United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan has urged the King to take courageous step to resolve the present political impasse of the country.

“The Secretary General also urged King Gyanendra to take courageous steps to find a way out of the situation and avoid further bloodshed,” said, UN spokesman Stephanie Dujarric during the daily press briefing in New York on Friday

He further said Annan, expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Nepal, particularly the absence of any movement towards a political solution.

The spokesman added, “Annan reiterates his call for an inclusive national dialogue of all Nepali political forces.”

“It is quite clear that the Nepali people want a swift end to the conflict and instability, and the immediate restoration of democracy. The loss of life and denial of legitimate rights should end without delay,” the spokesman said, according to the script posted at the UN’s official website on Saturday.

Hundreds of pro-democracy activists were injured and over one thousand held from anti-government demonstration organized by seven major opposition political parties. nepalnews.com pb Apr 15 06