The Royal Nepalese Army launched massive air raids against the Maoists at Thapachour area of Jajarkot on Monday evening, reports quoting security sources said Tuesday. The raid was targeted at a mass meeting of the militants.

The program in which Dr Baburam Bhattrai, a key Maoist leader and some other central committee members are believed to have attended was organized to announce the Bheri-Karnali Autonomous Government.

According to reports, the Western Pritana (army division) of the RNA has confirmed that air bombings were done at the area but has not given details of the casualties. It is feared that dozens might have been killed.

The Maoists had forced thousands of locals to join in the program where a number of journalists and rights activists had also participated.

Upon calling the Directorate of Public Relations, RNA headquarters, the official confirmed there was helicopter activity in the area, but did not give further details.