by President Ram Baran Yadav, Vice President Parmananda Jha, Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, Constituent Assembly (CA) chairman Subash Chandra Nemwang, political leaders, top bureaucrats, and diplomats, among others.
The special function began with a helicopter displaying a banner emblazoned with 'Loktantra Diwas' and showering flowers. Various TV channels aired the function live.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Govt asks Maoists to call off demonstration
The government on Friday formally asked the Unified CPN (Maoist) to withdraw their plan for holding a nationwide protest programme. A meeting of the council of ministers held today made this request to the main opposition party as it prepares for a massive nationwide show of force starting May 1.
Informing about the decision of the meeting, Minister for Information and Communication and government spokesperson Shanker Pokharel said that the Maoists will have to take the responsibility of the consequences if it continues to engage in violent activities against the peace agreement.
He requested the Maoists to stop providing military training to its cadres and call off their nationwide demonstration starting May 1 in which the former rebel party plans to bring hundreds of thousands of people into the streets to press for a creation of a national unity government under its leadership.
Keeping in view the upcoming Maoist demonstration, the government had on Thursday instructed three security agencies - Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and National Investigation Department - to work for integrated policies and strategies to restore peace and stability in the country
Informing about the decision of the meeting, Minister for Information and Communication and government spokesperson Shanker Pokharel said that the Maoists will have to take the responsibility of the consequences if it continues to engage in violent activities against the peace agreement.
He requested the Maoists to stop providing military training to its cadres and call off their nationwide demonstration starting May 1 in which the former rebel party plans to bring hundreds of thousands of people into the streets to press for a creation of a national unity government under its leadership.
Keeping in view the upcoming Maoist demonstration, the government had on Thursday instructed three security agencies - Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and National Investigation Department - to work for integrated policies and strategies to restore peace and stability in the country
NOC hikes prices of petro-products; transport fare also hiked
Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has increased the prices of petroleum products for the second time in less than one-and-half months citing increased cost price.
A board meeting of NOC Thursday evening decided to increase the price of petrol, diesel and kerosene each by almost Rs 2 per litre.
After the hike, the cost of petrol will be Rs 82 per litre and that of diesel and Kerosene each will be Rs 63 per litre in Kathmandu. The prices will be slightly different in other parts of the country depending on the transportation cost.
NOC had last increased the prices of petroleum products on March 15.
After the latest price hike, the price of transportation fares has also been hiked by 10 percent. The transportation fare, too, was increased by 10 percent less than a month ago.
NOC executive director Digambar Jha said, the prices were hiked as per the revised rate-list sent by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC).
A board meeting of NOC Thursday evening decided to increase the price of petrol, diesel and kerosene each by almost Rs 2 per litre.
After the hike, the cost of petrol will be Rs 82 per litre and that of diesel and Kerosene each will be Rs 63 per litre in Kathmandu. The prices will be slightly different in other parts of the country depending on the transportation cost.
NOC had last increased the prices of petroleum products on March 15.
After the latest price hike, the price of transportation fares has also been hiked by 10 percent. The transportation fare, too, was increased by 10 percent less than a month ago.
NOC executive director Digambar Jha said, the prices were hiked as per the revised rate-list sent by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC).
Deuba talks tough to counter Maoist threat
KATHMANDU: Senior Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba said on Friday that that the UCPN-Maoist would face bad days once their agitation really begins.
Speaking at an interaction programme organised by the Nepal Tarun Dal (NTD), youth wing of the NC, Deuba said that the Maoists who had fought for the Constituent Assembly is ironically opposing the main task of the CA.
“The Maoists are trying to establish authoritarianism through anarchic behaviour, but it is this very behaviour which will hamper them from becoming a largest party in the CA,” said former PM Deuba adding, “The Maoists do not want to accomplish the peace and new constitution drafting processes.”
Speaking at an interaction programme organised by the Nepal Tarun Dal (NTD), youth wing of the NC, Deuba said that the Maoists who had fought for the Constituent Assembly is ironically opposing the main task of the CA.
“The Maoists are trying to establish authoritarianism through anarchic behaviour, but it is this very behaviour which will hamper them from becoming a largest party in the CA,” said former PM Deuba adding, “The Maoists do not want to accomplish the peace and new constitution drafting processes.”
CC recommends names for vacant posts in constitutional bodies
The meeting of Constitutional Council (CC) has recommended the names for vacant posts in the constitutional bodies on Friday.
The meeting held at Singha Durbar, the seat of the government, recommended Nil Kantha Uprety as chief of Election Commission (EC).
Similarly, Bhanu Prasad Acharya has been recommended for the post of Auditor General, Baburam Acharya as the chief of Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) and Udaya Nepali as the chief of Public Service Commission (PSC).
Likewise, Dron Raj Regmi, Bishweshwor Man Shrestha and Him Bahadur Gurung have been recommended as the CIAA commissioners.The failure in appointing chiefs and commissioners of various constitutional bodies due to wrangling between major political parties for plum posts for their own candidates have direly affected government service delivery.
As per the provision in the interim constitution, the names will be forwarded to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee for the final approval
The meeting held at Singha Durbar, the seat of the government, recommended Nil Kantha Uprety as chief of Election Commission (EC).
Similarly, Bhanu Prasad Acharya has been recommended for the post of Auditor General, Baburam Acharya as the chief of Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) and Udaya Nepali as the chief of Public Service Commission (PSC).
Likewise, Dron Raj Regmi, Bishweshwor Man Shrestha and Him Bahadur Gurung have been recommended as the CIAA commissioners.The failure in appointing chiefs and commissioners of various constitutional bodies due to wrangling between major political parties for plum posts for their own candidates have direly affected government service delivery.
As per the provision in the interim constitution, the names will be forwarded to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee for the final approval
Thursday, April 22, 2010
PABSON defends fee hike; wants govt to scrap education tax
The Private and Boarding Schools Organisation of Nepal (PABSON) has defended the recent hike in student fee, making it clear that there will be no scrapping of the new fee structure that has already come into effect.Speaking at a press conference in the capital Wednesday, PABSON chairman Rajesh Khadka said that private schools were compelled to increase the fees in view of rising inflation and the hike in the salary of government employees.
The PABSON chief also complained about the one percent education tax levied by the government on private education. He said most of the private schools are on the verge of total bankruptcy.
Mentioning that the government had agreed to revoke the tax within this fiscal year, Khadka said the PABSON would launch agitations if the government didn't fulfill the understanding.
Meanwhile, the PABSON has demanded that the Maoist-aligned All Nepal National Independent Students Union-Revolutionary (ANNISU-R) immediately open the schools locked by it in protest against the fee hike.
The Maoist student wing has padlocked a number of private boarding schools around the country, demanding immediate withdrawal of the 'unjustifiable' fee hike.
The private schools have already started charging up to 25 percent added fee from the new academic session.
The PABSON chief also complained about the one percent education tax levied by the government on private education. He said most of the private schools are on the verge of total bankruptcy.
Mentioning that the government had agreed to revoke the tax within this fiscal year, Khadka said the PABSON would launch agitations if the government didn't fulfill the understanding.
Meanwhile, the PABSON has demanded that the Maoist-aligned All Nepal National Independent Students Union-Revolutionary (ANNISU-R) immediately open the schools locked by it in protest against the fee hike.
The Maoist student wing has padlocked a number of private boarding schools around the country, demanding immediate withdrawal of the 'unjustifiable' fee hike.
The private schools have already started charging up to 25 percent added fee from the new academic session.
Khotang campus clash leaves 2 students badly hurt
KHOTANG: At least two students were injured when students of ANNISU-R and ANNFSU clashed in Diktel Multiple Campus in Khotang district on Thursday.
ANNISU-R campus unit secretaries Rajesh Acharya and Amar Shrestha sustained critical injuries after ANNFSU activists attacked the duo.
The condition of Acharya is critical, said UCPN-M district secretary Prakash Chaulagain.
The police detained Mahesh Rai, an activist of ANNFSU on the charge of his involvement in the attack.
The clash ensued after students of ANNFSU staged a protest saying that ANNISU-R breached an agreement reached among the student bodies regarding a farewell programme to be organised to bid farewell to certificate level second year students and students of Bachelor's level third year in the near future.
Meanwhile, ANNFSU activists demanding the immediate release of Rai demonstrated in Diktel bazaar and staged a sit-in protest in front of the District Police Office and District Administration Office. The organisation has threatened to launch protest programmes if Rai is not released at the earliest.
Acting CDO, Sunil Niraula said, "Though representatives of UCPN-M, UML and police held an informal discussion to discuss the issue, it ended inconclusively."
ANNISU-R campus unit secretaries Rajesh Acharya and Amar Shrestha sustained critical injuries after ANNFSU activists attacked the duo.
The condition of Acharya is critical, said UCPN-M district secretary Prakash Chaulagain.
The police detained Mahesh Rai, an activist of ANNFSU on the charge of his involvement in the attack.
The clash ensued after students of ANNFSU staged a protest saying that ANNISU-R breached an agreement reached among the student bodies regarding a farewell programme to be organised to bid farewell to certificate level second year students and students of Bachelor's level third year in the near future.
Meanwhile, ANNFSU activists demanding the immediate release of Rai demonstrated in Diktel bazaar and staged a sit-in protest in front of the District Police Office and District Administration Office. The organisation has threatened to launch protest programmes if Rai is not released at the earliest.
Acting CDO, Sunil Niraula said, "Though representatives of UCPN-M, UML and police held an informal discussion to discuss the issue, it ended inconclusively."
Kingfisher to fly to Nepal from this week
Kingfisher, a leading private sector airlines based in India, has announced that it is starting its flights between London and Kathmandu beginning this week.
Addressing a programme organised at Ealing Town hall, London, on Tuesday, Rick Sagar, general manager, UK and Europe of the Kingfisher airlines, said Kingfisher was India's only five star airline rated by Skytrax. He said Kingfisher was launching its services to Nepal from Saturday (24th of April) and expressed hope that expatriate Nepalis community as well as international travellers will enjoy their flight experience. Saying that a brand new A 330 airbus will operate on the route, Mr Sagar said flying Kingfisher would be a life-time experience. "We fly guests, not passengers," he added
Addressing a programme organised at Ealing Town hall, London, on Tuesday, Rick Sagar, general manager, UK and Europe of the Kingfisher airlines, said Kingfisher was India's only five star airline rated by Skytrax. He said Kingfisher was launching its services to Nepal from Saturday (24th of April) and expressed hope that expatriate Nepalis community as well as international travellers will enjoy their flight experience. Saying that a brand new A 330 airbus will operate on the route, Mr Sagar said flying Kingfisher would be a life-time experience. "We fly guests, not passengers," he added
Thousands will take to streets if constitution not drafted on time, Bhattarai warns
Unified CPN (Maoist) Vice-Chairman Dr Baburam Bhattarai has warned that his party will bring hundreds of thousands of people in the streets to establish the "people's federal democratic republic" in the country if the constitution is not drafted as per the people's aspiration within May 28 deadline.
Speaking at a programme organized on the occasion of Lenin Day in the capital on Thursday, he, however, claimed that the constitution as per the aspiration of the people is not possible in the current circumstances.
Dr. Bhattarai, who is also considered the Maoists ideologue, said that the party has demanded the dissolution of the current government to pave way for a national unity government under the leadership of his party after concluding that the current government cannot give the country a new constitution on time and take the peace process to a logical conclusion.
Speaking at a programme organized on the occasion of Lenin Day in the capital on Thursday, he, however, claimed that the constitution as per the aspiration of the people is not possible in the current circumstances.
Dr. Bhattarai, who is also considered the Maoists ideologue, said that the party has demanded the dissolution of the current government to pave way for a national unity government under the leadership of his party after concluding that the current government cannot give the country a new constitution on time and take the peace process to a logical conclusion.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
SSB arrests three YCL cadres
Seema Surakshya Bal (SSB), a border security force of India, has detained three cadres of the Unified CPN (Maoist) youth wing Young Communist Cadres (YCL) from Mainathpur Duhabi of Dhanusha, Wednesday.
Devendra Yadav, Bechan Das and Joginder Sahani were arrested when they had gone to a village for a door-to-door programme as part of the Maoists’ agitation for national sovereignty.
YCL Nepal has condemned the arrests by issuing a press statement Wednesday. They have demanded for immediate release of their fellow cadres and threatened to launch a fierce agitation if the arrested cadres are not released
Devendra Yadav, Bechan Das and Joginder Sahani were arrested when they had gone to a village for a door-to-door programme as part of the Maoists’ agitation for national sovereignty.
YCL Nepal has condemned the arrests by issuing a press statement Wednesday. They have demanded for immediate release of their fellow cadres and threatened to launch a fierce agitation if the arrested cadres are not released
World Bank pledges Rs 9.17 billion for Nepal's health sector
The World Bank has approved a US$ 129.2 million (approximately 9 billion and 163.02 million rupees) aid for providing access to poor Nepalis to essential heath services.
The Second Heath, Nutrition and Population (HNP) and HIV/AIDS Project approved today will support the Nepal Health Sector Program II, the Government of Nepal's five year program (2010-2015), a statement issued by the Bank said. The project will build on the World Bank's on-going support to Nepal's health sector since 2004.
The project will support the expansion and strengthening of these services with a focus on better reaching the poor and excluded segments of the society.
Three development partners, the World Bank, the Department for International Development of the UK (DFID) and the Australian aid agency, AusAID, have agreed to pool finances to meet a slice of Nepal's health sector expenditures, according to the World Bank. Other funding partners will provide technical and financial assistance directly
The Second Heath, Nutrition and Population (HNP) and HIV/AIDS Project approved today will support the Nepal Health Sector Program II, the Government of Nepal's five year program (2010-2015), a statement issued by the Bank said. The project will build on the World Bank's on-going support to Nepal's health sector since 2004.
The project will support the expansion and strengthening of these services with a focus on better reaching the poor and excluded segments of the society.
Three development partners, the World Bank, the Department for International Development of the UK (DFID) and the Australian aid agency, AusAID, have agreed to pool finances to meet a slice of Nepal's health sector expenditures, according to the World Bank. Other funding partners will provide technical and financial assistance directly
Four policemen injured in explosion
Four police personnel have been injured when a bomb exploded inside the district police office (DPO) in the western district of Dang Wednesday.
The bomb exploded when the policemen were cleaning the DPO room where arms and ammunition were stored.The injured police personnel have been rushed to Rapti Sub-Zonal hospital for treatment.
The bomb exploded when the policemen were cleaning the DPO room where arms and ammunition were stored.The injured police personnel have been rushed to Rapti Sub-Zonal hospital for treatment.
SC seeks clarification on NA recruitment
KATHMANDU: The apex court asked the government for clarification on the stay order in the case of the Nepal Army recruitment for 271 technical staff on April 28.
After the preliminary hearing on the case, a single bench of Justice Tapa Bahadur Magar asked for reasons why the recruitment is necessary for the NA from the Cabinet, Ministry of Defence, Nepal Army headquarters and the Recruitment Committee of the NA for the hearing by Apirl 28.
Advocates from the International Institute for Human Rights and Environment and Development (INHURED-International) filed a PIL seeking immediate intervention to scrap the NA’s fresh recruitment drive reasoning that the recruitment is against the existing constitution and Comprehensive Peace Agreement.
After the preliminary hearing on the case, a single bench of Justice Tapa Bahadur Magar asked for reasons why the recruitment is necessary for the NA from the Cabinet, Ministry of Defence, Nepal Army headquarters and the Recruitment Committee of the NA for the hearing by Apirl 28.
Advocates from the International Institute for Human Rights and Environment and Development (INHURED-International) filed a PIL seeking immediate intervention to scrap the NA’s fresh recruitment drive reasoning that the recruitment is against the existing constitution and Comprehensive Peace Agreement.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Timely constitution possible if unity govt formed immediately: Maoist chairman
At a time when leaders of the major ruling political parties have started talking about extension of the term of the Constituent Assembly (CA), concluding that promulgation of new constitution by May 28 is impossible, Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has claimed that timely statute is possible if a national unity government is formed immediately.
Speaking at a programme in the capital Tuesday, the Maoist chairman said if the current ruling coalition becomes ready for a national unity government "by correcting the past mistakes" the constitution could be promulgated within the prescribed time.
Dahal described the current ruling coalition as the major obstacle to constitution-writing process, but admitted that promulgation of the statute would not be possible if the stalemate continues for some time.
The Maoist party that has decided to step up the campaign for a new government under its leadership has been saying the CA's term should not be extended and that the statute must be issued on time.
The party has also dismissed the preconditions set by Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal for his resignation, which include dismantling of theparamilitary structure of the Young Communist League (YCL), return of properties seized during the insurgency and implementation of the past understandings with other parties.
Speaking at a programme in the capital Tuesday, the Maoist chairman said if the current ruling coalition becomes ready for a national unity government "by correcting the past mistakes" the constitution could be promulgated within the prescribed time.
Dahal described the current ruling coalition as the major obstacle to constitution-writing process, but admitted that promulgation of the statute would not be possible if the stalemate continues for some time.
The Maoist party that has decided to step up the campaign for a new government under its leadership has been saying the CA's term should not be extended and that the statute must be issued on time.
The party has also dismissed the preconditions set by Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal for his resignation, which include dismantling of theparamilitary structure of the Young Communist League (YCL), return of properties seized during the insurgency and implementation of the past understandings with other parties.
Prachanda sets condition of new govt for timely statute
KATHMANDU: Maoist supremo Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Tuesday claimed that the constitution could be promulgated in the stipulated timeframe provided the current government is toppled and a new national unity government formed.
Dahal inaugurating a programme organised by the Christian Suggestion Central Committee to pressurise the government for the timely promulgation of the new constitution at Khulla Mandh accused the government for delaying the constitution drafting process.
He said that if the situation of the current government remained the same then the constitution could not be drafted even by May 28 next year.
He made the statement following the parliamentary party meeting of the ruling party CPN-UML yesterday which concluded that the constitution could not be drafted on time due to the differences on the key constitutional issues among the leaders of various parties.
Dahal inaugurating a programme organised by the Christian Suggestion Central Committee to pressurise the government for the timely promulgation of the new constitution at Khulla Mandh accused the government for delaying the constitution drafting process.
He said that if the situation of the current government remained the same then the constitution could not be drafted even by May 28 next year.
He made the statement following the parliamentary party meeting of the ruling party CPN-UML yesterday which concluded that the constitution could not be drafted on time due to the differences on the key constitutional issues among the leaders of various parties.
Maoists training cadres, commoners across the nation for 'self-defence'
The Unified CPN (Maoist) has been providing physical training to its cadres and commoners across the nation in the name of preparing them for a possible people's rebellion.
Reports say, in Kailali, some 3000 people including both the party cadres and the public have been kept at 10 different temporary camps for a week-long training. Youths aged 16 to 25 are participating in the training that kicked off Monday.
The party has arranged for their food and accommodation. They are being trained on baton-charging and self defence skills in mobs. The party has said, it plans to train another 7000 persons in the districts.
Interestingly, the party has chosen a slogan, 'all youths are YCL, all YCL are militants' for the training.
Likewise, physical trainings were also conducted in Banke district including headquarter Nepalgunj
Reports say, in Kailali, some 3000 people including both the party cadres and the public have been kept at 10 different temporary camps for a week-long training. Youths aged 16 to 25 are participating in the training that kicked off Monday.
The party has arranged for their food and accommodation. They are being trained on baton-charging and self defence skills in mobs. The party has said, it plans to train another 7000 persons in the districts.
Interestingly, the party has chosen a slogan, 'all youths are YCL, all YCL are militants' for the training.
Likewise, physical trainings were also conducted in Banke district including headquarter Nepalgunj
Sitaula, Mainali deny involvement in Sudan scam
Former home minister Krishna Sitaula and home secretary Umesh Mainali have denied their involvement in the multi-million rupees scam while procuring logistics for Nepal Police's peace mission in Sudan, Tuesday.
Answering lawmakers' questions at a meeting of a sub-committee formed by the parliament's State Affairs Committee to probe the Sudan scam, Sitauala and Mainali defended themselves saying the procurement process was done by Nepal Police and that they were oblivious of the details.
The issue did not come to my knowledge as the procurement of Nepal Police is done through the Police Welfare Fund, said Sitaula.
The SAC had asked the sub-committee to discuss the issue with Sitaula and Mainali as the sub-committee mentioned suspected involvement of high-level political leadership in the scam, in its report.
In its reports, the SAC's sub-committee has concluded there had been a financial embezzlement of Rs 34 million when procuring logistics including APCs, water tanks, pre-fab houses and jackets and helmets were brought.
The SAC is preparing to submit the report to the government on April 23.
Answering lawmakers' questions at a meeting of a sub-committee formed by the parliament's State Affairs Committee to probe the Sudan scam, Sitauala and Mainali defended themselves saying the procurement process was done by Nepal Police and that they were oblivious of the details.
The issue did not come to my knowledge as the procurement of Nepal Police is done through the Police Welfare Fund, said Sitaula.
The SAC had asked the sub-committee to discuss the issue with Sitaula and Mainali as the sub-committee mentioned suspected involvement of high-level political leadership in the scam, in its report.
In its reports, the SAC's sub-committee has concluded there had been a financial embezzlement of Rs 34 million when procuring logistics including APCs, water tanks, pre-fab houses and jackets and helmets were brought.
The SAC is preparing to submit the report to the government on April 23.
Monday, April 19, 2010
NA begins recruitment; calls applications for 271 technical positions
Nepal Army (NA) has begun its recruitment process by calling for application for 271 positions in 40 different technical positions, Monday.
The recruitment directorate of Nepal Army issued a public notice Monday seeking application from eligible and interested Nepali citizens for the mentioned positions. NA has called for applications for technical positions including MBBS doctors, general mechanics, radio mechanics, vehicle mechanics and civil overseers.
NA’s recruitment process which had created a lot of controversy last year is certain to become controversial this year, too.
The main opposition Unified CPN (Maoist) has said, the recruitment is against the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), while NA has said, it is not recruiting additional personnel but only filling up the vacancies.
NA is recruiting personnel through open competition to fulfill the vacancies created after Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) within the approved number of soldiers and based on the number at the time of signing the CPA, NA has mentioned in the notice it issued today calling for the application.
Army spokesperson Ramindra Chhetri said, the other vacant positions would be gradually fulfilled.
Defense minister Bidhya Bhandari had recently permitted the NA headquarters to recruit new personnel for 500 technical positions and fulfill the other positions gradually.
The recruitment directorate of Nepal Army issued a public notice Monday seeking application from eligible and interested Nepali citizens for the mentioned positions. NA has called for applications for technical positions including MBBS doctors, general mechanics, radio mechanics, vehicle mechanics and civil overseers.
NA’s recruitment process which had created a lot of controversy last year is certain to become controversial this year, too.
The main opposition Unified CPN (Maoist) has said, the recruitment is against the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), while NA has said, it is not recruiting additional personnel but only filling up the vacancies.
NA is recruiting personnel through open competition to fulfill the vacancies created after Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) within the approved number of soldiers and based on the number at the time of signing the CPA, NA has mentioned in the notice it issued today calling for the application.
Army spokesperson Ramindra Chhetri said, the other vacant positions would be gradually fulfilled.
Defense minister Bidhya Bhandari had recently permitted the NA headquarters to recruit new personnel for 500 technical positions and fulfill the other positions gradually.
Nepali Sherpa team plans to clean Everest''s death zone
KATMANDU: A team of 20 Sherpa mountaineers plans to remove bodies of climbers who died in Mount Everest's "death zone," a treacherous stretch that has claimed some 300 lives since 1953, the team leader said Monday.
The team also aims to remove tons of garbage left behind on the slopes under a Nepalese government program to clean up the popular tourist destination.
The 20 Sherpas plan to begin the expedition May 1 and set up camp at the South Col, 26,240 feet (8,000 meters) above sea level, team leader Namgyal said. Just above the South Col is the "death zone" area known as the toughest stretch for climbers because of low oxygen levels and rough terrain.
The team said it plans to remove at least five bodies from a narrow trail between South Col and the summit, but has not identified them. In the past bodies have generally been removed only from lower elevations, because dangerous conditions have made removing bodies from the "death zone" nearly impossible.
The team also plans to remove some 6,600 pounds (3,000 kilograms) of garbage from the zone.
"We will carry empty sacks and fill them with empty oxygen bottles, food wrappings, old tents and ropes from the area," Namgyal said.
Garbage discarded on the mountain was a major environmental problem until the Nepalese government imposed strict rules about 15 years ago requiring visitors to return all of their gear and rubbish or risk losing a deposit.
It is unclear how much trash is left on the mountain, but several clean-up expeditions have brought down tons of garbage.
Namgyal, who like most Sherpa uses only one name, has climbed the 29,035-foot (8,850-meter) peak — the world's highest — seven times. One of the expedition's members, Long Dorje, has made the trip 14 times. All of the team members have visited the summit at least once.
Sherpas were mostly yak herders and traders living in the Himalayas until Nepal opened its borders to tourists in 1950. Their stamina and knowledge of the mountains makes them expert guides and porters.
The team also aims to remove tons of garbage left behind on the slopes under a Nepalese government program to clean up the popular tourist destination.
The 20 Sherpas plan to begin the expedition May 1 and set up camp at the South Col, 26,240 feet (8,000 meters) above sea level, team leader Namgyal said. Just above the South Col is the "death zone" area known as the toughest stretch for climbers because of low oxygen levels and rough terrain.
The team said it plans to remove at least five bodies from a narrow trail between South Col and the summit, but has not identified them. In the past bodies have generally been removed only from lower elevations, because dangerous conditions have made removing bodies from the "death zone" nearly impossible.
The team also plans to remove some 6,600 pounds (3,000 kilograms) of garbage from the zone.
"We will carry empty sacks and fill them with empty oxygen bottles, food wrappings, old tents and ropes from the area," Namgyal said.
Garbage discarded on the mountain was a major environmental problem until the Nepalese government imposed strict rules about 15 years ago requiring visitors to return all of their gear and rubbish or risk losing a deposit.
It is unclear how much trash is left on the mountain, but several clean-up expeditions have brought down tons of garbage.
Namgyal, who like most Sherpa uses only one name, has climbed the 29,035-foot (8,850-meter) peak — the world's highest — seven times. One of the expedition's members, Long Dorje, has made the trip 14 times. All of the team members have visited the summit at least once.
Sherpas were mostly yak herders and traders living in the Himalayas until Nepal opened its borders to tourists in 1950. Their stamina and knowledge of the mountains makes them expert guides and porters.
NAC aircraft force-lands in Solu; crew, passengers safe
A Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) aircraft force landed in a remote mountainous airstrip on Monday morning after it was unable to land in Faplu airport of remote Solukhombu district. All sixteen passengers on board and the crew are said to be safe.
The 9ABX Twin Otter aircraft that left for Phaplu of Solukhombu from Kathmandu at around 11 am couldn't land in the mountainous airport due to windy weather.
It was then diverted to the nearby Kangel airport where the pilots just managed to do a difficult forced landing as the weather there too was bad.
Reports say that the aircraft has suffered minor damage in the process.
Another Twin Otter aircraft belonging to NAC reached the Kangel airstrip in the afternoon and rescued the passengers
The 9ABX Twin Otter aircraft that left for Phaplu of Solukhombu from Kathmandu at around 11 am couldn't land in the mountainous airport due to windy weather.
It was then diverted to the nearby Kangel airport where the pilots just managed to do a difficult forced landing as the weather there too was bad.
Reports say that the aircraft has suffered minor damage in the process.
Another Twin Otter aircraft belonging to NAC reached the Kangel airstrip in the afternoon and rescued the passengers
Sunday, April 18, 2010
At least three killed, dozens injured in Chitwan bus accident
At least three persons including two women have been killed when a passenger bus numbered Na 2 Kha 8577 en route Gorkha to Tandi, Chitwan, overturned in Ramnagar of Chitwan, Sunday evening.
Indu Rawat and Sumitra Banjara were killed on the spot, while the other deceased was killed while undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College.
The injured are undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College and Bharatpur Hospital.
The rescue operation of the injured has been affected as it is raining in the area at present
Indu Rawat and Sumitra Banjara were killed on the spot, while the other deceased was killed while undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College.
The injured are undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College and Bharatpur Hospital.
The rescue operation of the injured has been affected as it is raining in the area at present
'Ex-king becoming active due to increasing discord among parties'
A senior government minister has said that the former king is trying to become active taking advantage of the increasing discord and mistrust among the political parties.
Minister of State for Local Development Ganesh Bahadur Khadka said that the constitution cannot be promulgated within the May 28 deadline until the integration and rehabilitation work of Maoist combatants is finished.Khadka, who was speaking to journalists in a programme organized in Bhatkhola VDC-7, said that the responsibility of preparing a new constitution is upon the shoulders of all the political parties represented in the Constituent Assembly, but that the Maoists have emerged as a major hindrance in the constitution drafting process.
He also requested the former rebel party of not using their politically indoctrinated combatants to fulfill their vested political interests.
In an interview with a private television channel about a month ago, former king Gyanendra Shah had said that it is hypothetical to say monarchy has been abolished in the country and that it is up to the people to decide on the matter.
Minister of State for Local Development Ganesh Bahadur Khadka said that the constitution cannot be promulgated within the May 28 deadline until the integration and rehabilitation work of Maoist combatants is finished.Khadka, who was speaking to journalists in a programme organized in Bhatkhola VDC-7, said that the responsibility of preparing a new constitution is upon the shoulders of all the political parties represented in the Constituent Assembly, but that the Maoists have emerged as a major hindrance in the constitution drafting process.
He also requested the former rebel party of not using their politically indoctrinated combatants to fulfill their vested political interests.
In an interview with a private television channel about a month ago, former king Gyanendra Shah had said that it is hypothetical to say monarchy has been abolished in the country and that it is up to the people to decide on the matter.
Govt officer shot dead in Bhairahawa
Unidentified assailants shot dead one government officer in Bhairahawa on Saturday night.
The deceased has been identified as Jit Bahadur Thapa of Lakhanchowk in Rupandehi district.
Thapa was working as a Junior Technical Assistant (JTA) at an agriculture research institute in Bhairahawa.
Reports quoted policed as saying that the armed group of men had entered the house of Thapa by breaking open the locks at the main gates at around 9:30 pm.
They shot Thapa after he attacked one of the armed men trying to grab the gold earring his daughter Anupa was wearing and rob other belongings.
Thapa was later taken to Bhim Hospital in Bhairahawa where he succumbed to his bullet injuries.
Police said they have started a manhunt to nab the assailants
The deceased has been identified as Jit Bahadur Thapa of Lakhanchowk in Rupandehi district.
Thapa was working as a Junior Technical Assistant (JTA) at an agriculture research institute in Bhairahawa.
Reports quoted policed as saying that the armed group of men had entered the house of Thapa by breaking open the locks at the main gates at around 9:30 pm.
They shot Thapa after he attacked one of the armed men trying to grab the gold earring his daughter Anupa was wearing and rob other belongings.
Thapa was later taken to Bhim Hospital in Bhairahawa where he succumbed to his bullet injuries.
Police said they have started a manhunt to nab the assailants
UML cadres take to streets over veteran cadre suicide
JHAPA: Cadres of the ruling CPN-UML citing the party's apathy in the suicide of veteran cadre Digendra Rajbanshi staged demonstrations in Jhapa district on Sunday.
Hundreds of relatives and well wishers of the deceased Rajbanshi and UML activists chanted slogans against the party and staged demonstrations in Charali section of the East-West highway since morning. Vehicles plying on the highway have been stranded following the protest.
The agitators accused the party of neglecting Rajbanshi who was actively involved in the party for the past 37 years. Party negligence was the major cause of his suicide, the agitators claimed. The deceased's body has been taken to his residence in Duwagadi-5.
Rajbanshi, 65 had committed suicide by hanging himself from a plum tree in the premises of the UML headquarters at Balkhu, Kathmandu on Saturday morning.
He was staying in the party headquarters in the hope of finding a job for his son Shambhu, 25 for the past two months. He met senior leaders of the party and ministers as well but to no avail. He was disappointed with their responses and ultimately killed himself, a family source said.
He was a colleague of KP Sharma Oli, Radha Krishna Mainali, Biren Rajbanshi, CP Mainali and Mohan Chandra Adhikari among others during the Peasants' Uprising in Jhapa during 1970s and was sentenced to six years imprisonment in Birgunj and Kathmandu on the charge of sedition.
Hundreds of relatives and well wishers of the deceased Rajbanshi and UML activists chanted slogans against the party and staged demonstrations in Charali section of the East-West highway since morning. Vehicles plying on the highway have been stranded following the protest.
The agitators accused the party of neglecting Rajbanshi who was actively involved in the party for the past 37 years. Party negligence was the major cause of his suicide, the agitators claimed. The deceased's body has been taken to his residence in Duwagadi-5.
Rajbanshi, 65 had committed suicide by hanging himself from a plum tree in the premises of the UML headquarters at Balkhu, Kathmandu on Saturday morning.
He was staying in the party headquarters in the hope of finding a job for his son Shambhu, 25 for the past two months. He met senior leaders of the party and ministers as well but to no avail. He was disappointed with their responses and ultimately killed himself, a family source said.
He was a colleague of KP Sharma Oli, Radha Krishna Mainali, Biren Rajbanshi, CP Mainali and Mohan Chandra Adhikari among others during the Peasants' Uprising in Jhapa during 1970s and was sentenced to six years imprisonment in Birgunj and Kathmandu on the charge of sedition.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
One dead, several taken ill by diarrhea in Jajarkot
One person has died and several others fallen ill due to diarrhea in Jajarkot in the past week.
The deceased has been identified as Dharmi Shahi, 22. At least 700 persons were treated in the past week alone. Reports say, the disease that started since early April from remote villages of Nayakbada has spread in most of the villages now.
During the same season last year, more than 200 persons had died due to diarrhea in Jajarkot.
The fear that the disease might take an epidemic form, this year too, is looming large in the district
The deceased has been identified as Dharmi Shahi, 22. At least 700 persons were treated in the past week alone. Reports say, the disease that started since early April from remote villages of Nayakbada has spread in most of the villages now.
During the same season last year, more than 200 persons had died due to diarrhea in Jajarkot.
The fear that the disease might take an epidemic form, this year too, is looming large in the district
Fire breaks out in Nepal Bank's head office at New Road
Fire broke out at the storeroom of Nepal Bank Limited's head office located at New Road in central Kathmandu Saturday morning.
It took firefighters from the Nepal Army and Juddha Fire Brigade over two hours to douse the fire at started around 5:00 am. Nepal Police, Armed Police Force personnel and locals were also involved in extinguishing the fire.
Documents stored in three storerooms of the bank were completely destroyed in the fire, but complete details of the damage were not available immediately. A few adjoining houses have also been partly damaged.
Local residents had informed the police and the fire brigade after seeing smoke willowing out of the bank's building at around 6:00 am.It was not clear what caused the fire, but police suspected it might have started because of electric short-circuit.
This was the second incident of fire breakout in downtown Kathmandu in less than 24 hours. Friday evening, three houses were completely destroyed Itumbahal when fire spread from the kitchen of one of the houses
It took firefighters from the Nepal Army and Juddha Fire Brigade over two hours to douse the fire at started around 5:00 am. Nepal Police, Armed Police Force personnel and locals were also involved in extinguishing the fire.
Documents stored in three storerooms of the bank were completely destroyed in the fire, but complete details of the damage were not available immediately. A few adjoining houses have also been partly damaged.
Local residents had informed the police and the fire brigade after seeing smoke willowing out of the bank's building at around 6:00 am.It was not clear what caused the fire, but police suspected it might have started because of electric short-circuit.
This was the second incident of fire breakout in downtown Kathmandu in less than 24 hours. Friday evening, three houses were completely destroyed Itumbahal when fire spread from the kitchen of one of the houses
Army integration within one month: Chemjong
CHITWAN: A major step towards the lingering peace process, the integration of the Maoist fighters into the national army would be accomplished within next one month, said Rakam Chemjong, the peace and reconstruction minister on Saturday.
Addressing a press meet in Chitwan, minister Chemjong also said only 3,000 Maoist combatants would be integrated at a time when the government has already revealed the actual strength of the national army as per appropriate standards.
Minister Chemjong also charged the former rebels with creating unnecessary hurdles at this last hour of the integration process. He however ruled out any possibility of promulgating a new constitution without first completing the integration process.
The peace minister arrived here in the district to inspect the distribution of salaries among the Maoist fighters at its Third Division Shaktikhor cantonment. In all, 3,936 combatants received their salary for three months.
Addressing a press meet in Chitwan, minister Chemjong also said only 3,000 Maoist combatants would be integrated at a time when the government has already revealed the actual strength of the national army as per appropriate standards.
Minister Chemjong also charged the former rebels with creating unnecessary hurdles at this last hour of the integration process. He however ruled out any possibility of promulgating a new constitution without first completing the integration process.
The peace minister arrived here in the district to inspect the distribution of salaries among the Maoist fighters at its Third Division Shaktikhor cantonment. In all, 3,936 combatants received their salary for three months.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Fire destroys six houses in central Kathmandu
At least six houses were gutted in fire at Itumbahal, a congested area in central Kathmandu, Friday evening.
Fire fighters from Juddha Fire Brigade, Nepal Army and police personnel and the locals were involved in extinguishing the inferno, but the fire was still out of control by the time this report was filed (8:00 pm).
The fire broke out due to leakage of cooking gas from the kitchen of a houses at around 6:00 pm, local residents said.
No human casualty was reported in the incident.
Fire fighters from Juddha Fire Brigade, Nepal Army and police personnel and the locals were involved in extinguishing the inferno, but the fire was still out of control by the time this report was filed (8:00 pm).
The fire broke out due to leakage of cooking gas from the kitchen of a houses at around 6:00 pm, local residents said.
No human casualty was reported in the incident.
PM Nepal meets President; blames Maoists for delay in constitution writing
Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal called on President Dr Ram Baran Yadav at the latter's office, Shital Niwas, discussing the country's current political scenario.
According to a press statement issued by Prime Minister Nepal's media advisor Bishnu Rijal, the Prime Minister told the President that he was "making every effort to bring the peace process to a meaningful conclusion".
Informing about his meeting with the leaders of six political parties earlier today, minus Unified CPN (Maoist), Nepal maintained that the Maoists were not showing seriousness to draft the constitution while the deadline for promulgation of the statute is inching closer.
President Yadav, on his part, emphasised on need for consensus among the political parties to take the constitution-making and the peace process to their destination.
The meeting between the Prime Minister and the President comes a day after the latter met the three top leaders of another ruling party, Nepali Congress.
According to a press statement issued by Prime Minister Nepal's media advisor Bishnu Rijal, the Prime Minister told the President that he was "making every effort to bring the peace process to a meaningful conclusion".
Informing about his meeting with the leaders of six political parties earlier today, minus Unified CPN (Maoist), Nepal maintained that the Maoists were not showing seriousness to draft the constitution while the deadline for promulgation of the statute is inching closer.
President Yadav, on his part, emphasised on need for consensus among the political parties to take the constitution-making and the peace process to their destination.
The meeting between the Prime Minister and the President comes a day after the latter met the three top leaders of another ruling party, Nepali Congress.
8 Tibetans caught sneaking into Nepal
KATHMANDU: A police patrol along the Nepal-China border Thursday night detained eight Tibetans, including six women for illegally entering Nepal via the Singate Bazaar transit point of Dolakha district.
The Tibetans, who sneaked into Nepal, failed to produce their travel documents when asked by the authorities. Their motive for crossing the border was not immediately known.
DSP Dhiraj Pratap Singh, the in-charge of Dolakha police, informed that they would be handed over to the Department of Immigration.
An official at the DoI said they would either be deported to Tibet, imprisoned in Nepal or handed over to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR).
Nepal has long tried to prevent the influx of Tibetans into Nepal as per its commitment to maintaining the ‘One China’ policy towards its northern neighbour.
The Tibetans, who sneaked into Nepal, failed to produce their travel documents when asked by the authorities. Their motive for crossing the border was not immediately known.
DSP Dhiraj Pratap Singh, the in-charge of Dolakha police, informed that they would be handed over to the Department of Immigration.
An official at the DoI said they would either be deported to Tibet, imprisoned in Nepal or handed over to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR).
Nepal has long tried to prevent the influx of Tibetans into Nepal as per its commitment to maintaining the ‘One China’ policy towards its northern neighbour.
Violence flares as Maoists clash with MJF-L in Kapilvastu
KATHMANDU: Over half-a-dozen people were injured in a clash that broke out between the Maoists and the cadres of the Madhesi Janadhikar Forum-Loktantrik (MJF-L) at Waralpur of Kapilvastu district on Friday.
The clash ensued after the MJF-L cadres hurled a stone at the Maoist cadres, who waved black flags to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Physical Planning and Works, Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar.
DPM Gachhadar arrived in Kapivastu to take part in the opening session of the General Assembly of Tharu Non-Governmental Organization Federation
The clash ensued after the MJF-L cadres hurled a stone at the Maoist cadres, who waved black flags to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Physical Planning and Works, Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar.
DPM Gachhadar arrived in Kapivastu to take part in the opening session of the General Assembly of Tharu Non-Governmental Organization Federation
Thursday, April 15, 2010
NC puts forth four conditions before Maoists for govt change
Nepali Congress (NC) top leaders have clearly put forth four conditions before the Unified CPN (Maoist) to dissolve the present government and form a national consensus government.
Speaking to journalists at a tea reception hosted by NC vice president Ram Chandra Poudel on the occassion of New Year 2067 at his residence Wednesday, three top leaders of NC, acting president Sushil Koirala, vice president Poudel and senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba expressly said, they will strive for the change of government if the Maoists show their commitment to fulfill those conditions.
The four conditions put forward by NC are return of seized property and land to the rightful owners, transformation of the Maoist youth wing Young Communist League (YCL) from its existing para-military structure, clear plans for army and arms management before promulgating the constitution and a convincing commitment to show the Maoists have transformed themselves to a citizen party and renounced violence.
If the Maoists set forth plans to fulfill these conditions, we can talk about forming a national consensus government, said Poudel.
Soon after Poudel described the conditions, leader Deuba said, if the four proposals put forward by our party is fulfilled, I myself will ask Madhav Nepal to resign.
Acting president Koirala accused the Maoists of not creating an environment to complete the constitution writing process before May 28. He also said, Maoists have to be more responsible than other parties as the largest party in the Constituent Assembly.
Koirala further said, our bottom line is the integration of Maoist combatants should be completed before promulgating the constitution
Speaking to journalists at a tea reception hosted by NC vice president Ram Chandra Poudel on the occassion of New Year 2067 at his residence Wednesday, three top leaders of NC, acting president Sushil Koirala, vice president Poudel and senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba expressly said, they will strive for the change of government if the Maoists show their commitment to fulfill those conditions.
The four conditions put forward by NC are return of seized property and land to the rightful owners, transformation of the Maoist youth wing Young Communist League (YCL) from its existing para-military structure, clear plans for army and arms management before promulgating the constitution and a convincing commitment to show the Maoists have transformed themselves to a citizen party and renounced violence.
If the Maoists set forth plans to fulfill these conditions, we can talk about forming a national consensus government, said Poudel.
Soon after Poudel described the conditions, leader Deuba said, if the four proposals put forward by our party is fulfilled, I myself will ask Madhav Nepal to resign.
Acting president Koirala accused the Maoists of not creating an environment to complete the constitution writing process before May 28. He also said, Maoists have to be more responsible than other parties as the largest party in the Constituent Assembly.
Koirala further said, our bottom line is the integration of Maoist combatants should be completed before promulgating the constitution
UML chairman Khanal says new constitution on May 28 not possible
CPN (UML) chairman Jhala Nath Khanal has said it is not possible to promulgate the constitution on May 28 as the time remaining is too short and the tasks to be completed too many, Thursday morning.
Speaking to representatives of Parijat Memorial Centre, who had gone to Khanal's residence in Dallu to recite poems, Khanal said it is not possible to issue a new constitution on May 28 due to technical as well as political reasons.
‘Some people are still touting that the constitution will be issued on May 28,’ said Khanal. ‘But, it is not necessary to lie to the people now, because issuing a constitution on May 28 is not possible.’
This is the first time a top leader has overtly said, the constitution cannot be drafted within May 28.
Also a member of the High Level Political Mechanism (HLPM), Khanal said, a new consensus on how to go about the constitution drafting and peace process after May 28 is required now.
Although, there are only 43 days before for writing the constitution, there are major differences on the key issues including the form of governance and state restructuring, among the major political parties.
Only three out of eleven thematic committees of the Constituent Assembly (CA) have submitted their full reports at the Constitutional Committee (CC), which has been delegated to compile the reports.
CC chairman Nilambar Acharya has said, one month is required for the CC to compile the reports only.
Speaking to representatives of Parijat Memorial Centre, who had gone to Khanal's residence in Dallu to recite poems, Khanal said it is not possible to issue a new constitution on May 28 due to technical as well as political reasons.
‘Some people are still touting that the constitution will be issued on May 28,’ said Khanal. ‘But, it is not necessary to lie to the people now, because issuing a constitution on May 28 is not possible.’
This is the first time a top leader has overtly said, the constitution cannot be drafted within May 28.
Also a member of the High Level Political Mechanism (HLPM), Khanal said, a new consensus on how to go about the constitution drafting and peace process after May 28 is required now.
Although, there are only 43 days before for writing the constitution, there are major differences on the key issues including the form of governance and state restructuring, among the major political parties.
Only three out of eleven thematic committees of the Constituent Assembly (CA) have submitted their full reports at the Constitutional Committee (CC), which has been delegated to compile the reports.
CC chairman Nilambar Acharya has said, one month is required for the CC to compile the reports only.
Big three parties busy in internal meetings
The top political parties are busy holding internal meetings on Thursday to find a way of the prevalent political deadlock that is threatening to delay the constitution drafting process.
The Parliamentary Party meeting of the main ruling party CPN (UML) and Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting of coalition partner Nepali Congress has begun a short while ago today.
CPN (UML) is holding the meeting at Singha Durbar, the seat of the government, wherein its leaders are putting forth their viewpoint as to whether Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal should continue or step down from his post.
NC is holding its CWC meeting at the part's central office in Sanepa.
Reports quoted NC leaders as saying that the NC meeting will hold discussion on the preparation that should be done for the much awaited 12th General Convention of the party.
The meeting will also set the date for the party's area, town and district committee's convention.
Meanwhile, the main opposition Unified CPN (Maoist) is also holding its standing committee meeting as well as politburo meeting today.
The party said the standing committee meeting is being held to sort out the agenda for discussion during the politburo meeting.
There will be discussion on timely constitution drafting and the party's future agenda during the meeting
The Parliamentary Party meeting of the main ruling party CPN (UML) and Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting of coalition partner Nepali Congress has begun a short while ago today.
CPN (UML) is holding the meeting at Singha Durbar, the seat of the government, wherein its leaders are putting forth their viewpoint as to whether Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal should continue or step down from his post.
NC is holding its CWC meeting at the part's central office in Sanepa.
Reports quoted NC leaders as saying that the NC meeting will hold discussion on the preparation that should be done for the much awaited 12th General Convention of the party.
The meeting will also set the date for the party's area, town and district committee's convention.
Meanwhile, the main opposition Unified CPN (Maoist) is also holding its standing committee meeting as well as politburo meeting today.
The party said the standing committee meeting is being held to sort out the agenda for discussion during the politburo meeting.
There will be discussion on timely constitution drafting and the party's future agenda during the meeting
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Sood expresses dissatisfaction with Dahal
Indian ambassador to Nepal Rakesh Sood met with Unified CPN (Maoist) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Wednesday morning to express his government's dissatisfaction on cancellation of Machine Readable Passport (MRP) contract.
The meeting was held at Dahal's residence in Naya Bazzar. Dahal is learnt to have informed the Indian envoy that fault was of the government.
Under Maoist pressure, the government cancelled its earlier decision to lend MRP printing contract to an Indian company. The two governments had also signed the agreement to this effect.
According to Indian media reports, Indian external affairs minister S M Krishna intervened to get the contract despite the foreign ministry here having floated an open bidding tender.
Besides MRP contract, Sood is learnt to have discussed latest political development and Maoist protests to topple the current coalition government. Sood on Tuesday met with Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal to express his dissatisfaction over on cancellation of the contract.
The meeting was held at Dahal's residence in Naya Bazzar. Dahal is learnt to have informed the Indian envoy that fault was of the government.
Under Maoist pressure, the government cancelled its earlier decision to lend MRP printing contract to an Indian company. The two governments had also signed the agreement to this effect.
According to Indian media reports, Indian external affairs minister S M Krishna intervened to get the contract despite the foreign ministry here having floated an open bidding tender.
Besides MRP contract, Sood is learnt to have discussed latest political development and Maoist protests to topple the current coalition government. Sood on Tuesday met with Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal to express his dissatisfaction over on cancellation of the contract.
New Year 2067 begins; Prez, PM, leaders stress on consensus for peace
New Year 2067 has begun Wednesday. People across the country and Nepalis living abroad are celebrating the beginning of year 2067 as per the Bikram Era by exchanging good wishes with each other.
Likewise, various organisation in and outside the country are organising programmes to mark the beginning of the New Year.
President Ram Baran Yadav, Vice President Parmananda Jha, Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, Unified CPN (Maoist) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Nepali Congress (NC) acting president Sushil Koirala, CPN (UML) Jhala Nath Khanal, former King Gyanendra Shah and other leaders have issued new year messages to the people.
In his new year greetings, President Yadav has said, reconciliation and national unity is today's necessity.
Saying a fear about whether the peace and the constitution drafting process will complete on time or not ilooming large before the people, President Yadav said, the government and the political parties have a special responsibility in the year ahead to wipe out such fear.
Vice President Jha has wished for increased harmony among the people in the coming year, in his greetings.
PM Nepal has expressed his commitment to take the peace process to a logical conclusion by ending the differences among the political parties, this year.
In a televised New Year greeting message, PM Nepal said he tried for consensus in the previous and will continue to do the same in the year ahead. He also urged the political parties to forget the trivial differences and come to a consensus for the cause of a new constitution and a logical conclusion of the peace process
Likewise, various organisation in and outside the country are organising programmes to mark the beginning of the New Year.
President Ram Baran Yadav, Vice President Parmananda Jha, Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, Unified CPN (Maoist) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Nepali Congress (NC) acting president Sushil Koirala, CPN (UML) Jhala Nath Khanal, former King Gyanendra Shah and other leaders have issued new year messages to the people.
In his new year greetings, President Yadav has said, reconciliation and national unity is today's necessity.
Saying a fear about whether the peace and the constitution drafting process will complete on time or not ilooming large before the people, President Yadav said, the government and the political parties have a special responsibility in the year ahead to wipe out such fear.
Vice President Jha has wished for increased harmony among the people in the coming year, in his greetings.
PM Nepal has expressed his commitment to take the peace process to a logical conclusion by ending the differences among the political parties, this year.
In a televised New Year greeting message, PM Nepal said he tried for consensus in the previous and will continue to do the same in the year ahead. He also urged the political parties to forget the trivial differences and come to a consensus for the cause of a new constitution and a logical conclusion of the peace process
Leaders prove too busy to decide PLA fate
KATHMANDU: The meeting of the Army Integration Special Committee (AISC) for the Integration, Supervision and Rehabilitation of the Maoist combatants scheduled for Wednesday was postponed yet again as the chiefs of the political parties were unable to allocate the time from their busy schedules. Earlier on Monday also AISC meet was postponed citing the same reason 'the busy schedules of the top leaders'.
On Friday, AISC had summoned the top leaders of the six main political parties representing the AISC, to end the many pending issues regarding the army integration. The date of the next meeting is yet to be decided.
The special committee, formed under the Prime Minister for the supervision, rehabilitation and integration of Maoist fighters includes representatives from UCPN (Maoist), Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), Madheshi Janadhikar Forum Nepal, Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum (Loktantrik) and Terai Madhesh Loktantrik party.
Today's meeting was expected to decide and discuss on the undecided issues of the army integration, informing the party leaders about the AISC progress report and the action plan and discuss on the proposal of the technical committee on army integration.
On Friday, AISC had summoned the top leaders of the six main political parties representing the AISC, to end the many pending issues regarding the army integration. The date of the next meeting is yet to be decided.
The special committee, formed under the Prime Minister for the supervision, rehabilitation and integration of Maoist fighters includes representatives from UCPN (Maoist), Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), Madheshi Janadhikar Forum Nepal, Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum (Loktantrik) and Terai Madhesh Loktantrik party.
Today's meeting was expected to decide and discuss on the undecided issues of the army integration, informing the party leaders about the AISC progress report and the action plan and discuss on the proposal of the technical committee on army integration.
Mother's Day being observed
Nepalis across the country abroad are observing Mother's Day by worshipping and offering gifts to their mothers, Wednesday.
Mother's Day is observed every year on the no moon day of Baisakh month according to the lunar calendar to acknowledge a mother's contribution to her children.
People offer gifts and sweets to make their mother happy on this day.
Those whose mother has passed away go to Matatirtha in Kathmandu and make offerings in the name of their deceased mother.
Thousands of people have thronged Matatirtha Wednesday morning for the ritual of paying homage to their deceased mother.
Mother's Day is observed every year on the no moon day of Baisakh month according to the lunar calendar to acknowledge a mother's contribution to her children.
People offer gifts and sweets to make their mother happy on this day.
Those whose mother has passed away go to Matatirtha in Kathmandu and make offerings in the name of their deceased mother.
Thousands of people have thronged Matatirtha Wednesday morning for the ritual of paying homage to their deceased mother.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Happy New Year 2067
With all the Rose’s Perfume
& with all the lights in the world
& with all the children Smiles…
I Wish U that your all dreams comes True..
*HAPPY NEW YEAR 2067*
Years come n go,but this year
I specially wish 4 u a double dose of health n happiness
topped with loads of good fortune.
Have a gr8 year ahead! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Little keys open big locks
Simple words reflect great thoughts
Your smile can cure heart blocks
So keep on smiling it rocks.
Happy New Year 2067
Before the golden sun sets,
2066’s calender is destroyed,
And mobile networks get jammed,
I wish in 2067 every moment is enjoyed
2067 is at the door…
Remember
Life is short, break the rules,
Forgive quickly,
love truly,
laugh uncontrollably,
and
never regret anything that made you smile
& with all the lights in the world
& with all the children Smiles…
I Wish U that your all dreams comes True..
*HAPPY NEW YEAR 2067*
Years come n go,but this year
I specially wish 4 u a double dose of health n happiness
topped with loads of good fortune.
Have a gr8 year ahead! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Little keys open big locks
Simple words reflect great thoughts
Your smile can cure heart blocks
So keep on smiling it rocks.
Happy New Year 2067
Before the golden sun sets,
2066’s calender is destroyed,
And mobile networks get jammed,
I wish in 2067 every moment is enjoyed
2067 is at the door…
Remember
Life is short, break the rules,
Forgive quickly,
love truly,
laugh uncontrollably,
and
never regret anything that made you smile
UML calls indefinite Rasuwa bandh in protest of attack
CPN (UML) cadres have closed Rasuwa district Tuesday protesting against the attack on their fellow cadres Babu Ram Tamang and Dev Bahadur Tamang.
Market in district headquarter Dhunche, a touristy hamlet Shyabrubesi and Kalikasthan have remained closed and traffic along the Trishuli-Dhunche section of the Pasang Lhamu Highway have been obstructed due to the bandh.
UML district committee, Rasuwa has said, the bandh will continue indefinitely until action is taken against perpetrators.
UML has accused Unified CPN (Maoist) affiliated Young Communist League (YCL) cadres of attacking their fellow cadres.
Tamang duo were attacked by a group of persons led by YCL Rasuwa in charge Sunday night
Market in district headquarter Dhunche, a touristy hamlet Shyabrubesi and Kalikasthan have remained closed and traffic along the Trishuli-Dhunche section of the Pasang Lhamu Highway have been obstructed due to the bandh.
UML district committee, Rasuwa has said, the bandh will continue indefinitely until action is taken against perpetrators.
UML has accused Unified CPN (Maoist) affiliated Young Communist League (YCL) cadres of attacking their fellow cadres.
Tamang duo were attacked by a group of persons led by YCL Rasuwa in charge Sunday night
Three including two minors die in Kavre road mishap
At least three persons including two children were killed when a crammed bus en route to Sindhuli from Banepa overturned on the road at Majuwabagar in Kavre district Tuesday afternoon.
A woman and a small boy were killed on the spot while another child died while undergoing treatment at Dhulikhel hospital, reports said.
Some 90 passengers were injured in the accident, reports added.
A woman and a small boy were killed on the spot while another child died while undergoing treatment at Dhulikhel hospital, reports said.
Some 90 passengers were injured in the accident, reports added.
India regrets 'politicisation' of MRP issue
India has expressed dissatisfaction over what it called "politicisation" of Nepal government's earlier decision to award the printing contract of machine readable passports (MRPs) to India.
"It is a matter of regret that the issue has been politicized in Nepal and confidential communication from the Embassy has been publicised," said a press release issued by the Indian embassy on Tuesday.
It further said that India agreed to supply the machine readable passport booklets through its government undertaking, Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India (SPMCIL), at a concessional price, "as a gesture of goodwill and in keeping with the friendly relations between the two countries."
"In the spirit of mutual cooperation, the Government of India further agreed to provide, at its cost, technical assistance, which included supply of software and hardware equipment, installation of these equipments at the Central passport Office in Kathmandu and training of GON officials for personalization of Machine Readable Passports," added the press release.
It said the arrangements agreed with the Government of Nepal would have allowed it to issue machine readable passports by early-June 2010, adding at the end that Government of India remains "committed to strengthening India-Nepal relations which have withstood the test of time".
Earlier today morning, Indian ambassador to Nepal Rakesh Sood met with Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal.
Sources say, ambassador Sood expressed dissatisfaction over the government decision to revoke the contract for printing MRPs during the meeting with the PM.
"It is a matter of regret that the issue has been politicized in Nepal and confidential communication from the Embassy has been publicised," said a press release issued by the Indian embassy on Tuesday.
It further said that India agreed to supply the machine readable passport booklets through its government undertaking, Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India (SPMCIL), at a concessional price, "as a gesture of goodwill and in keeping with the friendly relations between the two countries."
"In the spirit of mutual cooperation, the Government of India further agreed to provide, at its cost, technical assistance, which included supply of software and hardware equipment, installation of these equipments at the Central passport Office in Kathmandu and training of GON officials for personalization of Machine Readable Passports," added the press release.
It said the arrangements agreed with the Government of Nepal would have allowed it to issue machine readable passports by early-June 2010, adding at the end that Government of India remains "committed to strengthening India-Nepal relations which have withstood the test of time".
Earlier today morning, Indian ambassador to Nepal Rakesh Sood met with Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal.
Sources say, ambassador Sood expressed dissatisfaction over the government decision to revoke the contract for printing MRPs during the meeting with the PM.
PM urges for dialogue in new year greeting
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal on Tuesday urged the political parties for cooperation and consensus to take the nation ahead by learning lessons from the past. He stressed on the talks and discussion among the parties to end the differences and grievances with an open mind.
Delivering the new year message on the eve of the New Year 2067 B.S. at his official residence, Baluwatar, Kathmandu on Tuesday evening he said that the differences in the new federal structure of the country and the structure of the government among the political parties are the main cause behind the delay in drafting the new constitution on time. He said that the government is committed to the constitution drafting issue. He urged the all political parties to cooperate and play a positive role in order to ensure the timely new constitution.Amidst widespread criticism over the inability of the government to garner the consensus for taking the peace process to the logical conclusion, he defended his government's commitment to it. The PM also sought the people's help given that just one and half months are left for the constitution drafting deadline.
Stating that the Maoist army integration is the key to take the peace process to a logical conclusion, he expressed his belief that all would cooperate on the issue.
Delivering the address he greeted all the Nepalese residing at home and abroad "A Happy New Year" praying that it would bring new hope and prosperity in the lives of all the Nepalese people.
The PM's address comes on the heels of the government being forced to withdraw its decision on the MRP deal with India and the demand by the UML lawmakers for his resignation during the UML Parliamentary Part meet. But as expected the PM did not touch on the subjects.
Delivering the new year message on the eve of the New Year 2067 B.S. at his official residence, Baluwatar, Kathmandu on Tuesday evening he said that the differences in the new federal structure of the country and the structure of the government among the political parties are the main cause behind the delay in drafting the new constitution on time. He said that the government is committed to the constitution drafting issue. He urged the all political parties to cooperate and play a positive role in order to ensure the timely new constitution.Amidst widespread criticism over the inability of the government to garner the consensus for taking the peace process to the logical conclusion, he defended his government's commitment to it. The PM also sought the people's help given that just one and half months are left for the constitution drafting deadline.
Stating that the Maoist army integration is the key to take the peace process to a logical conclusion, he expressed his belief that all would cooperate on the issue.
Delivering the address he greeted all the Nepalese residing at home and abroad "A Happy New Year" praying that it would bring new hope and prosperity in the lives of all the Nepalese people.
The PM's address comes on the heels of the government being forced to withdraw its decision on the MRP deal with India and the demand by the UML lawmakers for his resignation during the UML Parliamentary Part meet. But as expected the PM did not touch on the subjects.
Monday, April 12, 2010
MRP hearing cancelled
The hearing on writ petition filed in the Supreme Court against the government decision to award the contract for the printing of Machine Readable Passports (MRP) to an Indian government-owned firm has been postponed to a later date today.
The hearing that was scheduled to be conducted by the single bench of Justice Damodar Sharma was cancelled due to another pending case, the SC said today.
The decision on the new date for hearing on the case will be made later, it is learnt.
Advocate Hem Mani Subedi had filed the writ on April 6, stating that the decision to award the printing contract to India without bidding is illegal and that this will pose threat to the country's security.
On April 7, the SC issued an interim order asking the government not to proceed with the printing contract of Machine Readable Passport (MRP).
The SC in its order had directed the government to suspend the process until its next hearing, which had been scheduled for today
The hearing that was scheduled to be conducted by the single bench of Justice Damodar Sharma was cancelled due to another pending case, the SC said today.
The decision on the new date for hearing on the case will be made later, it is learnt.
Advocate Hem Mani Subedi had filed the writ on April 6, stating that the decision to award the printing contract to India without bidding is illegal and that this will pose threat to the country's security.
On April 7, the SC issued an interim order asking the government not to proceed with the printing contract of Machine Readable Passport (MRP).
The SC in its order had directed the government to suspend the process until its next hearing, which had been scheduled for today
Unidentified group attacks Tri-Chandra student leader
Following attack on the unit chairman of the UML-affiliated All Nepal National Free Student Union (ANNFSU), Tri Chandra Campus in capital, the situation had turned tense in the area for few hours.
Unidentified attackers struck Samik Badal at around 11:30 am inside the campus compound. Four other students were also severely beaten by the attackers. Injured Badal has been rushed to Kathmandu Model Hospital for treatment. Three fingers of his left hand has been cut off besides receiving injuries in arm and back.
Students of the campus have been demonstrating, obstructing the road, demanding arrest and punishment on the attackers. In a statement ANNFSU blamed Nepali Congress aligned-Nepal Student Union for the attack.
Police have been mobilised to bring the situation under control. Police said attackers have been identified and efforts are being made to arrest them at the earliest possible.
Unidentified attackers struck Samik Badal at around 11:30 am inside the campus compound. Four other students were also severely beaten by the attackers. Injured Badal has been rushed to Kathmandu Model Hospital for treatment. Three fingers of his left hand has been cut off besides receiving injuries in arm and back.
Students of the campus have been demonstrating, obstructing the road, demanding arrest and punishment on the attackers. In a statement ANNFSU blamed Nepali Congress aligned-Nepal Student Union for the attack.
Police have been mobilised to bring the situation under control. Police said attackers have been identified and efforts are being made to arrest them at the earliest possible.
Maoists' dream will never come true: Minister Mahato
Minister for Commerce and Supplies Rajendra Mahato has said that it has now become clear to the people that the Maoists are more eager to get into power instead of promulgating the constitution within the May 28 deadline.
Minister Mahato, who was speaking at a press meet organized in Gaur of Rautahat Monday, asserted that the Maoists' dream of forming a government under their leadership and promulgate the constitution will "never come true".
He said that the call of the hour is to garner political consensus for the timely drafting of the constitution than to engage in petty disputes.
But the Maoists are more eager to form a government under their leadership than focus on the important task of promulgating the constitution within the stipulated time, Mahato added.
Minister Mahato, who was speaking at a press meet organized in Gaur of Rautahat Monday, asserted that the Maoists' dream of forming a government under their leadership and promulgate the constitution will "never come true".
He said that the call of the hour is to garner political consensus for the timely drafting of the constitution than to engage in petty disputes.
But the Maoists are more eager to form a government under their leadership than focus on the important task of promulgating the constitution within the stipulated time, Mahato added.
PLA fighters fate is balance as AISC meet put off
KATHMANDU: The meeting of the Army Integration Special Committee scheduled for today has been postponed to April 14.The meeting was postponed due to the busy schedules of the top leaders and the rumours of yesterday’s bandh, stated Nepali Congress leader Dr. Prakash Saran Mahat.
Earlier the Maoists had called a nationwide bandh to oppose the Machine Readable Passport deal with India. Later they called off the bandh after yesterday’s cabinet meet decided to cancel the MRP deal with India.Top leaders of the six political parties representing the committee are scheduled to participate in the meeting.The meeting is scheduled to discuss the number and criteria of the PLA fighters, among the party leaders.The leaders, who are members of the committee, were also scheduled to inform about the activities of the committee to date.
The meeting of the committee on Friday had failed to reach any agreement on the issues surrounding the army integration.
Earlier the Maoists had called a nationwide bandh to oppose the Machine Readable Passport deal with India. Later they called off the bandh after yesterday’s cabinet meet decided to cancel the MRP deal with India.Top leaders of the six political parties representing the committee are scheduled to participate in the meeting.The meeting is scheduled to discuss the number and criteria of the PLA fighters, among the party leaders.The leaders, who are members of the committee, were also scheduled to inform about the activities of the committee to date.
The meeting of the committee on Friday had failed to reach any agreement on the issues surrounding the army integration.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Govt cancels MRP deal, Maoists withdraw bandh
KATHMANDU: The cabinet meeting held Sunday evening has decided to cancel the contract to print the Machine Readable Passports (MRPs) awarded to India, said Shanker Pokharel, the Minister for Information and Communication.
The meeting, which convened at the prime ministerial residence in Baluwatar, unanimously repealed its controversial decision on the MRPs that the government had made last month. Instead, it has decided to select a supplier through a competitive bidding procedure, informed Pokharel, who is also the spokesperson of the government.
The government had awarded the contract to print MRPs to India last month. The Supreme Court (SC) issued an interim order staying the government decision on April 7.Meanwhile, the UCPN-Maoist has withdrawn its nationwide shutdown that the party had called for Monday.
The Maoists had earlier called the general strike protesting the government decision to award the MRP contract to India, saying the deal would be detrimental to the country's national security.
The Cabinet meeting held earlier in the evening, which DPM Sujata Koirala did not attend, had agreed to sit later to take decision on the MRP deal. DPM Koirala was one of the vocal proponents of the deal with India.
The meeting, which convened at the prime ministerial residence in Baluwatar, unanimously repealed its controversial decision on the MRPs that the government had made last month. Instead, it has decided to select a supplier through a competitive bidding procedure, informed Pokharel, who is also the spokesperson of the government.
The government had awarded the contract to print MRPs to India last month. The Supreme Court (SC) issued an interim order staying the government decision on April 7.Meanwhile, the UCPN-Maoist has withdrawn its nationwide shutdown that the party had called for Monday.
The Maoists had earlier called the general strike protesting the government decision to award the MRP contract to India, saying the deal would be detrimental to the country's national security.
The Cabinet meeting held earlier in the evening, which DPM Sujata Koirala did not attend, had agreed to sit later to take decision on the MRP deal. DPM Koirala was one of the vocal proponents of the deal with India.
Sujata no-show in cabinet meet on MRPs deal
KATHMANDU: A vocal proponent of awarding the MRPs contract to India, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sujata Koirala was conspicuous by her absence in Sunday’s cabinet meeting.
The meeting, the first after the Supreme Court’s ruling not to implement the decision on awarding the contract, is scheduled to convene later in the evening to discuss the issue and come up with a decision.
Earlier today, the CPN-UML Parliamentary Party urged the government to repeal its decision to award the MRPs contract to India.The government had awarded the contract to print MRPs to India last month. The Supreme Court (SC) issued an order staying the government decision on April 7.
The meeting, the first after the Supreme Court’s ruling not to implement the decision on awarding the contract, is scheduled to convene later in the evening to discuss the issue and come up with a decision.
Earlier today, the CPN-UML Parliamentary Party urged the government to repeal its decision to award the MRPs contract to India.The government had awarded the contract to print MRPs to India last month. The Supreme Court (SC) issued an order staying the government decision on April 7.
Six killed in Makwanpur accident
Six persons have been killed and almost two dozen others injured in a road accident at Chaudhamile of Manahari, Makwanpur, this morning.
The accident occurred when a bus numbered Na 2 Kha 3348 en route Kathmandu to Sindhuli hit a parked truck numbered Na 3 Kha 4313 from behind. Both the truck and the bus skidded off the road after the collision.
Five persons died on the spot, while another died while undergoing treatment, according to the police. Sunila Adhikari, 21, a resident of Sindhuli was undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College, when she succumbed to her injuries.
Suraj Budathoki is another deceased. The rest of the deceased have not been identified.
The bus driver is absconding. Police have suspected, the accident could have occurred as the bus driver dozed off while driving.
Of the injured 8 of them are undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College and 8 of them are undergoing treatment at Bharatpur college. Others are undergoing treatment at Hetauda Hospital.
The accident occurred when a bus numbered Na 2 Kha 3348 en route Kathmandu to Sindhuli hit a parked truck numbered Na 3 Kha 4313 from behind. Both the truck and the bus skidded off the road after the collision.
Five persons died on the spot, while another died while undergoing treatment, according to the police. Sunila Adhikari, 21, a resident of Sindhuli was undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College, when she succumbed to her injuries.
Suraj Budathoki is another deceased. The rest of the deceased have not been identified.
The bus driver is absconding. Police have suspected, the accident could have occurred as the bus driver dozed off while driving.
Of the injured 8 of them are undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College and 8 of them are undergoing treatment at Bharatpur college. Others are undergoing treatment at Hetauda Hospital.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
DIG's house robbed
In a classic case of criminals outwitting the police officials, a Deputy Inspector General's house was robbed in the wee hours of Saturday morning in the capital.
Masked burglars broke into the house of DIG Biswa Raj Singh located at Budhanilkantha at around 2:00 am and made off with cash and valuables worth Rs 700,000.
Officials at Kathmandu Metropolitan Police Range, Hanumandhoka, said some four robbers broke into the house, took DIG Singh and his family members under control and got away with the loot.
There were four policemen stationed at Singh's house for security when the robbery took place.
Few weeks earlier, Senior Superintendent Rana Bahadur Chand's house was robbed in the same area.
Masked burglars broke into the house of DIG Biswa Raj Singh located at Budhanilkantha at around 2:00 am and made off with cash and valuables worth Rs 700,000.
Officials at Kathmandu Metropolitan Police Range, Hanumandhoka, said some four robbers broke into the house, took DIG Singh and his family members under control and got away with the loot.
There were four policemen stationed at Singh's house for security when the robbery took place.
Few weeks earlier, Senior Superintendent Rana Bahadur Chand's house was robbed in the same area.
13-yr old to attempt Mt Everest
A Thirteen-year-old boy from California, USA, is set to make an attempt on the world's tallest peak, Mount Everest.
Jordan Romero, who is embarking on the Everest expedition on Sunday, will be the youngest mountaineer to scale the 8,848-meter tall Mt Everest, if he is successful in his attempt.
"I am hoping to change that by doing what I do -- climbing and motivational speaking. I want to motivate children and inspire them to get outdoors," CNN quoted him as saying. "I am doing this a little for myself too, to do something big," he further said.
"I have been exercising hard, concentrating on cardio training and endurance training," Jordan said, "I have been sleeping in an altitude simulator tent for the past month to get my lungs ready."
However, it was not immediately clear if Romero will be able to start his Everest mission due to a decision of the Nepal government, taken some time ago, to prevent mountaineers below 15 years from climbing the peaks
Jordan Romero, who is embarking on the Everest expedition on Sunday, will be the youngest mountaineer to scale the 8,848-meter tall Mt Everest, if he is successful in his attempt.
"I am hoping to change that by doing what I do -- climbing and motivational speaking. I want to motivate children and inspire them to get outdoors," CNN quoted him as saying. "I am doing this a little for myself too, to do something big," he further said.
"I have been exercising hard, concentrating on cardio training and endurance training," Jordan said, "I have been sleeping in an altitude simulator tent for the past month to get my lungs ready."
However, it was not immediately clear if Romero will be able to start his Everest mission due to a decision of the Nepal government, taken some time ago, to prevent mountaineers below 15 years from climbing the peaks
Govt won't change until statute promulgation: Pokharel
KATHMANDU: Minister for Information and Communication Shankar Pokharel on Saturday said that there is no possibility of change in the government led by CPN-UML.
Unveiling the statue of late noted singer Arun Thapa at Jhamsikhel of Lalitpur minister Pokharel who also spokesperson of the government said, "There will be no change in the guard of the government before the promulgation of the statute."
Pokharel said that the government is making every effort to end the ongoing political impasse by holding talks with the political parties.
Saying the incumbent government has several challenges, the minister said that the government is ready to face them.
He claimed that the government is not a failure as alleged by the opposition parties and some leaders of CPN-UML
Unveiling the statue of late noted singer Arun Thapa at Jhamsikhel of Lalitpur minister Pokharel who also spokesperson of the government said, "There will be no change in the guard of the government before the promulgation of the statute."
Pokharel said that the government is making every effort to end the ongoing political impasse by holding talks with the political parties.
Saying the incumbent government has several challenges, the minister said that the government is ready to face them.
He claimed that the government is not a failure as alleged by the opposition parties and some leaders of CPN-UML
Five killed, 30 injured in Sunsari bus accident
Five persons were killed and 30 others injured when a passenger bus coming from Kakarbhitta to Janakpur met with an accident, Saturday morning.
The bus numbered Me 1 Kha 912 fell some 60 metres off the road from Koshi barrage section of the east-west highway at about 9.30 am, Saturday.
Shailendra Chaudhary and Saiyad Miya are among the deceased. The other deceased are yet to be identified.
16 of the 30 injured are in critical condition, according to the police.
They are undergoing treatment at BP Koirala Institute of Health Science, Dharan.
Others are being treated at Sunsari Hospital.
The bus numbered Me 1 Kha 912 fell some 60 metres off the road from Koshi barrage section of the east-west highway at about 9.30 am, Saturday.
Shailendra Chaudhary and Saiyad Miya are among the deceased. The other deceased are yet to be identified.
16 of the 30 injured are in critical condition, according to the police.
They are undergoing treatment at BP Koirala Institute of Health Science, Dharan.
Others are being treated at Sunsari Hospital.
Friday, April 9, 2010
PAC again directs govt to re-tender MRP deal
Public Account Committee (PAC) under the legislature parliament has again directed the government to finalise the Machine Readable Passport (MRP) printing contract through standard bidding procedures.
The PAC meeting held Friday gave the direction to the government to follow existing laws and Public Procurement Act while lending the contract.
The committee also termed the government's decision to award the contract to India by ignoring PAC's direction as unfortunate. The committee also recommended investigation into the foreign ministry's delaying tactics on MRP printing contract procedures.
The cabinet had asked the ministry to initiate MRP printing procedures five years ago. However, the ministry floated tender only in December 1. In response to a letter by Indian ambassador to foreign minister Sujata Koirala on December 4, the government cancelled the tender procedures on December 14 citing technical reasons. Later the cabinet lent the contract to Indian company without bidding.
The PAC on Thursday had remained divided over the issue. Even after hours of deliberations, the committee failed to come to a conclusion for framing strategies against government's ignorance to its directive on MRP deal.
In all other deliberations in the past, the committee members remained united against lending printing contract to Indian company. The committee repeatedly asked the government to open tender for MRP contract.
The PAC meeting held Friday gave the direction to the government to follow existing laws and Public Procurement Act while lending the contract.
The committee also termed the government's decision to award the contract to India by ignoring PAC's direction as unfortunate. The committee also recommended investigation into the foreign ministry's delaying tactics on MRP printing contract procedures.
The cabinet had asked the ministry to initiate MRP printing procedures five years ago. However, the ministry floated tender only in December 1. In response to a letter by Indian ambassador to foreign minister Sujata Koirala on December 4, the government cancelled the tender procedures on December 14 citing technical reasons. Later the cabinet lent the contract to Indian company without bidding.
The PAC on Thursday had remained divided over the issue. Even after hours of deliberations, the committee failed to come to a conclusion for framing strategies against government's ignorance to its directive on MRP deal.
In all other deliberations in the past, the committee members remained united against lending printing contract to Indian company. The committee repeatedly asked the government to open tender for MRP contract.
Nepal goes down against Afghanistan in ACC finals
Nepal suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Afghanistan in the final match of the ACC Trophy Elite 2010 tournament.
Chasing a moderate target of 225 runs set by Afghanistan in the match played at Hubara cricket ground, Kuwait on Friday, Nepal only managed to put up 129 runs with the loss of all its wickets as its batting lineup completely collapsed under relentless attack by Afghanistan bowlers.
Only Gyanendra Malla with his 30 off 43 balls and Sharad Veshwakar with his fighting 35 runs offered some resistance to Afghanistan's marvelous performance in the game.
Earlier, Nepal chose to field after winning the toss. Afghanistan was bowled out in the last over in the 50-over match. Binod Das took three wickets for Nepal while Paras Khadka and Rahul BK contributed with two wickets each.
For Afghanistan, K. Sadiq made 58 runs, R. Ahmadzai 52 and M. Nabi added 48 runs.
Nepal had been in excellent form in the tournament. It beat Malaysia to enter the final of the tournament on Wednesday.This is the second defeat Nepal has suffered in the final of the ACC Trophy Elite tournament. In 2002, it had tasted defeat at the hands of UAE in the final match.
Chasing a moderate target of 225 runs set by Afghanistan in the match played at Hubara cricket ground, Kuwait on Friday, Nepal only managed to put up 129 runs with the loss of all its wickets as its batting lineup completely collapsed under relentless attack by Afghanistan bowlers.
Only Gyanendra Malla with his 30 off 43 balls and Sharad Veshwakar with his fighting 35 runs offered some resistance to Afghanistan's marvelous performance in the game.
Earlier, Nepal chose to field after winning the toss. Afghanistan was bowled out in the last over in the 50-over match. Binod Das took three wickets for Nepal while Paras Khadka and Rahul BK contributed with two wickets each.
For Afghanistan, K. Sadiq made 58 runs, R. Ahmadzai 52 and M. Nabi added 48 runs.
Nepal had been in excellent form in the tournament. It beat Malaysia to enter the final of the tournament on Wednesday.This is the second defeat Nepal has suffered in the final of the ACC Trophy Elite tournament. In 2002, it had tasted defeat at the hands of UAE in the final match.
NC ends suspense on GC, leadership
KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress Central Working Committee (CWC) decided to hold the party's 12th General Convention (GC) on August 26 to 30 in Kathmandu. The CWC meeting held at the party headquarters in Sanepa took the decision amid disputes and wrangling among the party leaders.
Meanwhile, NC also resolved the disputes related to the leadership hierarchy among the party leaders. According to the new party hierarchy, NC acting president Sushil Koirala will be the third in seniority with establishment leader Krishna Prasad Bhattarai accorded the senior most position followed by Sher Bahadur Deuba as per the agreement at time of unification.
However, Koirala will remain as acting NC president till the GC.
The CWC meeting also directed the leaders to end the disputes in the party’s eight district committees within the second week of May. Parallel NC district bodies are still functioning despite the party's unification about two and half years ago.
Meanwhile, NC also resolved the disputes related to the leadership hierarchy among the party leaders. According to the new party hierarchy, NC acting president Sushil Koirala will be the third in seniority with establishment leader Krishna Prasad Bhattarai accorded the senior most position followed by Sher Bahadur Deuba as per the agreement at time of unification.
However, Koirala will remain as acting NC president till the GC.
The CWC meeting also directed the leaders to end the disputes in the party’s eight district committees within the second week of May. Parallel NC district bodies are still functioning despite the party's unification about two and half years ago.
Popular columnist found dead inside hotel
Senior journalist Bharat Bhurtel, who was mostly known for his political satires, was found dead at Pashupati Guest House in Gaushala of the capital on Friday.
Police suspect Bhurtel committed suicide as he was found hanging in the bathroom of room no 301 of the guest house at 2 pm today.
The owner of Pashupati Guest House had contacted the police after Bhurtel didn't come out of the guest house since Wednesday. He had been staying at the hotel since the last three days.
He had recently finished writing a biography on President Dr Ram Baran Yadav and had passed it on for publication.
Police said Bhurtel's body has been sent for post-mortem.
Bhurtel was a former editorial-advisor for Kantipur publication's Nepal Weekly and had been writing a popular satirical column titled 'Charit Charcha' where he mostly lampooned the politicians and the political parties
Police suspect Bhurtel committed suicide as he was found hanging in the bathroom of room no 301 of the guest house at 2 pm today.
The owner of Pashupati Guest House had contacted the police after Bhurtel didn't come out of the guest house since Wednesday. He had been staying at the hotel since the last three days.
He had recently finished writing a biography on President Dr Ram Baran Yadav and had passed it on for publication.
Police said Bhurtel's body has been sent for post-mortem.
Bhurtel was a former editorial-advisor for Kantipur publication's Nepal Weekly and had been writing a popular satirical column titled 'Charit Charcha' where he mostly lampooned the politicians and the political parties
Thursday, April 8, 2010
MJF bandh affects normal life in Terai
A bandh called by Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (MJF) led by Upendra Yadav has marred normal life in various districts in Terai, Thursday.
Highways have been obstructed due to which buses plying on long routes as well as short routes along with private vehicles have remained off the road.
Major market places have remained closed and some private offices and factories have been closed.
MJF cadres have staged demonstration in various places of Biratnagar, Siraha, Saptari, Rautahat, Banke, and Bardiya among other Terai districts.
Large number of security personnel have been deployed on the streets. Clashes are likely to occur later today as MJF also plans to shut down the governmnet offices.
Normally, government offices do not close and the government employees are given strict instructions to attend office on the days of bandh.
MJF called a bandh in the Terai districts today demanding for the implementation of the agreement of Madhes based parties with the government two years ago.
Highways have been obstructed due to which buses plying on long routes as well as short routes along with private vehicles have remained off the road.
Major market places have remained closed and some private offices and factories have been closed.
MJF cadres have staged demonstration in various places of Biratnagar, Siraha, Saptari, Rautahat, Banke, and Bardiya among other Terai districts.
Large number of security personnel have been deployed on the streets. Clashes are likely to occur later today as MJF also plans to shut down the governmnet offices.
Normally, government offices do not close and the government employees are given strict instructions to attend office on the days of bandh.
MJF called a bandh in the Terai districts today demanding for the implementation of the agreement of Madhes based parties with the government two years ago.
Truck plunges into Trishuli; 5 killed, 7 injured
A truck numbered Lu 1 Kha 5058 plunged into Trishuli river from Prithvi Highway in Darechok VDC of Chitwan, Thursday morning. Five persons have died and seven others are injured.
Among the deceased, only Kailashi Pattharkoti, 35, resident of Gajehada, Kapilvastu has been identified. She died while undergoing treatment at Bharatpur Hospital.
The other four died on the spot and have not been identified yet. They include the truck driver, his helper and two minors.
The injured include Anarkali Pattharkatti, 25, Surati Pattharkatti, 55, Samjhana Pattharkatti, 10 and Rajan Pattharkatti, 8. They are undergoing treatment at Bharatpur hospital.
The truck going towards Chitwan from Kathmandu fell into the banks of Trishuli after the driver lost control at about 3 am, Thursday, police said
Among the deceased, only Kailashi Pattharkoti, 35, resident of Gajehada, Kapilvastu has been identified. She died while undergoing treatment at Bharatpur Hospital.
The other four died on the spot and have not been identified yet. They include the truck driver, his helper and two minors.
The injured include Anarkali Pattharkatti, 25, Surati Pattharkatti, 55, Samjhana Pattharkatti, 10 and Rajan Pattharkatti, 8. They are undergoing treatment at Bharatpur hospital.
The truck going towards Chitwan from Kathmandu fell into the banks of Trishuli after the driver lost control at about 3 am, Thursday, police said
Humla curfew lifted as NC-Maoists make peace
SIMKOT: A curfew which was imposed in the district headquarters of Humla yesterday was lifted on Thursday.
The curfew was withdrawn with a six-point agreement between the Nepali Congress and UCPN-Maoist.
Yesterday the NC activists called the Simikot bandh against the Maoist vandalism in the Nepali Congress district office on Tuesday.Tension had gripped the district yesterday when the Maoist cadres tried to defy the bandh using force.
The curfew was withdrawn with a six-point agreement between the Nepali Congress and UCPN-Maoist.
Yesterday the NC activists called the Simikot bandh against the Maoist vandalism in the Nepali Congress district office on Tuesday.Tension had gripped the district yesterday when the Maoist cadres tried to defy the bandh using force.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
UML chairman hints at govt change
CPN (UML) chairman Jhalanath Khanal has again expressed his support for changing the current coalition government led by his own party. However, he mentioned that the new constitution will be promulgated by current government, hinting that the government change might take place only after promulgation of the statute.
Khanal told journalists in Dharan Wednesday that his party was ready for sacrifice if that meant forging national consensus to ensure that peace process concludes and a new constitution is promulgated by May 28 deadline.
He further said the new constitution would be promulgated on time forging consensus with Nepali Congress and Unified CPN-Maoist.
He called on all parties to rise above partisan interests for timely statute, in the absence of which the country will convulse into instability.
In another context, Khanal said he was going to hold talks with his party's vice chairman Bam Dev Gautam, who is allegedly threatening to split the party. Gautam is leading a section of the party against the current coalition government.
Khanal told journalists in Dharan Wednesday that his party was ready for sacrifice if that meant forging national consensus to ensure that peace process concludes and a new constitution is promulgated by May 28 deadline.
He further said the new constitution would be promulgated on time forging consensus with Nepali Congress and Unified CPN-Maoist.
He called on all parties to rise above partisan interests for timely statute, in the absence of which the country will convulse into instability.
In another context, Khanal said he was going to hold talks with his party's vice chairman Bam Dev Gautam, who is allegedly threatening to split the party. Gautam is leading a section of the party against the current coalition government.
Nepal edges Malaysia in nail biter for final
KATHMANDU: Nepal charged into the final of the ongoing ACC Trophy Elite 2010 in Kuwait on Wednesday. Nepal set up the final clash on Saturday against Afghanistan after defeating Malaysia by a mere 8 runs in the nail-biting semifinal match held at Hubara Cricket Ground.
Nepal bowled out the Malaysia for 263 in 49.4 overs. Nepali bowlers Paras Khadka took two wickets for 42 runs whereas Sanjam Regmi got two wickets for 60 runs.
In Malaysia's innings Suresh scored a century with 115 runs whereas Sohan made 70 runs and Shafiq scored 31 runs.
Earlier, losing the toss and having to bat first, Nepal scored 271/6 where Sharad Veswakar was top scorer with 97 runs not out, while Shakti Gauchan completed his half century with 52 runs. Gyanendra Malla scored 49 runs, Mahesh Chhetri contributed 43 runs and Dipendra Chaudhary got 14 runs.
In the other semifinal, Afghanistan beat Hong Kong by five wickets. Earlier Hong Kong scored 205 in 48.1 overs losing all the wickets. In response Afghanistan achieved the victory target in the 44th over losing just five wickets.
Nepal bowled out the Malaysia for 263 in 49.4 overs. Nepali bowlers Paras Khadka took two wickets for 42 runs whereas Sanjam Regmi got two wickets for 60 runs.
In Malaysia's innings Suresh scored a century with 115 runs whereas Sohan made 70 runs and Shafiq scored 31 runs.
Earlier, losing the toss and having to bat first, Nepal scored 271/6 where Sharad Veswakar was top scorer with 97 runs not out, while Shakti Gauchan completed his half century with 52 runs. Gyanendra Malla scored 49 runs, Mahesh Chhetri contributed 43 runs and Dipendra Chaudhary got 14 runs.
In the other semifinal, Afghanistan beat Hong Kong by five wickets. Earlier Hong Kong scored 205 in 48.1 overs losing all the wickets. In response Afghanistan achieved the victory target in the 44th over losing just five wickets.
Fire guts kitchen in Jamim Shah house
KATHMANDU: A fire broke out on Wednesday in the house of the late Jamim Shah, former chairman of Space Time Network Pvt Ltd and Channel Nepal Television, who was killed in a shootout in broad daylight on February 7.
Due to the blaze the kitchen has been destroyed. It is reported that the fire was brought under control before a fire engine reached the spot.
According to the police gas leakage from an LPG cylinder was the cause for the blaze.
Due to the blaze the kitchen has been destroyed. It is reported that the fire was brought under control before a fire engine reached the spot.
According to the police gas leakage from an LPG cylinder was the cause for the blaze.
Indefinite curfew in Simikot after clashes between Maoist and NC cadres
The district administration office of Humla has declared indefinite curfew in the district headquarters Simikot and surrounding areas from 12:00 Wednesday noon following violent clashes between the cadres of Nepali Congress and Unified CPN (Maoists).
Clashes started following a dispute over money-lending between a NC cadre and a Maoist, reports said.
The protesting cadres of NC and UCPN (M) vandalised each other's party offices.
Hundreds of cadres of the two parties staged angry protests, brandishing kukuris and batons in Simikot. Before the curfew orders, the NC cadres had shut down marketplaces, protesting the 'Maoist attack' on their cadres
Clashes started following a dispute over money-lending between a NC cadre and a Maoist, reports said.
The protesting cadres of NC and UCPN (M) vandalised each other's party offices.
Hundreds of cadres of the two parties staged angry protests, brandishing kukuris and batons in Simikot. Before the curfew orders, the NC cadres had shut down marketplaces, protesting the 'Maoist attack' on their cadres
World cyclist Pushkar Shah sets out to scale Mt Everest for world peace
Adventurer Pushkar Shah, who gained national and international acclaim for riding around the world on a bicycle, has set out on yet another expedition on Wednesday.
With a team comprising of eleven people, Shah is attempting to climb Mt Everest, the world's tallest mountain, for what he call his "mission for world peace".
President Dr Ram Baran Yadav handed over the national flag of Nepal to Shah for his Everest expedition at Shital Niwas, the President's office, amid a program today morning.
He wished Shah and his team good luck for the expedition titled "Everest Peace Expedition 2010" and bid them farewell.
Similarly, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Sharat Singh Bhandari also handed over the national flag of Nepal with the logo of Nepal Tourism Year 2011 to Shah and wished him success in his maiden attempt to climb Mt Everest.
Shah, who is also known as 'world cyclist', said he will take the flags of all 151 countries that he traveled to during the last 11 years to the top of the world and pray for lasting peace and harmony in the world.
His expedition team is expected to reach the Everest Base Camp in couple of days.
After getting a snub from Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal when he asked for government's support for his expedition, Shah decided to sell off his belongings including his bicycle, souvenirs brought from various countries and the awards and certificates he has got to raise money for the expedition.
With a team comprising of eleven people, Shah is attempting to climb Mt Everest, the world's tallest mountain, for what he call his "mission for world peace".
President Dr Ram Baran Yadav handed over the national flag of Nepal to Shah for his Everest expedition at Shital Niwas, the President's office, amid a program today morning.
He wished Shah and his team good luck for the expedition titled "Everest Peace Expedition 2010" and bid them farewell.
Similarly, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Sharat Singh Bhandari also handed over the national flag of Nepal with the logo of Nepal Tourism Year 2011 to Shah and wished him success in his maiden attempt to climb Mt Everest.
Shah, who is also known as 'world cyclist', said he will take the flags of all 151 countries that he traveled to during the last 11 years to the top of the world and pray for lasting peace and harmony in the world.
His expedition team is expected to reach the Everest Base Camp in couple of days.
After getting a snub from Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal when he asked for government's support for his expedition, Shah decided to sell off his belongings including his bicycle, souvenirs brought from various countries and the awards and certificates he has got to raise money for the expedition.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Nepal's winning streak continues; thrashes Kuwait by 8 wickets
Nepal registered its third consecutive win in the ACC Elite Trophy 2010 cricket tournament, hammering Kuwait by 8 wickets on Tuesday.
With the win, Nepal has topped group A and entered Wednesday's semifinals.
In the match played at KOC Hubara, Kuwait, Nepali cricketers displayed an excellent bowling performance as they wrapped up Kuwait in just 120 runs. Ace spinner Sanjam Regmi took four wickets while Binod Das claimed three and Mehboob Alam grabbed two wickets.
In reply to Kuwait's modest total, Mahesh Chhettri made 63 runs as Nepal lost just two wickets to reach the target .
With the win, Nepal has topped group A and entered Wednesday's semifinals.
In the match played at KOC Hubara, Kuwait, Nepali cricketers displayed an excellent bowling performance as they wrapped up Kuwait in just 120 runs. Ace spinner Sanjam Regmi took four wickets while Binod Das claimed three and Mehboob Alam grabbed two wickets.
In reply to Kuwait's modest total, Mahesh Chhettri made 63 runs as Nepal lost just two wickets to reach the target .
Foreign ministry to issue hand-written passports for emergency purposes
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which had stopped issuing passports from April 1 due to the unavailability of Machine-Readable Passports (MRP)s, has decided to issue hand-written passports for emergency purposes until the MRPs arrive.
According to Chief of Protocol at the foreign ministry Mohan Krishna Shrestha, the ministry will issue the same passports issued before April 1 with a stamp marked "Non-Machine Readable" to those who need to go abroad urgently for treatment, employment or other purposes.
Such passports can be taken from the foreign ministry and Nepali diplomatic missions abroad. The District Administration Offices cannot issue such passports. The passports will also be valid till 2015.
Foreign ministry has written to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requesting it to inform its member nations about Nepal's contingency plans. ICAO has not replied yet.
According to Chief of Protocol at the foreign ministry Mohan Krishna Shrestha, the ministry will issue the same passports issued before April 1 with a stamp marked "Non-Machine Readable" to those who need to go abroad urgently for treatment, employment or other purposes.
Such passports can be taken from the foreign ministry and Nepali diplomatic missions abroad. The District Administration Offices cannot issue such passports. The passports will also be valid till 2015.
Foreign ministry has written to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requesting it to inform its member nations about Nepal's contingency plans. ICAO has not replied yet.
One Madesh, One Pradesh must: Mahato
ITAHARI: Rajendra Mahato, Minister for Commerce and Supplies and chairman of Nepal Sadbhawana Party stressed the need for incorporating one Madhes and one province in the new constitution.
Addressing journalists in Itahari, Sundari, he added that the new nation would disintegrate if the new constitution failed to ensure the demand of the Madhesis of One Madhes, One Province.
He warned of an armed agitation if their demands were not met in the new constitution
Addressing journalists in Itahari, Sundari, he added that the new nation would disintegrate if the new constitution failed to ensure the demand of the Madhesis of One Madhes, One Province.
He warned of an armed agitation if their demands were not met in the new constitution
Indian Maoists massacre 73 security men in their biggest attack
In their deadliest attack, Maoists in India, also known as Naxalites, have killed at least 73 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Dantewada district of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday.
The attack took place when the forces consisting of around 120 personnel were returning to their base camp on Tuesday morning when the Naxalite guerrillas ambushed the troopers of 62nd battalion, reports said.
The attack took place in the dense jungles of the remote Dantewade district, an area inhabited by impoverished indigenous people, where the rebels have established their stronghold, news reports said.
"We have confirmation of 73 deaths in the attack. At least two dozen have been injured," Reuters quoted Amresh Mishra, a senior police officer, as saying.
The ambush of the highly trained CRPF troop marks the deadliest attack yet by Maoist rebels against security forces.
Meanwhile, P. Chidambaram, India's home minister, said he was "deeply shocked" by the toll in the Maoist attack.
"Something has gone very wrong," he told journalists in New Delhi. "They seem to have walked into a trap set by the Naxalites." He added that the ambush "shows the savage nature of the CPI-Maoists, their brutality, and the savagery, which they are capable of".
Authorities said the death toll may rise further, that rescue efforts were being hampered by the difficult terrain, and that rebels had also dug up the roads leading into the area.
The attack comes a few days after Maoist rebels killed 11 CRPF personnel in the forested Koraput district of mineral-rich Orissa state and two months after they killed 24 state police officers in West Bengal after overrunning a poorly guarded police camp, reports said
The attack took place when the forces consisting of around 120 personnel were returning to their base camp on Tuesday morning when the Naxalite guerrillas ambushed the troopers of 62nd battalion, reports said.
The attack took place in the dense jungles of the remote Dantewade district, an area inhabited by impoverished indigenous people, where the rebels have established their stronghold, news reports said.
"We have confirmation of 73 deaths in the attack. At least two dozen have been injured," Reuters quoted Amresh Mishra, a senior police officer, as saying.
The ambush of the highly trained CRPF troop marks the deadliest attack yet by Maoist rebels against security forces.
Meanwhile, P. Chidambaram, India's home minister, said he was "deeply shocked" by the toll in the Maoist attack.
"Something has gone very wrong," he told journalists in New Delhi. "They seem to have walked into a trap set by the Naxalites." He added that the ambush "shows the savage nature of the CPI-Maoists, their brutality, and the savagery, which they are capable of".
Authorities said the death toll may rise further, that rescue efforts were being hampered by the difficult terrain, and that rebels had also dug up the roads leading into the area.
The attack comes a few days after Maoist rebels killed 11 CRPF personnel in the forested Koraput district of mineral-rich Orissa state and two months after they killed 24 state police officers in West Bengal after overrunning a poorly guarded police camp, reports said
Monday, April 5, 2010
CPN (Unifified) calls off Tuesday's bandh
Ram Singh Shris-led CPN (Unified) has called off its bandh (shutdown strike) in the Kathmandu Valley in view of the rallies planned by Unified CPN (Maoist) on Tuesday.
The CPN (Unified) had announced bandh to create pressure for timely drafting of the constitution and to 'warn' other parties against compromising on nationality.
A faction of this fringe communist party, led by Nabaraj Subedi, had announced its merger with UCPN (Maoist), on Saturday
The CPN (Unified) had announced bandh to create pressure for timely drafting of the constitution and to 'warn' other parties against compromising on nationality.
A faction of this fringe communist party, led by Nabaraj Subedi, had announced its merger with UCPN (Maoist), on Saturday
Mahato threatens to quit govt
At a time when Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal is facing heightened pressure from the main opposition UCPN (Maoist) as well as his own party, CPN UML, supply minister Rajendra Mahato, the chairman of Sadbhawana Party, has threatened to quit the coalition if the agreement reached between the government and the then agitating Madhesi parties is not implemented at the earliest.
Speaking to reporters in Biratnagar Monday, Mahato said his party might quit the government and launch agitations to build pressure for implementation of the 8-point agreement between the government and the United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF), an alliance of the agitating Madhesi parties, if the government failed start work in this direction right away.
The agreement included creation of 'Madhesh Autonomous region' and compensation to the families of those killed during the 'Madhesh movement' and the injured activists.
The Sadbhawana chief also accused the three major parties - UCPN (Maoist), Nepali Congress and UML - of not being ready to guarantee the rights of the Madhesi people.
Mahato also disapproved the idea of issuing a brief constitution, emphasising that a full-fledged constitution should be promulgated by May 28
Speaking to reporters in Biratnagar Monday, Mahato said his party might quit the government and launch agitations to build pressure for implementation of the 8-point agreement between the government and the United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF), an alliance of the agitating Madhesi parties, if the government failed start work in this direction right away.
The agreement included creation of 'Madhesh Autonomous region' and compensation to the families of those killed during the 'Madhesh movement' and the injured activists.
The Sadbhawana chief also accused the three major parties - UCPN (Maoist), Nepali Congress and UML - of not being ready to guarantee the rights of the Madhesi people.
Mahato also disapproved the idea of issuing a brief constitution, emphasising that a full-fledged constitution should be promulgated by May 28
Sujata for collective leadership in NC
Deputy prime minister and Nepali Congress leader Sujata Koirala has said the three senior leaders of her party are competent to lead the party in the absence of Girija Prasad Koirala.
During an interaction with journalists in the capital on Monday, Koirala said the NC should have collective leadership and that the leaders should be guided by principle of consensus and cooperation, as envisioned by Late GP Koirala, to lead the party in the right direction.
Acting president Shushil Koirala, senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba and vice president Ram Chandra Poudel, who is also the parliamentary party leader, have been claiming party leadership after the demise of party president GP Koirala.
In another context, Sujata said the parties have no alternatives to forge consensus to ensure that country gets a new statute within May 28 deadline. Widening differences only invite instability in the country, she added.
She refused to comment on the possibility of the change in government leadership as well as the interrogation by Public Account Committee (PAC) of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal regarding the Machine Readable Passport (MRP) contract to India without bidding
During an interaction with journalists in the capital on Monday, Koirala said the NC should have collective leadership and that the leaders should be guided by principle of consensus and cooperation, as envisioned by Late GP Koirala, to lead the party in the right direction.
Acting president Shushil Koirala, senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba and vice president Ram Chandra Poudel, who is also the parliamentary party leader, have been claiming party leadership after the demise of party president GP Koirala.
In another context, Sujata said the parties have no alternatives to forge consensus to ensure that country gets a new statute within May 28 deadline. Widening differences only invite instability in the country, she added.
She refused to comment on the possibility of the change in government leadership as well as the interrogation by Public Account Committee (PAC) of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal regarding the Machine Readable Passport (MRP) contract to India without bidding
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