Police arrest dozens of protesters in Kathmandu and Banepa

January 26, 2006
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Police have arrested dozens of activists affiliated to the seven party alliance as they were trying to enforce `Nepal bandh’ (the nationwide day-long shutdown strike) in the capital, Kathmandu, and Banepa, among others.

Despite arrest, opposition supporters are taking out rallies in various parts of the capital. There are reports of clashes between the activists and police. Police said the protesters have damaged over half a dozen vehicles that were plying on the roads.

Security has been tightened in view of possible violence, officials said.

Over three dozen activists including former MP and president of Nepali Congress Kavre district unit, Shiva Humagai, have been arrested in Banepa today while they were carrying out protests.

The protestors have been demanding the unconditional release of their detained leaders and restoration of democracy and civil liberties, among others.

They are also calling boycott of municipal polls slated on February 8.

Meanwhile, nominations for the post of Mayor and other office bearers have begun the municipalities around the country. Around half a dozen people have filed their nominations for various posts in Kathmandu.

By 1 p. m., only one person had filed his nomination for the post of chairman of ward no. 10 of Banepa municipality. Nobody has filed nomination in Bhaktapur so far.

Shops are totally closed in Bhaktapur and no vehicles are plying on the roads, a resident of Bhaktapur told us over phone.