KATHMANDU:  Maoist rebels have abducted about 500 teachers and students from 76 schools in different villages of the Jajarkot district, a daily said Tuesday.

According to Nepal Samacharpatra, the rebels reportedly abducted the  teachers and students to give them a brief education on Maoist  literature and principles. They are likely to be forced to participate in the ‘people’s march.’

Before taking the students and teachers, the rebels had promised to  return them within two weeks. Earlier, the Maoists had issued a warning, saying those who refuse to  participate in their march campaign will be fined Rs 20,000 and held  prisoner for up to six months.