Govt. offices, diplomatic missions remain closed; TV stations drop entertainment programmes

September 2, 2004
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As the country mourns the death of 12 Nepalis killed in Iraq Thursday,
government offices, academic institutions and diplomatic missions
 abroad remain closed. The triangular national flag flies at half-mast at the government offices as per the government’s decision.

Government as well as private radio and television stations have dropped their regular entertainment programmes Thursday and have been playing patriotic and national songs. Some stations have also appealed people to remain united during the hour of crisis and not be swayed out of emotions.

Meanwhile, leaders of major political parties urged people for calm and restraint during an interaction programme Thursday. Leaders of Nepali Congress, Nepali Congress (Democratic), CPN (UML), among others, urged people to maintain peace and harmony in the society.

Opposition leaders criticized the government for what they said its diplomatic failure in dealing with the hostage crisis. They also termed Wednesday’s violent protests as part of a broader conspiracy. They did not elaborate.

Reporters Club of Nepal had organized the interaction programme when the curfew was relaxed for a few hours Thursday morning.