Nepal
AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL
PRESS RELEASE
News Flash
AI Index: ASA 31/168/2004 (Public)
News Service No: 238
27 September 2004
Nepal: Boys feared 'disappeared' after release from prison
Two teenaged boys and a father are feared to have 'disappeared' after being rearrested on the very day they were due to be released from an illegal spell in prison.
"These are the latest in a string of cases of people being rearrested as soon as they are freed by the courts -- often the moment they step out of the courthouse," said Ingrid Massage, Asia director at Amnesty International. "Such rearrests seem to indicate an attempt by the security forces to undermine rulings against them by the courts. In order to stop torture, 'disappearances' and other human rights abuses the government must ensure an end to the power of the courts being eroded in this way."
Govinda Damai, 18, was seen by his prison guard being taken away by a group of security personnel yesterday evening. A court had found he was being detained illegally and ordered his release for 26 September.
Jimdar Kewat, 16, and his father Keshu Ram Kewat were meant to be freed on 19 September after a court found they were being held illegally. Their family and lawyers went to the prison that day but the guard had not yet received the court's release order. When they returned the next day the prison guard told them a team of police had already come to rearrest the two and had taken them away. The district police office denied knowledge of their detention.
Jimdar and Keshu Ram Kewat had been arrested in April when soldiers entered their house in the middle of the night, blindfolded them and took them away. They were kept blindfolded for four days and given no access to family, lawyers or doctors. They said their captors demanded information about the Maoists (the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist)), and beat the father and son with wooden sticks, gave them electric shocks and poured water over their noses to stop them breathing.
Sphere: Related Content
Thursday, September 30, 2004
deepikaglobal.com - US provides military hardware to Nepal
Kathmandu, Sept 30 (PTI)
The US has provided military hardware for the Nepalese police force as part of the anti-terror cooperation between the two countries.
A Bulgarian cargo aircraft carrying the consignment landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport yesterday evening after a stopover in Ahmedabad for refuelling, official sources said.
US Embassy spokeswoman Constance C. Jones said the consignment comprised anti-terror training equipment provided by the US government to Nepal police under its on-going security assistance to the Himalayan Kingdom.
She denied there were arms in the consignment as reported in a section of the media.
Meanwhile, a Russian manufactured MI-17 cargo helicopter purchased by the Nepal government to upgrade the capability of the Royal Nepal Army also arrived yesterday.
Sphere: Related Content
The US has provided military hardware for the Nepalese police force as part of the anti-terror cooperation between the two countries.
A Bulgarian cargo aircraft carrying the consignment landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport yesterday evening after a stopover in Ahmedabad for refuelling, official sources said.
US Embassy spokeswoman Constance C. Jones said the consignment comprised anti-terror training equipment provided by the US government to Nepal police under its on-going security assistance to the Himalayan Kingdom.
She denied there were arms in the consignment as reported in a section of the media.
Meanwhile, a Russian manufactured MI-17 cargo helicopter purchased by the Nepal government to upgrade the capability of the Royal Nepal Army also arrived yesterday.
Sphere: Related Content
Nepalnews. com :: Maoists hacked to death a district leader of the ruling Nepali Congress
Communist Maoists murdered a district leader of the ruling Nepali Congress (Democratic) in Morang district on Wednesday night, reports said Thursday.
Fagulal Ray, member of the No.3 Area Committee of the NC (D), who was abducted by a group of Maoists from his home at Dadar Bairia at around 9:00 p.m. was found dead this morning nearby his village.
The Maoist murderers had taken Ray away, blindfolded, pretending that they had something to discuss with him. He was hacked to death, reports quoting District Police Office in Biratnagar said.
Maoists have not yet explained the reason behind his killing.
nepalnews.com mbk Sept 30, 04 Sphere: Related Content
Fagulal Ray, member of the No.3 Area Committee of the NC (D), who was abducted by a group of Maoists from his home at Dadar Bairia at around 9:00 p.m. was found dead this morning nearby his village.
The Maoist murderers had taken Ray away, blindfolded, pretending that they had something to discuss with him. He was hacked to death, reports quoting District Police Office in Biratnagar said.
Maoists have not yet explained the reason behind his killing.
nepalnews.com mbk Sept 30, 04 Sphere: Related Content
INDOlink - NRI News - India Admits Helping US Against Communists Insurgency in Nepal
New Delhi, Sept. 30 (NNN): New Delhi has admitted that it was actively collaborating with the United States to fight Maoist rebels in the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal.
The issue came to light when The Hindu, reported on Wednesday that a US-chartered plane, loaded with arms for the Nepal government's campaign against the rebels, had arrived in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
A foreign ministry spokesman effectively confirmed the report but said it was "highly exaggerated". Moreover, he significantly said, it was a routine procedure.
"Government of India is aware of the supply of certain explosives and ammunitions by the US Government to Nepal for use in its training programme for Nepalese police in counter- insurgency operations," the spokesman said.
"After completing necessary internal procedures, the clearance for this flight, subject to standard stipulation, was issued yesterday. The flight arrived at Ahmedabad Airport today morning and has left for Kathmandu after mandatory checks. The report is highly exaggerated and over-dramatizes what is a routine procedure," the spokesman added.
Earlier on Wednesday, The Hindu said that the aircraft operated by Vega Airlines, a private Bulgarian cargo company, carrying explosives and ammunition to "combat" the Maoists in Nepal, "has been sitting" at an Indian airport since Saturday, awaiting permission to fly out to Kathmandu.
The paper said it was reliably told that "the United States Government engaged Vega Airlines", which mostly has Russian-made AN-12 aircraft in its fleet, to ferry the explosives and ammunition to Kathmandu for an "anti-terrorist" training facility in Nepal.
Wednesday’s admission could be controversial for ties with China and also for New Delhi's communist-backed government, Indian officials and diplomats said.
They said while there was little domestic or diplomatic opposition to India's increased public support for Kathmandu's battle against the rebels, including military aid, the admission of working in tandem with Washington would be construed differently.
As per the diplomatic sources China, which had expressed quiet support for Kathmandu's campaign against the Maoists, was nevertheless wary of an American involvement in the campaign.
In New Delhi, the communist-led Left Front, which shores up Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government, is stridently critical of virtually everything that has to do with Washington. Sphere: Related Content
The issue came to light when The Hindu, reported on Wednesday that a US-chartered plane, loaded with arms for the Nepal government's campaign against the rebels, had arrived in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
A foreign ministry spokesman effectively confirmed the report but said it was "highly exaggerated". Moreover, he significantly said, it was a routine procedure.
"Government of India is aware of the supply of certain explosives and ammunitions by the US Government to Nepal for use in its training programme for Nepalese police in counter- insurgency operations," the spokesman said.
"After completing necessary internal procedures, the clearance for this flight, subject to standard stipulation, was issued yesterday. The flight arrived at Ahmedabad Airport today morning and has left for Kathmandu after mandatory checks. The report is highly exaggerated and over-dramatizes what is a routine procedure," the spokesman added.
Earlier on Wednesday, The Hindu said that the aircraft operated by Vega Airlines, a private Bulgarian cargo company, carrying explosives and ammunition to "combat" the Maoists in Nepal, "has been sitting" at an Indian airport since Saturday, awaiting permission to fly out to Kathmandu.
The paper said it was reliably told that "the United States Government engaged Vega Airlines", which mostly has Russian-made AN-12 aircraft in its fleet, to ferry the explosives and ammunition to Kathmandu for an "anti-terrorist" training facility in Nepal.
Wednesday’s admission could be controversial for ties with China and also for New Delhi's communist-backed government, Indian officials and diplomats said.
They said while there was little domestic or diplomatic opposition to India's increased public support for Kathmandu's battle against the rebels, including military aid, the admission of working in tandem with Washington would be construed differently.
As per the diplomatic sources China, which had expressed quiet support for Kathmandu's campaign against the Maoists, was nevertheless wary of an American involvement in the campaign.
In New Delhi, the communist-led Left Front, which shores up Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government, is stridently critical of virtually everything that has to do with Washington. Sphere: Related Content
Britain extends citizenship rights to Gurkha soldiers
A British (Nepoli) Gurkha stands guard at the site of an apparent suicide attack in Kabul
LONDON : Britain has extended full citizenship rights to Gurkha soldiers from Nepal who serve in the British armed forces, Prime Minister Tony Blair said on Thursday.
"The Gurkhas have served this country with great skill, courage and dignity during some of the most testing times in our history," Blair said.
"They have made an enormous contribution not just to our armed forces but to the life of this country, and it is important their commitment and sacrifice is recognised," he said. Gurkhas and their supporters have been trying for three years to publicly shame the British government with the charge it treats these soldiers as good enough to die for Britain, but not good enough to become citizens.
The announcement that most Gurkha soldiers have won the right to become British citizens follows an 18-month review by Britain's Home Office and the Foreign Office.
Gurkhas said they could not wholeheartedly welcome the move because the new provision will apply only to those who were discharged from the forces after July 1, 1997, meaning that around 100 of the estimated 400 Gurkhas currently resident in Britain will not be eligible.
Gurkhas have served in the British army since 1815, with 3,600 now serving in Britain and overseas, but very few had been granted the right to British citizenship.
Most Gurkhas return to Nepal - which is currently in the midst of a Maoist insurgency - at the end of their service.
Major Tikendradal Dewan, chairman of the Brigade of Gurkhas Welfare Society, said: "This is extremely good news in a way but it is not a 100 percent celebration because of the cut-off date."
"It's difficult to rejoice at the news when we know that something like a quarter of the guys will not benefit from it. What will happen to them? Will they be deported?" he asked.
The Home Office said changes would be introduced to the immigration rules within the next few weeks, introducing a new procedure for former Gurkhas to smooth their way into British society.
Gurkhas who have served more than four years will be able to apply for entry clearance from Nepal or Britain after discharge.
Although approval will not be automatic, most are expected to be granted indefinite leave to remain in Britain and then to apply for citizenship after 12 months.
Many ex-Gurkhas who have already applied for citizenship have seen their cases left in limbo over the past two years while they waited for the review to be completed.
Major Dewan said their uncertain immigration status meant that they were often unable to find suitable jobs or return to Nepal to visit relatives.
Most Gurkhas retire after 15 years service in their mid-30s, he said.
Because of the shortage of work in their impoverished homeland and their inability to settle in Britain, many seek a second career overseas, often finding security work in troublespots like Iraq.
Home Secretary David Blunkett paid tribute to the Gurkhas' "unquestioning loyalty".
"In battle, they have distinguished themselves as brave and skilful soldiers in all conditions and all terrains," he said.
"Their 13 Victoria Crosses (Britain's highest military honour) and numerous other bravery awards speak for themselves."
"I am very keen to ensure that we recognise their role in the history of our country and the part they have played in protecting us," Blunkett said.
"This is why we have put together the best possible package to enable discharged Gurkhas to apply for settlement and citizenship," he said. "I hope that the decision I have made today will make our gratitude clear."
Thousands of Gurkhas are serving or have served recently with British forces in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Balkans. Still more have served in past wars, including World War I and World War II.
An estimated 43,000 Gurkhas were killed or wounded in action in the two world wars.
- AFP
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Gurkha warriors of troubled Nepal grateful for British citizenship
Posted: 30 September 2004 1735 hrs
KATHMANDU : Veterans of and aspirants to the Gurkha brigade voiced gratitude at Britain's decision to grant citizenship to the mountain fighters, saying their way of life was under threat due to the turmoil in Nepal.
For Kumar Bahadur Gurung, an 18-year-old who survives on odd jobs in the capital Kathmandu, the British announcement fueled his hopes of entering the Gurkhas, who have been part of the British army for nearly two centuries.
"Joining the Gurkhas is like winning a million-rupee lottery," he said. "Now if I am selected, my family and I could one day settle in Britain and live comfortably."
Gurung last month fled his village of Chipledunga in western Nepal under threat by Maoist rebels, who have taken over much of the Himalayan kingdom in their eight-year campaign to overthrow the monarchy.
He said the Maoists had tried to recruit him and had warned young people not to join the "imperialist army" -- meaning either the Royal Nepal Army or the Gurkhas.
Gurung left behind two brothers, two sisters and his farmer parents, who gave him 500 rupees (seven dollars) for his journey to Kathmandu, where he has made inquiries with Gurkha veterans in hope of trying out.
"If I had the chance to be a Gurkha, I would be assured of an education, training and a salary that surpasses that of a government minister," he said.
Aspiring Gurkhas undergo a rigorous recruitment, with a less than five percent acceptance rate for the thousands of young men who try out each year. Gurkhas usually retire in their mid-30s.
The Gurkhas -- who traditionally carry 45-centimeter (18-inch) kukri knives -- have served in the British army since 1815 when they impressed officers with their valiant defence against British invasion.
Some 3,600 Gurkhas are now serving in Britain and overseas, but very few had been granted citizenship and they have long complained of unequal benefits compared with veterans of British nationality.
"In the 200-year history of the Gurkhas, most have preferred to settle in their home villages after retirement," said retired major Deepak Bahadur Gurung, who spent 30 years with the Gurkhas.
"But now the situation is different because of the Maoists. Gurkha veterans wonder how they can stay in Nepal," said Gurung, president of the Nepal ex-Army Association veterans group in Kathmandu.
He welcomed Prime Minister Tony Blair's announcement on citizenship, but was concerned that only Gurkhas who were discharged after July 1, 1997 would be eligible.
"It's even more important for older Gurkhas to become citizens because they can no longer work. Their children could find jobs in Britain if their fathers were citizens," he said.
Krishna Kumar Rai, vice president of another veterans group, the Gurkha Ex-Army Servicemen's Organisation, echoed his views.
"Citizenship is not the most important thing. It's that people who served Britain should have job security afterwards," Rai said.
"We're disappointed some Gurkhas are being excluded. Why not give citizenship to a Gurkha who retired on June 30, 1997?" he asked.
"But even if just a few Gurkhas will be able to settle in Britain, we're very grateful to the British government for that."
Around 100 of the 400 Gurkhas already resident in Britain will be ineligible for citizenship because of the 1997 cutoff, according to Gurkha activists.
Gurkhas expect ample job opportunities in Britain as many have a background in work such as driving and mechanics and, unlike many immigrants, tend to speak English.
- AFP
KATHMANDU : Veterans of and aspirants to the Gurkha brigade voiced gratitude at Britain's decision to grant citizenship to the mountain fighters, saying their way of life was under threat due to the turmoil in Nepal.
For Kumar Bahadur Gurung, an 18-year-old who survives on odd jobs in the capital Kathmandu, the British announcement fueled his hopes of entering the Gurkhas, who have been part of the British army for nearly two centuries.
"Joining the Gurkhas is like winning a million-rupee lottery," he said. "Now if I am selected, my family and I could one day settle in Britain and live comfortably."
Gurung last month fled his village of Chipledunga in western Nepal under threat by Maoist rebels, who have taken over much of the Himalayan kingdom in their eight-year campaign to overthrow the monarchy.
He said the Maoists had tried to recruit him and had warned young people not to join the "imperialist army" -- meaning either the Royal Nepal Army or the Gurkhas.
Gurung left behind two brothers, two sisters and his farmer parents, who gave him 500 rupees (seven dollars) for his journey to Kathmandu, where he has made inquiries with Gurkha veterans in hope of trying out.
"If I had the chance to be a Gurkha, I would be assured of an education, training and a salary that surpasses that of a government minister," he said.
Aspiring Gurkhas undergo a rigorous recruitment, with a less than five percent acceptance rate for the thousands of young men who try out each year. Gurkhas usually retire in their mid-30s.
The Gurkhas -- who traditionally carry 45-centimeter (18-inch) kukri knives -- have served in the British army since 1815 when they impressed officers with their valiant defence against British invasion.
Some 3,600 Gurkhas are now serving in Britain and overseas, but very few had been granted citizenship and they have long complained of unequal benefits compared with veterans of British nationality.
"In the 200-year history of the Gurkhas, most have preferred to settle in their home villages after retirement," said retired major Deepak Bahadur Gurung, who spent 30 years with the Gurkhas.
"But now the situation is different because of the Maoists. Gurkha veterans wonder how they can stay in Nepal," said Gurung, president of the Nepal ex-Army Association veterans group in Kathmandu.
He welcomed Prime Minister Tony Blair's announcement on citizenship, but was concerned that only Gurkhas who were discharged after July 1, 1997 would be eligible.
"It's even more important for older Gurkhas to become citizens because they can no longer work. Their children could find jobs in Britain if their fathers were citizens," he said.
Krishna Kumar Rai, vice president of another veterans group, the Gurkha Ex-Army Servicemen's Organisation, echoed his views.
"Citizenship is not the most important thing. It's that people who served Britain should have job security afterwards," Rai said.
"We're disappointed some Gurkhas are being excluded. Why not give citizenship to a Gurkha who retired on June 30, 1997?" he asked.
"But even if just a few Gurkhas will be able to settle in Britain, we're very grateful to the British government for that."
Around 100 of the 400 Gurkhas already resident in Britain will be ineligible for citizenship because of the 1997 cutoff, according to Gurkha activists.
Gurkhas expect ample job opportunities in Britain as many have a background in work such as driving and mechanics and, unlike many immigrants, tend to speak English.
- AFP
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Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Kathmandu bank blasted by bomb set by Communist Maoists
September 28, 2004 14:21 IST
Communist Maoists burnt eight Nepali and two Indian vehicles as the two-day strike called by the rebels to protest the killing and arrest of their men by security forces began on Tuesday. A bank was damaged in a bomb blast, security forces said.
The shut-down affected five zones in the eastern and central regions of the country, including capital Kathmandu, leading to the closure of schools, businesses, transport and markets.
Security has been stepped up especially along the highways in central and eastern Nepal.
Maoists burnt two jeeps with Indian number plates in Dhading district, 75km west of Kathmandu, the security sources said. The vehicles were coming from Pokhara to Kathmandu on a tour to South Asian countries as part of the Asian People's March for Economic Sovereignty, when the rebels accosted them.
The Maoists forced 22 Indian nationals, including four journalists, three Nepalese nationals and one Filipino national to get out of the vehicles before setting them on fire, the police said. They also burnt eight Nepalese vehicles. All the passengers were safely brought to Kathmandu with the help of security escorts.
A bomb caused damage to the Nepal-Bangladesh Bank and several houses in Lalitpur on the outskirts of the capital. There were no casualties, the police said.
The communists also set ablaze a passenger bus on Janakpur-Jaleswar highway in central Nepal on Monday. They forced all passengers out from the bus before setting it on fire. Last week, the Maoist rebels rejected the Nepal government's offer for secret talks, saying they would be willing to resume dialogue only if it clarified matters relating to the army, the palace, the constituent assembly and the role of the political parties.
Sphere: Related Content
Communist Maoists burnt eight Nepali and two Indian vehicles as the two-day strike called by the rebels to protest the killing and arrest of their men by security forces began on Tuesday. A bank was damaged in a bomb blast, security forces said.
The shut-down affected five zones in the eastern and central regions of the country, including capital Kathmandu, leading to the closure of schools, businesses, transport and markets.
Security has been stepped up especially along the highways in central and eastern Nepal.
Maoists burnt two jeeps with Indian number plates in Dhading district, 75km west of Kathmandu, the security sources said. The vehicles were coming from Pokhara to Kathmandu on a tour to South Asian countries as part of the Asian People's March for Economic Sovereignty, when the rebels accosted them.
The Maoists forced 22 Indian nationals, including four journalists, three Nepalese nationals and one Filipino national to get out of the vehicles before setting them on fire, the police said. They also burnt eight Nepalese vehicles. All the passengers were safely brought to Kathmandu with the help of security escorts.
A bomb caused damage to the Nepal-Bangladesh Bank and several houses in Lalitpur on the outskirts of the capital. There were no casualties, the police said.
The communists also set ablaze a passenger bus on Janakpur-Jaleswar highway in central Nepal on Monday. They forced all passengers out from the bus before setting it on fire. Last week, the Maoist rebels rejected the Nepal government's offer for secret talks, saying they would be willing to resume dialogue only if it clarified matters relating to the army, the palace, the constituent assembly and the role of the political parties.
Sphere: Related Content
Buses and trucks torched by Communist Terrorist on the highways leading into Kathmandu, Nepal on Monday night
2004-09-29 / Associated Press /
A general strike called by communist terorists shut down half of this Himalayan kingdom of Nepal Tuesday despite a government call for the public to defy the guerrillas.
Nepal's Home Ministry said yesterday it had deployed additional security forces and urged the public not to honor the strike. The ministry promised to compensate anyone whose property or vehicles were damaged by the rebels in retaliation for their defiance.
In the past, the guerrillas and their supporters have vandalized shops and torched vehicles of anyone who defied their strike demands.
The two-day shutdown, which began yesterday, affected the eastern and central regions of the country, including the capital Kathmandu, forcing the closure of schools, businesses, transport and markets throughout the affected regions.
Police said at least a half dozen buses and trucks were torched by the rebels on the highways leading into the capital on Monday night, even before the strike was to begin. No one was injured in the attacks.
Vehicles stayed off the roads yesterday but the airports remained open. Government workers were forced to walk to their offices and tourists were driven to the airport in buses with armed police guards.
In the capital Kathmandu, soldiers and armed policemen were stationed on all major intersections of the city while hundreds of troops patrolled the streets.
Coercive force
Thousands of passengers were stranded at the bus station in Katmandu as drivers refused to run their routes.
Most people do not support the rebels but comply with the strikes out of fear of attacks by the Maoist communists.
The guerrillas say they are inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong and have been fighting since February 1996 to replace Nepal's monarchy with a communist state.
The communist insurgency has claimed more than 10,000 lives.
Violence has escalated since the insurgents withdrew from a cease-fire in August. The rebels walked out of peace talks and resumed attacks on government and civilian targets.
Sphere: Related Content
A general strike called by communist terorists shut down half of this Himalayan kingdom of Nepal Tuesday despite a government call for the public to defy the guerrillas.
Nepal's Home Ministry said yesterday it had deployed additional security forces and urged the public not to honor the strike. The ministry promised to compensate anyone whose property or vehicles were damaged by the rebels in retaliation for their defiance.
In the past, the guerrillas and their supporters have vandalized shops and torched vehicles of anyone who defied their strike demands.
The two-day shutdown, which began yesterday, affected the eastern and central regions of the country, including the capital Kathmandu, forcing the closure of schools, businesses, transport and markets throughout the affected regions.
Police said at least a half dozen buses and trucks were torched by the rebels on the highways leading into the capital on Monday night, even before the strike was to begin. No one was injured in the attacks.
Vehicles stayed off the roads yesterday but the airports remained open. Government workers were forced to walk to their offices and tourists were driven to the airport in buses with armed police guards.
In the capital Kathmandu, soldiers and armed policemen were stationed on all major intersections of the city while hundreds of troops patrolled the streets.
Coercive force
Thousands of passengers were stranded at the bus station in Katmandu as drivers refused to run their routes.
Most people do not support the rebels but comply with the strikes out of fear of attacks by the Maoist communists.
The guerrillas say they are inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong and have been fighting since February 1996 to replace Nepal's monarchy with a communist state.
The communist insurgency has claimed more than 10,000 lives.
Violence has escalated since the insurgents withdrew from a cease-fire in August. The rebels walked out of peace talks and resumed attacks on government and civilian targets.
Sphere: Related Content
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Nepalese living goddess ... Kumari sits in a chariot during a procession held during the traditional Hindu and Buddhist festivals of Kumari and the rain god Indra in Kathmandu.
Photo: AFP
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Monday, September 27, 2004
Maoist rebels said they would resume talks to end eight years of bloodshed in Nepal if they were certain the king and army were in agreement with Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who offered negotiations(AFP/File/Devendra M. Singh)
Sphere: Related Content
Nepal:: Govt declares high security alert
The Nepali government Monday declared high security alert across the country in view of possible security threats during the two-day general strike called by the Maoists on Tuesday and Wednesday in some parts of the country including the Kathmandu Valley.
Issuing a press communiqué, the Home Ministry said proper security arrangements have been made in the Valley, highways and other sensitive areas across the country. To ensure good security, the regional administrators, chief district officers (CDO) and security heads in the districts have been asked to enforce the decision effectively.
Asking the general public to cooperate in enforcing the security measures, the ministry said compensation will be provided to the owners of vehicles in case there is any damage during bandhs. Assistance committees under CDOs of concerned districts will oversee the compensation matters, the ministry said.
The ministry has also appealed all not to go after rumours and threats and has urged people to run businesses as usual.
The Eastern Command of the CPN-Maoist is observing the bandh in protest of the killing of two its central leaders few weeks ago when they were on their way from a central committee meeting held in Dang. nepalnews.com mbk Sep 27 04 Sphere: Related Content
Issuing a press communiqué, the Home Ministry said proper security arrangements have been made in the Valley, highways and other sensitive areas across the country. To ensure good security, the regional administrators, chief district officers (CDO) and security heads in the districts have been asked to enforce the decision effectively.
Asking the general public to cooperate in enforcing the security measures, the ministry said compensation will be provided to the owners of vehicles in case there is any damage during bandhs. Assistance committees under CDOs of concerned districts will oversee the compensation matters, the ministry said.
The ministry has also appealed all not to go after rumours and threats and has urged people to run businesses as usual.
The Eastern Command of the CPN-Maoist is observing the bandh in protest of the killing of two its central leaders few weeks ago when they were on their way from a central committee meeting held in Dang. nepalnews.com mbk Sep 27 04 Sphere: Related Content
Sunday, September 26, 2004
Channelnewsasia.com:: ADB lends 40 million dollars to develop Nepal's rebellion-torn areas
MANILA: The Asian Development Bank has approved a 40-million-dollar soft loan for Nepal to improve roads and bridges in areas torn by a Maoist insurgency.
The project will extend the network of roads, trails, and pedestrian bridges in 18 districts, including 14 districts in the Western, Midwestern, and Far Western regions.
A Maoist insurgency seeking to topple Nepal's constitutional monarchy has left thousands of people dead over the past eight years, according to official estimates.
The bank said most of the Himalayan kingdom's 6,600 kilometers (4,092 miles) of roads are earthen. A number of districts have no roads at all. Most people in remote hill and mountain districts live more than a day's walk from a road.
"Such deprivation, inequality, and discrimination have contributed to the spread of the conflict in Nepal," said project economist Brian Fawcett.
The bank loan accounts for 64 percent of the project cost and is payable over 32 years at low interest. Switzerland and Germany are cofinancing the project.
The bank will also give a 400,000-dollar technical assistance grant to Nepal.
- AFP
Sphere: Related Content
The project will extend the network of roads, trails, and pedestrian bridges in 18 districts, including 14 districts in the Western, Midwestern, and Far Western regions.
A Maoist insurgency seeking to topple Nepal's constitutional monarchy has left thousands of people dead over the past eight years, according to official estimates.
The bank said most of the Himalayan kingdom's 6,600 kilometers (4,092 miles) of roads are earthen. A number of districts have no roads at all. Most people in remote hill and mountain districts live more than a day's walk from a road.
"Such deprivation, inequality, and discrimination have contributed to the spread of the conflict in Nepal," said project economist Brian Fawcett.
The bank loan accounts for 64 percent of the project cost and is payable over 32 years at low interest. Switzerland and Germany are cofinancing the project.
The bank will also give a 400,000-dollar technical assistance grant to Nepal.
- AFP
Sphere: Related Content
Maoists kidnap 50 PFN cadres in Paanchthar
The Maoists have abducted over 50 cadres of People’s Front Nepal (PFN), including a central committee member Keshab Baral, from Sarandana of Paanchthar district on Friday, reports said Saturday.
The rebels abducted them from a mass meeting organized by the youth wing of the party. Among the arrested, a dozen are women, reports said. Although the area is just a 6-hour walk from the district headquarters, Phidim, the incident became known hours later due to lack of communication facilities.
The condition of the captives remains unknown until Saturday evening. Of late, the Maoists have stepped up abduction and persecution of PFN cadres and leaders. Two weeks ago, the rebels had attacked PFN leaders and cadres in Dailekh in which a dozen including party general secretary Naba Raj Subedi were injured.
After the incident, the PFN has been carrying out an ‘exposure campaign’ against Maoists in some districts. nepalnews.com Sphere: Related Content
The rebels abducted them from a mass meeting organized by the youth wing of the party. Among the arrested, a dozen are women, reports said. Although the area is just a 6-hour walk from the district headquarters, Phidim, the incident became known hours later due to lack of communication facilities.
The condition of the captives remains unknown until Saturday evening. Of late, the Maoists have stepped up abduction and persecution of PFN cadres and leaders. Two weeks ago, the rebels had attacked PFN leaders and cadres in Dailekh in which a dozen including party general secretary Naba Raj Subedi were injured.
After the incident, the PFN has been carrying out an ‘exposure campaign’ against Maoists in some districts. nepalnews.com Sphere: Related Content
Govt is studying Maoist statements: Prime Minister
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba Sunday said the government was closely studying the recent statements from the Maoist party.
"We know of four public statements (of the Maoists) issued in recent times. We have been studying these statements," Deuba said talking to reporters after program in the capital. Though he refrained from talking in detail, he informed that the government’s response to the recent Maoist statement would come soon.
In a statement on Friday, CPN-Maoist chairman Prachanda had challenged the government, inter alia, to clarify whether it was able to bring the country’s politics to a state before the Royal takeover of 4th October 2002 and show evidences proving that the government has control over the army. Prachanda had said his party would consider coming to the negotiating table if the government responded objectively to his party’s concerns.
Meanwhile, general secretary of the ruling CPN UML, Madhav Kumar Nepal, has ruled out the need for direct mediation from the United Nations in the probable peace talks. He however said the UN could be involved in the peace process but not as a mediator.
"The UN’s involvement in the negotiation process cannot be ruled out but there should be no mediation," he said speaking at an interaction program organized by Press Chautari Nepal in Rautahat, his hometown.
The UML leader urged the government to immediately make clear its position regarding the questions raised by the Maoist chief. He also asked the warring sides to declare ceasefire during Dashain festivals. nepalnews.com mbk Sept 26 04 Sphere: Related Content
"We know of four public statements (of the Maoists) issued in recent times. We have been studying these statements," Deuba said talking to reporters after program in the capital. Though he refrained from talking in detail, he informed that the government’s response to the recent Maoist statement would come soon.
In a statement on Friday, CPN-Maoist chairman Prachanda had challenged the government, inter alia, to clarify whether it was able to bring the country’s politics to a state before the Royal takeover of 4th October 2002 and show evidences proving that the government has control over the army. Prachanda had said his party would consider coming to the negotiating table if the government responded objectively to his party’s concerns.
Meanwhile, general secretary of the ruling CPN UML, Madhav Kumar Nepal, has ruled out the need for direct mediation from the United Nations in the probable peace talks. He however said the UN could be involved in the peace process but not as a mediator.
"The UN’s involvement in the negotiation process cannot be ruled out but there should be no mediation," he said speaking at an interaction program organized by Press Chautari Nepal in Rautahat, his hometown.
The UML leader urged the government to immediately make clear its position regarding the questions raised by the Maoist chief. He also asked the warring sides to declare ceasefire during Dashain festivals. nepalnews.com mbk Sept 26 04 Sphere: Related Content
Political activists carry torches during a rally in Nepal's capital Kathmandu September 24, 2004. The protesters denounced the King's active role in politics during their fourth day of protests against the King and the government.
24 Sep 2004 REUTERS/Gopal Chitrakar
Sphere: Related Content
Friday, September 24, 2004
Maoist communists in Nepal have rejected a new appeal by Nepal's prime minister for talks to end their insurgency.
Sphere: Related Content
BBC NEWS | South Asia | Nepal Maoists reject talks plea
Last Updated: Friday, 24 September, 2004, 09:24 GMT 10:24 UK
Nepal Communist Maoists reject talks plea
By Sushil Sharma
BBC correspondent in Kathmandu
Maoist terrorists
The Maoists have said talks must be with King Gyanendra
Maoists in Nepal have rejected a new appeal by the prime minister for talks to end their insurgency.
Rebel spokesman Krishna Bahadur Mahara said the government had neither the authority nor sincerity to hold talks.
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba issued his plea on Wednesday. The Maoists have previously insisted on direct talks with King Gyanendra.
The Maoists have been engaged in an armed struggle since 1996 to replace the monarchy with a communist republic.
Constitution
Mr Mahara made his response to the latest call in an interview broadcast by private radio stations.
He accused the government of being dependent on foreign forces.
The communists have been critical of the support extended to the government by India and the United States.
Mr Mahara also said Nepal's government wanted to step up operations under the guise of peace initiatives.
Peace talks broke down in August last year over a key communist demand for a constituent assembly that would draw up a new constitution.
Violence has increased since the breakdown of the talks, raising the number of casualties in the eight-year conflict to more than 9,000.
Sphere: Related Content
Nepal Communist Maoists reject talks plea
By Sushil Sharma
BBC correspondent in Kathmandu
Maoist terrorists
The Maoists have said talks must be with King Gyanendra
Maoists in Nepal have rejected a new appeal by the prime minister for talks to end their insurgency.
Rebel spokesman Krishna Bahadur Mahara said the government had neither the authority nor sincerity to hold talks.
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba issued his plea on Wednesday. The Maoists have previously insisted on direct talks with King Gyanendra.
The Maoists have been engaged in an armed struggle since 1996 to replace the monarchy with a communist republic.
Constitution
Mr Mahara made his response to the latest call in an interview broadcast by private radio stations.
He accused the government of being dependent on foreign forces.
The communists have been critical of the support extended to the government by India and the United States.
Mr Mahara also said Nepal's government wanted to step up operations under the guise of peace initiatives.
Peace talks broke down in August last year over a key communist demand for a constituent assembly that would draw up a new constitution.
Violence has increased since the breakdown of the talks, raising the number of casualties in the eight-year conflict to more than 9,000.
Sphere: Related Content
Thursday, September 23, 2004
A tiger kills nine minors in Salyan District of Nepal (See Map of Nepal)
A man-eating tiger has killed nine minors in remote Sinawang and Rim VDCs of Salyan district over the past week, reports said.
According to local villagers, all the children were below the age of 10. Another tiger had created similar chaos in the area in 1990, reports said citing VDC official Biswo Kumar Rai.
The man-eating tiger still keeps on entering the village from the local forest creating panic in the entire area, he added. nepalnews.com pd Sep 23 04 Sphere: Related Content
According to local villagers, all the children were below the age of 10. Another tiger had created similar chaos in the area in 1990, reports said citing VDC official Biswo Kumar Rai.
The man-eating tiger still keeps on entering the village from the local forest creating panic in the entire area, he added. nepalnews.com pd Sep 23 04 Sphere: Related Content
Nepal's Maoists are waiting for formal "government letter" before negotiation
Sep 23 04
As the government formally called the Maoist rebels for peace negotiations Wednesday, a leading human rights activist has said the rebels are waiting for formal letter from the authorities.
Speaking at a programme organised by a group of civil society in mid-western town of Nepalgunj Wednesday, Tuladhar said the rebels could agree to hold talks with the government if the latter extended them a formal invitation.
A former facilitator between the government and rebels during the failed peace talks last year, Tuladhar said he had received a phone call from Maoist chairman, Prachanda, saying that his party was not against holding talks with the present government.
He even alleged the government of spreading rumour that the Maoists were not serious towards talks.
He also emphasized the need for UN mediation for peace talks, reports said.
On Wednesday, the high-level peace talks committee comprising leaders of four parties in the ruling coalition and Minister for Information and Communications, Dr. Mohammed Mohsin, considered to a royal representative, had formally called the rebels to come to the table of negotiations.
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-- who heads the committee-- however, told reporters that the process of the proposed negotiations would be kept secret.
Earlier, the rebels had said they would hold negotiations only with the
'master' (the King), not with the `servant' (the royal-appointed government). nepalnews.com by Sep 23 04 Sphere: Related Content
As the government formally called the Maoist rebels for peace negotiations Wednesday, a leading human rights activist has said the rebels are waiting for formal letter from the authorities.
Speaking at a programme organised by a group of civil society in mid-western town of Nepalgunj Wednesday, Tuladhar said the rebels could agree to hold talks with the government if the latter extended them a formal invitation.
A former facilitator between the government and rebels during the failed peace talks last year, Tuladhar said he had received a phone call from Maoist chairman, Prachanda, saying that his party was not against holding talks with the present government.
He even alleged the government of spreading rumour that the Maoists were not serious towards talks.
He also emphasized the need for UN mediation for peace talks, reports said.
On Wednesday, the high-level peace talks committee comprising leaders of four parties in the ruling coalition and Minister for Information and Communications, Dr. Mohammed Mohsin, considered to a royal representative, had formally called the rebels to come to the table of negotiations.
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-- who heads the committee-- however, told reporters that the process of the proposed negotiations would be kept secret.
Earlier, the rebels had said they would hold negotiations only with the
'master' (the King), not with the `servant' (the royal-appointed government). nepalnews.com by Sep 23 04 Sphere: Related Content
Nepal's Prime Minister Deuba
Prime Minister Deuba says the talks will be held "secretly" with the communist Maoist terrorists
Sphere: Related Content
BBC NEWS | South Asia | Nepal's Prime Minister calls for peace talks with Maoists
Last Updated: Thursday, 23 September, 2004, 09:38 GMT 10:38 UK
The Nepalese prime minister has made a fresh appeal to Maoist rebels to join talks to end their insurgency.
The Maoists have been engaged in an armed struggle since 1996 to replace the monarchy with a communist republic.
Peace talks have failed in the past after the rebels demanded a assembly to draw up a new constitution to clear the way for a republican government.
Nepal is facing a deepening crisis after increased rebel violence in the past month.
'Discreet' talks
"We have decided to officially call the Maoists for talks. Talks will be held secretly and with adequate homework," Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba told reporters late on Wednesday.
There was no immediate reaction from the rebels, who have walked out of two sets of peace talks in the past.
In recent months, the rebels have said that talks can be held only if King Gyanendra takes part and there is "credible" international mediation.
"A lot of homework has been done and enough study made before the government renewed its invitation for talks," Information Minister Mohammed Mohsin told Reuters news agency.
He said one of the reasons that the talks had failed in the past was because they had been held in the glare of publicity.
"It will be a discreet thing," Mr Mohsin said.
Some analysts have expressed doubts over the chances of the Maoists accepting the talks invite.
"I don't think they will come on the basis of a mere call for talks," said Padma Ratna Tuladhar, a human rights activist who has mediated previous meetings between the two sides.
Mr Tuladhar told the BBC that the rebels had agreed to come to the meeting table in the past only after receiving a written invitation.
He said the government may have to stop calling the rebels "terrorists" and announce a ceasefire before they agree to the talks. The government has rejected these demands in the past.
Successive governments have been defending the present constitution, in which the constitutional monarchy and multi-party parliamentary democratic system are integral parts.
The upsurge in violence has hurt Nepal's economy and deepened political instability.
National elections have been suspended for two years.
Last month, the capital, Kathmandu, was disrupted for days when the Maoists blockaded the major highways leading into the city.
Violence has risen to an unprecedented scale since talks broke down last year, raising the number of people killed in the eight year insurgency to more than 9,000.
Sphere: Related Content
The Nepalese prime minister has made a fresh appeal to Maoist rebels to join talks to end their insurgency.
The Maoists have been engaged in an armed struggle since 1996 to replace the monarchy with a communist republic.
Peace talks have failed in the past after the rebels demanded a assembly to draw up a new constitution to clear the way for a republican government.
Nepal is facing a deepening crisis after increased rebel violence in the past month.
'Discreet' talks
"We have decided to officially call the Maoists for talks. Talks will be held secretly and with adequate homework," Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba told reporters late on Wednesday.
There was no immediate reaction from the rebels, who have walked out of two sets of peace talks in the past.
In recent months, the rebels have said that talks can be held only if King Gyanendra takes part and there is "credible" international mediation.
"A lot of homework has been done and enough study made before the government renewed its invitation for talks," Information Minister Mohammed Mohsin told Reuters news agency.
He said one of the reasons that the talks had failed in the past was because they had been held in the glare of publicity.
"It will be a discreet thing," Mr Mohsin said.
Some analysts have expressed doubts over the chances of the Maoists accepting the talks invite.
"I don't think they will come on the basis of a mere call for talks," said Padma Ratna Tuladhar, a human rights activist who has mediated previous meetings between the two sides.
Mr Tuladhar told the BBC that the rebels had agreed to come to the meeting table in the past only after receiving a written invitation.
He said the government may have to stop calling the rebels "terrorists" and announce a ceasefire before they agree to the talks. The government has rejected these demands in the past.
Successive governments have been defending the present constitution, in which the constitutional monarchy and multi-party parliamentary democratic system are integral parts.
The upsurge in violence has hurt Nepal's economy and deepened political instability.
National elections have been suspended for two years.
Last month, the capital, Kathmandu, was disrupted for days when the Maoists blockaded the major highways leading into the city.
Violence has risen to an unprecedented scale since talks broke down last year, raising the number of people killed in the eight year insurgency to more than 9,000.
Sphere: Related Content
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Maoists had abducted over 600 students and teachers from remote Ramechhap and Syangja districts in Nepal - Newindpress.com
Wednesday September 22 2004 00:00 IST
IANS
KATHMANDU: Lamps were lit at holy shrines and processions were taken out by Nepalese praying for peace on World Peace Day, but violence in the Maoist insurgency-hit kingdom continued.
Hundreds of people took part in peace marches in the capital and outer districts, hoping for an end to a violent insurgency that has claimed over 10,000 lives.
But at the same time, media reports said Maoists had abducted over 600 students and teachers from remote Ramechhap and Syangja districts to make them attend the rebels' indoctrination programmes.
A private radio channel reported that five Maoists were killed in two encounters with security forces in Sunsari and Dhankota districts on Tuesday morning.
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba alleged at a peace meeting Tuesday that the Maoists were not serious about holding peace talks.
The state media said eight Maoists, including two women, were killed by security forces in two incidents on Monday night.
An NGO, Centre for Victims of Torture, released a report saying 17,000 people have been physically tortured by the rebels since the insurgency began in 1996 and over 100,000 people subjected to psychological pressure.
The National Measles Vaccination Campaign, said to be the biggest health campaign in Nepal's medical history targeting to immunise 9.5 million children aged between nine months and 15 years, also began on Tuesday amid fear that it could be disrupted in violence-prone areas by Maoists or even security forces.
The National Human Rights Commission in Kathmandu said it had written to the Maoists' supreme commander Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, asking him not to disrupt the immunisation programme.
While the nation prayed for peace, an opposition coalition of four parties, led by former prime minister Girija Prasad Koirala's Nepali Congress party, has announced it will start a new phase of protests in the capital, giving rise to fears that there could be more violence.
The opposition has been demanding the ouster of the Sher Bahadur Deuba government and has been holding protests continuously since King Gyanendra appointed the government in June this year.
There is fear of further violence from student organisations who are protesting against a recent hike in the price of petroleum products.
The students' demand that the government roll back prices has also been taken up by the Maoists' trade union which has forced 47 business ventures to close down till the government meets its demands. Sphere: Related Content
IANS
KATHMANDU: Lamps were lit at holy shrines and processions were taken out by Nepalese praying for peace on World Peace Day, but violence in the Maoist insurgency-hit kingdom continued.
Hundreds of people took part in peace marches in the capital and outer districts, hoping for an end to a violent insurgency that has claimed over 10,000 lives.
But at the same time, media reports said Maoists had abducted over 600 students and teachers from remote Ramechhap and Syangja districts to make them attend the rebels' indoctrination programmes.
A private radio channel reported that five Maoists were killed in two encounters with security forces in Sunsari and Dhankota districts on Tuesday morning.
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba alleged at a peace meeting Tuesday that the Maoists were not serious about holding peace talks.
The state media said eight Maoists, including two women, were killed by security forces in two incidents on Monday night.
An NGO, Centre for Victims of Torture, released a report saying 17,000 people have been physically tortured by the rebels since the insurgency began in 1996 and over 100,000 people subjected to psychological pressure.
The National Measles Vaccination Campaign, said to be the biggest health campaign in Nepal's medical history targeting to immunise 9.5 million children aged between nine months and 15 years, also began on Tuesday amid fear that it could be disrupted in violence-prone areas by Maoists or even security forces.
The National Human Rights Commission in Kathmandu said it had written to the Maoists' supreme commander Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda, asking him not to disrupt the immunisation programme.
While the nation prayed for peace, an opposition coalition of four parties, led by former prime minister Girija Prasad Koirala's Nepali Congress party, has announced it will start a new phase of protests in the capital, giving rise to fears that there could be more violence.
The opposition has been demanding the ouster of the Sher Bahadur Deuba government and has been holding protests continuously since King Gyanendra appointed the government in June this year.
There is fear of further violence from student organisations who are protesting against a recent hike in the price of petroleum products.
The students' demand that the government roll back prices has also been taken up by the Maoists' trade union which has forced 47 business ventures to close down till the government meets its demands. Sphere: Related Content
Last Updated: Tuesday, 21 September, 2004, 23:54 GMT 00:54 UK
Nepal's trade of doom
By Charles Haviland
BBC correspondent in Kathmandu
Shikharpur village
A fifth of the people in some villages have sold a kidney
A small group of impoverished villages not far from the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, have recently become an epicentre for the selling of kidneys.
Kidney donation in Nepal is illegal, except from a close relative. But middlemen have persuaded impoverished villagers to sell a kidney for cash or land.
I met one such donor, Ram Thakuri, at his family's two-storey mud hut in the village of Shikharpur, less than two hours drive east of Kathmandu.
Many people here are subsistence farmers and life is very basic, with the cattle living inside the house.
Health 'suffered'
Ram is only 22 but has to support his parents and two brothers from his factory job in the capital.
Ram Thakuri
I needed money, so I decided to do it
Ram Thakuri, kidney donor
Nowadays, he told me, he finds heavy work like that difficult. He believes his health has suffered because he's given up a kidney.
"I'd heard so many people talking about the middlemen who sell the villagers' kidneys," he said.
Two brokers, who Ram says were local tailors, arranged for him to travel to Madras in India, where he was operated on.
Later, secretly, his father followed suit.
"The brokers promised me 160,000 rupees [$2,100]. But I only got 75,000 [$1,000], and the brokers disappeared," said Ram. "The money has done nothing at all to change my life."
Villagers cheated
Villagers gathered under a tree told me about the problem. Perhaps a fifth of the people here, desperate for cash, have sold a kidney, without proper screening to ensure they're fit enough to do it.
Udab Bajgai had the operation in Punjab three years ago aged just 19. He had no land or money and was desperate for cash.
But, he said, he'd received not a single rupee of the promised money - part of what seems to be a clear pattern of brokers cheating villagers.
Badri Prasad Dhungana, a local schoolteacher, has been trying to publicise the issue since becoming aware of it five years ago.
Schoolteacher Badri Prasad Dhungana
Teachers are trying to publicise the issue
"The brokers promise them between 80,000 and 180,000 rupees, depending on the blood group," he said.
He has never met the brokers personally, but believes many live in Kathmandu, a convenient distance away.
Unlike kidney rackets in other countries, most of these transplanted kidneys come back to Kathmandu, even if the villagers go all the way to India for their operations.
Although Nepal still lacks the technology to transplant kidneys, there is a growing demand for such transplants among Nepalis who suffer kidney failure - especially when those patients are more prosperous and educated.
Ethical dilemma
In the dialysis ward at the National Kidney Centre, patients have to come three times a week for costly treatment. A new kidney offers them a way out of this ordeal.
The centre's director, Dr Rishi Kumar Kafle, says the brokers are cunningly taking advantage of this - a neat case of supply and demand.
But he admits that there is an ethical dilemma here.
"Ethically, the people should not buy any kidneys from anybody," he says.
On the other hand, people often ask him for a way out of the punishing dialysis routine.
"Being a doctor, taking into consideration these people, how can I say - you go and die, or come to my centre for dialysis all the time? This also seems to be illogical."
Udab Bajgai
Udab Bajgai had a kidney removed when he was just 19 years old
He believes commercialisation of kidney transplants should stop and that willing donors should get government support such as regular check-ups.
Less than two hours away, in Shikharpur, past kidney donor Udab is bitter about what he went through.
"I'd advise other people, never do this, because I've been through it and I don't want anyone else to go through what I did. I feel extremely angry but also helpless," he says.
This kind of trade in organs will continue in the shadows, here as in many other poor countries. The more the demand, the more people will step in to make money out of it.
But these are villages where there is no chance of education about the need for extra protection of the kidney that remains, and regular health checks are unaffordable.
So each new recipient can mean one more endangered life in the village.
Sphere: Related Content
Nepal's trade of doom
By Charles Haviland
BBC correspondent in Kathmandu
Shikharpur village
A fifth of the people in some villages have sold a kidney
A small group of impoverished villages not far from the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, have recently become an epicentre for the selling of kidneys.
Kidney donation in Nepal is illegal, except from a close relative. But middlemen have persuaded impoverished villagers to sell a kidney for cash or land.
I met one such donor, Ram Thakuri, at his family's two-storey mud hut in the village of Shikharpur, less than two hours drive east of Kathmandu.
Many people here are subsistence farmers and life is very basic, with the cattle living inside the house.
Health 'suffered'
Ram is only 22 but has to support his parents and two brothers from his factory job in the capital.
Ram Thakuri
I needed money, so I decided to do it
Ram Thakuri, kidney donor
Nowadays, he told me, he finds heavy work like that difficult. He believes his health has suffered because he's given up a kidney.
"I'd heard so many people talking about the middlemen who sell the villagers' kidneys," he said.
Two brokers, who Ram says were local tailors, arranged for him to travel to Madras in India, where he was operated on.
Later, secretly, his father followed suit.
"The brokers promised me 160,000 rupees [$2,100]. But I only got 75,000 [$1,000], and the brokers disappeared," said Ram. "The money has done nothing at all to change my life."
Villagers cheated
Villagers gathered under a tree told me about the problem. Perhaps a fifth of the people here, desperate for cash, have sold a kidney, without proper screening to ensure they're fit enough to do it.
Udab Bajgai had the operation in Punjab three years ago aged just 19. He had no land or money and was desperate for cash.
But, he said, he'd received not a single rupee of the promised money - part of what seems to be a clear pattern of brokers cheating villagers.
Badri Prasad Dhungana, a local schoolteacher, has been trying to publicise the issue since becoming aware of it five years ago.
Schoolteacher Badri Prasad Dhungana
Teachers are trying to publicise the issue
"The brokers promise them between 80,000 and 180,000 rupees, depending on the blood group," he said.
He has never met the brokers personally, but believes many live in Kathmandu, a convenient distance away.
Unlike kidney rackets in other countries, most of these transplanted kidneys come back to Kathmandu, even if the villagers go all the way to India for their operations.
Although Nepal still lacks the technology to transplant kidneys, there is a growing demand for such transplants among Nepalis who suffer kidney failure - especially when those patients are more prosperous and educated.
Ethical dilemma
In the dialysis ward at the National Kidney Centre, patients have to come three times a week for costly treatment. A new kidney offers them a way out of this ordeal.
The centre's director, Dr Rishi Kumar Kafle, says the brokers are cunningly taking advantage of this - a neat case of supply and demand.
But he admits that there is an ethical dilemma here.
"Ethically, the people should not buy any kidneys from anybody," he says.
On the other hand, people often ask him for a way out of the punishing dialysis routine.
"Being a doctor, taking into consideration these people, how can I say - you go and die, or come to my centre for dialysis all the time? This also seems to be illogical."
Udab Bajgai
Udab Bajgai had a kidney removed when he was just 19 years old
He believes commercialisation of kidney transplants should stop and that willing donors should get government support such as regular check-ups.
Less than two hours away, in Shikharpur, past kidney donor Udab is bitter about what he went through.
"I'd advise other people, never do this, because I've been through it and I don't want anyone else to go through what I did. I feel extremely angry but also helpless," he says.
This kind of trade in organs will continue in the shadows, here as in many other poor countries. The more the demand, the more people will step in to make money out of it.
But these are villages where there is no chance of education about the need for extra protection of the kidney that remains, and regular health checks are unaffordable.
So each new recipient can mean one more endangered life in the village.
Sphere: Related Content
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
Some 10,000 people have taken to the streets of the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, to support opposition rallies against King Gyanendra.
The four main opposition parties have been holding rallies since King Gyanendra sacked the prime minister in 2002 and assumed executive powers.
The king reinstated the Prime Minister, Sher Bahadur Deuba, earlier this year.
But opposition parties say they are not convinced he has been given back all the powers taken from him.
Assembly demand
During the rally on Tuesday, protesters chanted slogans against the king and demanded the restoration of parliament.
Some also demanded elections for the constituent assembly, a move which Nepal's Maoist rebels believe will pave the way for their republican agenda.
The opposition had been forced to suspend its rallies because of heavy rains during the recent monsoon season.
But now with the skies beginning to clear, they have taken to the streets once again to demand the reinstatement of the parliament or the formation of an all-party government.
Lighting candles
Earlier on Tuesday, several hundred people took part in a rally in Kathmandu, to press for an end to the country's long-running civil war.
Buddhist monks and Hindu priests joined schoolchildren, rights activists, lawyers and ordinary Nepalis in lighting candles and singing hymns.
The event was held to mark International Day for Peace.
Some 9,000 people have died in Nepal since Maoists began an armed struggle for a communist republic in 1996.
Sphere: Related Content
Nepalese security forces keep watch west of Kathmandu. The country's army said it shot dead eight Maoist rebels, ahead of a planned strike by the guerrillas who are fighting to overthrow the monarchy(AFP/File/Rob Elliot)
Sphere: Related Content
Japan Today - News - Thousands call for peace in Nepal - Japan's Leading International News Network
Wednesday, September 22, 2004 at 04:14 JST
KATHMANDU — Thousands of Nepalese calling for peace congregated in central Kathmandu on Tuesday, saying strife-torn Nepal has had enough of violence.
Police said some 3,000 people had gathered in the pagoda temples and palace complex of Basantapur to mark World Peace Day. (Kyodo News)
Sphere: Related Content
KATHMANDU — Thousands of Nepalese calling for peace congregated in central Kathmandu on Tuesday, saying strife-torn Nepal has had enough of violence.
Police said some 3,000 people had gathered in the pagoda temples and palace complex of Basantapur to mark World Peace Day. (Kyodo News)
Sphere: Related Content
HELP NEPAL NETWORK PROJECTS
HELP NEPAL Network provided funds for the construction of a Health Post at Rara Murma village in Mugu, one of the most remote districts in Nepal. The total cost of the building was estimated at £8,000. The Network provided 50% of the cost, and the remainder was raised by the Murma Top Youth Club through various other sources. There was also a substantial contribution towards the construction work by local volunteers. The government has provided the necessary land to build the Health Post and the District Health Office four temporary healthcare workers. The Network is currently raising funds to support the HELP NEPAL Health Post in Mugu district.
Sphere: Related Content
A Nepali walks for miles to raise fund for Help Nepal
Navin Dhakal, a Nepali chemical engineer who teaches at Pearson College in Canada, has completed a 56-km walk to raise funds in support of Help Nepal Network (HeNN)-- a global charity set up by Nepalis living abroad.
Navin raised US$2,700, (approx. Rs 200,000) most of it from Nepalis living in different parts of the world by completing the walk on Friday.
"It is a very good initiative and shows how a Nepali can help his/her
compatriots wherever they are," said Dr. Pranab Gyawali, a chairman of HeNN-UK.
"Despite many blisters and aches and pains, I finally managed to complete the 56 Km walk. With such a foot, I was among the few last ones. Many people were a bit unfortunate than me and had to take shuttles due to the blisters and swellings which were probably unbearable. But, thanks to the help of a "latthi" (walking stick), Ibuprofen, my wonderful students and colleagues, I managed to complete it," said Navin over e-mail.
Navin was able to complete the walk in 14 hours and 20 minutes.
A global network of Nepalis-- Help Nepal Network has completed a number of projects in health and education sectors especially in remote parts of the country. nepalnews.com by Sep 21 04 Sphere: Related Content
Navin raised US$2,700, (approx. Rs 200,000) most of it from Nepalis living in different parts of the world by completing the walk on Friday.
"It is a very good initiative and shows how a Nepali can help his/her
compatriots wherever they are," said Dr. Pranab Gyawali, a chairman of HeNN-UK.
"Despite many blisters and aches and pains, I finally managed to complete the 56 Km walk. With such a foot, I was among the few last ones. Many people were a bit unfortunate than me and had to take shuttles due to the blisters and swellings which were probably unbearable. But, thanks to the help of a "latthi" (walking stick), Ibuprofen, my wonderful students and colleagues, I managed to complete it," said Navin over e-mail.
Navin was able to complete the walk in 14 hours and 20 minutes.
A global network of Nepalis-- Help Nepal Network has completed a number of projects in health and education sectors especially in remote parts of the country. nepalnews.com by Sep 21 04 Sphere: Related Content
RAOnline Nepal: Headlines on the Maoist Conflict - 2004
September 15 - September 21 . September 22 - September 31
September 15
2004 » Maoist bomb attack: The US embassy in Nepal has asked Washington to allow staff families to return home for security reasons.
» US military help: US government has announced it is providing more military assistance to Nepal to tackle the Maoist insurgency.
» UNICEF: The UN organization has called on "all concerned parties to the conflict" to keep schools free from violent activities.
» Peace talks: CPN UML general secretary once more repeated that the Nepali goverment is trying to initiate peace talks with the Maoists at the earliest but the Maoists are yet to give a positive response.
» Peace talks: CPN UML general secretary once more repeated that the Nepali goverment is trying to initiate peace talks with the Maoists at the earliest but the Maoists are yet to give a positive response.
» Industry closure: All Nepal Trade Union Federation has agreed to withdraw its call for closure of industries after the governemnt has fulfiled their major demands.
» Gorkha: Local people in Gorkha are asking why Maoist rebels have destroyed their Nepali financed Christian school.
September 17
2004
» Panchthar: Maoist rebels have abducted eight cadres of leftist party People's Front Nepal -PFN.
» Solukhumbu: Maoist rebels have captured the land and houses of those who fled their villages. Maoists have forced the eviction of the families for refusing to join their party.
» UNICEF: The UN organization has called on "all concerned parties to the conflict" to keep schools free from violent activities.
» Closed industries: Industries resumed their operations after an agreement between the govermnent and the pro-Maoist worker union ANFTU.
» Bara: Maoist activist exploded a powerful bomb in the office of Kalaiya Municipality. No human casualty is reported.
» Return home : U.S. Government allows nonemergency embassy staff bd their families to leave Nepal.
» U.S. Peace Corps: U.S. State Department temporarily suspended Peace Corps operations in Nepal. Earlier this year Maoist rebels had threatened to use "more violent means" if peace talks with the Nepalese government were not successful.
» Police training: About 100 Nepali policemen are undergoing training in anti-Maoist operations in India
» Udaypur: Over 100 government-run schools have shut down under the pressure of pro-Maoist ANNISU-R
September 19
2004
» UN assembly: Nepal would raise the issues of peace and security, international terrorism, Nepal's role in combating terrorism and poverty and recruitment of child soldiers by the Maoists.
» ANTUF leaders released: As agreed in the negotiations with the Maoist-affiliated All Nepal Trade Union Federation (ANTUF), the government has released two ANTUF leaders.
» Kathmandu suburb: Security forces have killed a Maoist rebel during a a shootout in Thali.
» AI calls: In a open letter Amnesty International (AI) - Asia Pacific has asked the CPN-Maoist to immediately free 12 persons abducted from different places at different times. Ealrier this month AI has published a open letter to the Royal Nepalese Army asking information on the whereabouts of disappeared Maoists.
» Abductions: Maoists have abducted several activists of Nepali Congress and Nepali Congress (Democratic) for holding a "political consultation" in Jhapa.
» Chitwan strike : Maoist activists have set vehicles on fire to enforce their call for day-long strike. The Maoists want to protest against the killings of their comrades by security personnel.
» U.S. Peace Corps: 84 volunteers of U.S. Peace Corps have left Nepal duet to threats by the Maoist rebels. Peace Corps volunteers in Nepal have been working in the health, sanitation, teaching, water and forestry fields.
» Abduction: UNICEF Nepal has expressed concern over the abduction of one of their employees by Maoist rebels in Dadeldhura.
September 21
2004
» Peace talks : The government is likely to invite the Maoist rebels for fresh rounds of talks before Dashain. This year's Dashain begins from October 15. CPN (Maoist) supremo Prachanda said earlier this month that his party want to talk with the masters (i.e. the King, the Army, India and the U.S.A.) not with their servants (i.e. the present government). "This government has no authority to hold negotiations.", the Maoist spokesman said.
» Peace Day: The International Day of Peace was observed across the country. In Kathmandu only some hundreds of participants have followed the programmes.
» Bhojpur: The Maoist rebels have abducted over 50 students.
» Foreign intervention: CPN (Maoist) is serious towards prospects of increase in foreign intervention in Nepal as the ongoing conflict intensifies.
» Sindhupalchowk: Parents, students, teachers, journalists and human rights activists have protested in a rally against the indefinite closure of educational institutions called by Maoist 's ANNFSU-R.
» Gorkha: Parents, students and teachers will resist the Maoist's order to close their Nepali financed Christian school. Sphere: Related Content
September 15
2004 » Maoist bomb attack: The US embassy in Nepal has asked Washington to allow staff families to return home for security reasons.
» US military help: US government has announced it is providing more military assistance to Nepal to tackle the Maoist insurgency.
» UNICEF: The UN organization has called on "all concerned parties to the conflict" to keep schools free from violent activities.
» Peace talks: CPN UML general secretary once more repeated that the Nepali goverment is trying to initiate peace talks with the Maoists at the earliest but the Maoists are yet to give a positive response.
» Peace talks: CPN UML general secretary once more repeated that the Nepali goverment is trying to initiate peace talks with the Maoists at the earliest but the Maoists are yet to give a positive response.
» Industry closure: All Nepal Trade Union Federation has agreed to withdraw its call for closure of industries after the governemnt has fulfiled their major demands.
» Gorkha: Local people in Gorkha are asking why Maoist rebels have destroyed their Nepali financed Christian school.
September 17
2004
» Panchthar: Maoist rebels have abducted eight cadres of leftist party People's Front Nepal -PFN.
» Solukhumbu: Maoist rebels have captured the land and houses of those who fled their villages. Maoists have forced the eviction of the families for refusing to join their party.
» UNICEF: The UN organization has called on "all concerned parties to the conflict" to keep schools free from violent activities.
» Closed industries: Industries resumed their operations after an agreement between the govermnent and the pro-Maoist worker union ANFTU.
» Bara: Maoist activist exploded a powerful bomb in the office of Kalaiya Municipality. No human casualty is reported.
» Return home : U.S. Government allows nonemergency embassy staff bd their families to leave Nepal.
» U.S. Peace Corps: U.S. State Department temporarily suspended Peace Corps operations in Nepal. Earlier this year Maoist rebels had threatened to use "more violent means" if peace talks with the Nepalese government were not successful.
» Police training: About 100 Nepali policemen are undergoing training in anti-Maoist operations in India
» Udaypur: Over 100 government-run schools have shut down under the pressure of pro-Maoist ANNISU-R
September 19
2004
» UN assembly: Nepal would raise the issues of peace and security, international terrorism, Nepal's role in combating terrorism and poverty and recruitment of child soldiers by the Maoists.
» ANTUF leaders released: As agreed in the negotiations with the Maoist-affiliated All Nepal Trade Union Federation (ANTUF), the government has released two ANTUF leaders.
» Kathmandu suburb: Security forces have killed a Maoist rebel during a a shootout in Thali.
» AI calls: In a open letter Amnesty International (AI) - Asia Pacific has asked the CPN-Maoist to immediately free 12 persons abducted from different places at different times. Ealrier this month AI has published a open letter to the Royal Nepalese Army asking information on the whereabouts of disappeared Maoists.
» Abductions: Maoists have abducted several activists of Nepali Congress and Nepali Congress (Democratic) for holding a "political consultation" in Jhapa.
» Chitwan strike : Maoist activists have set vehicles on fire to enforce their call for day-long strike. The Maoists want to protest against the killings of their comrades by security personnel.
» U.S. Peace Corps: 84 volunteers of U.S. Peace Corps have left Nepal duet to threats by the Maoist rebels. Peace Corps volunteers in Nepal have been working in the health, sanitation, teaching, water and forestry fields.
» Abduction: UNICEF Nepal has expressed concern over the abduction of one of their employees by Maoist rebels in Dadeldhura.
September 21
2004
» Peace talks : The government is likely to invite the Maoist rebels for fresh rounds of talks before Dashain. This year's Dashain begins from October 15. CPN (Maoist) supremo Prachanda said earlier this month that his party want to talk with the masters (i.e. the King, the Army, India and the U.S.A.) not with their servants (i.e. the present government). "This government has no authority to hold negotiations.", the Maoist spokesman said.
» Peace Day: The International Day of Peace was observed across the country. In Kathmandu only some hundreds of participants have followed the programmes.
» Bhojpur: The Maoist rebels have abducted over 50 students.
» Foreign intervention: CPN (Maoist) is serious towards prospects of increase in foreign intervention in Nepal as the ongoing conflict intensifies.
» Sindhupalchowk: Parents, students, teachers, journalists and human rights activists have protested in a rally against the indefinite closure of educational institutions called by Maoist 's ANNFSU-R.
» Gorkha: Parents, students and teachers will resist the Maoist's order to close their Nepali financed Christian school. Sphere: Related Content
Daily Times Pakistan:: Maoists call two-day strike in Nepal
KATHMANDU NEPAL: Maoist rebels fighting to overthrow Nepal’s monarchy on Monday called a two-day strike next week during one of the most popular festivals in the tourism-dependent Himalayan kingdom.
A rebel statement demanded that all shops and schools close and traffic stay off the roads on September 27 and 28 in most of Nepal including the capital Kathmandu. The statement said the strike would not affect celebrations of the five-day Kumari festival, which marks the start of the harvest. But the strike’s first day is a public holiday for the opening of the festival when the Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a goddess, is paraded by chariot through Kathmandu to a crowd of thousands including King Gyanendra and foreign tourists.
The king traditionally goes again to the goddess’s temple to seek her blessings on the festival’s final day. “The Kumari festival is one of the most important events in Kathmandu and the strike during the festival will hurt the hotel and tourism industries,” said Narendra Bajracharya, president of the Hotel Association of Nepal. Tourism supports 1.25 million jobs in the cash-strapped country of Mount Everest.
The kingdom has already seen a tumultuous month, with riots on September 1 after the murder of 12 Nepalese workers by Islamic militants in Iraq which came on the heels of a week long Maoist blockade against traffic entering or leaving Kathmandu. The Maoists last week ended a one-month shutdown of 47 industries after the government released two top rebels and the companies opened talks on improving conditions for their workers. afp Sphere: Related Content
A rebel statement demanded that all shops and schools close and traffic stay off the roads on September 27 and 28 in most of Nepal including the capital Kathmandu. The statement said the strike would not affect celebrations of the five-day Kumari festival, which marks the start of the harvest. But the strike’s first day is a public holiday for the opening of the festival when the Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a goddess, is paraded by chariot through Kathmandu to a crowd of thousands including King Gyanendra and foreign tourists.
The king traditionally goes again to the goddess’s temple to seek her blessings on the festival’s final day. “The Kumari festival is one of the most important events in Kathmandu and the strike during the festival will hurt the hotel and tourism industries,” said Narendra Bajracharya, president of the Hotel Association of Nepal. Tourism supports 1.25 million jobs in the cash-strapped country of Mount Everest.
The kingdom has already seen a tumultuous month, with riots on September 1 after the murder of 12 Nepalese workers by Islamic militants in Iraq which came on the heels of a week long Maoist blockade against traffic entering or leaving Kathmandu. The Maoists last week ended a one-month shutdown of 47 industries after the government released two top rebels and the companies opened talks on improving conditions for their workers. afp Sphere: Related Content
The Hindu News Update Service :: Massive rally in Nepal against Maoist Insurgency
Kathmandu, Sept 21. (PTI): Thousands of people gathered here on occasion of the international peace day to protest against the continuing violence in the Himalayan Kingdom and pray for over 10,000 killed so far in the nine-year-long Maoist insurgency.
Students, teachers, journalists, businessmen, artists and politicians took part in the gathering in Basantpur area of the capital wearing T-shirts with the slogan "Oppose Violence, Commit for Peace."
They were joined by Buddhist monks and Hindu priests.
A host of speakers jointly urged for restoring peace and rejecting violence as means to attain political objective.
The speakers asked the Maoists to lay down arms and join the political mainstream adding that further escalation of violence would inevitably invite foreign interference.
On Monday, some 1,500 people took part in a joint prayer meeting held at Maitighar by lighting candles in the memory of people killed across the country in the Maoist conflict.
Maoist rebels, who say they're inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong, have been fighting since 1996 to abolish Nepal's constitutional monarchy.
The government has labelled them as terrorists. Sphere: Related Content
Students, teachers, journalists, businessmen, artists and politicians took part in the gathering in Basantpur area of the capital wearing T-shirts with the slogan "Oppose Violence, Commit for Peace."
They were joined by Buddhist monks and Hindu priests.
A host of speakers jointly urged for restoring peace and rejecting violence as means to attain political objective.
The speakers asked the Maoists to lay down arms and join the political mainstream adding that further escalation of violence would inevitably invite foreign interference.
On Monday, some 1,500 people took part in a joint prayer meeting held at Maitighar by lighting candles in the memory of people killed across the country in the Maoist conflict.
Maoist rebels, who say they're inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong, have been fighting since 1996 to abolish Nepal's constitutional monarchy.
The government has labelled them as terrorists. Sphere: Related Content
:: C P N (M a o i s t) O N L I N E ::
This is the "unofficial" website for the Communist Maoist at GeoCities.
Sphere: Related Content
Consular Section - Public Announcement - September 15, 2004
In light of the ongoing Maoist violence in Nepal, American citizens are encouraged to monitor this page and to consider the current local situation before planning travel to or within the Kingdom. The Bureau of Consular Affairs web site contains additional information about other countries, as well as a copy of the current Worldwide Caution issued by the Department of State. The Bureau of Consular Affairs web site also contains recent Travel Warning on Nepal.
The following is the latest security advice from the Embassy in Kathmandu:
The great seal
Important Security Information for American Citizens in Nepal
The Department of State has approved the Ambassador’s recommendation that family members of Embassy staff be allowed to leave Nepal. In addition, non-essential staff members who wish to do so can also request to leave. The Director of the Peace Corps has approved the temporary suspension of all Peace Corps programs and all Peace Corps volunteers are being withdrawn. The Embassy strongly urges all American citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance and to maintain a low profile. If you have any questions, please call the Embassy at 441-1179. During non-business hours, please call the Embassy and ask for the Duty Consular Officer.
The Embassy would also like to draw your attention to the following new Travel Warning issued by the Department of State on September 13:
“1. This Travel Warning is being issued to alert Americans to continuing security concerns in Nepal. On September14, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and family members of the U.S. Embassy on a voluntary basis, and the Peace Corps temporarily suspended all operations in Nepal. This supersedes the Travel Warning dated July 21, 2004.
2. The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to defer non-essential travel to Nepal. Maoist supreme commander Prachanda issued a press statement on July 1, 2004,threatening to use "more violent means" if peace talks with the Government of Nepal are not forthcoming or are unsuccessful. The Embassy has received information that the Maoists may attempt to attack or take actions specifically against U.S. citizens as part of that contingency, particularly in regions of the country under Maoist control. On September 10, two bombs exploded at the American Center compound. There were no injuries, but the blasts damaged the facility.
3. The Department of State has designated the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) as a Terrorist Organization under the "Terrorist Exclusion List" of the Immigration and Nationality Act and under Executive Order 13224. These two designations make Maoists excludable from entry into the United States and bars U.S. citizens from transactions such as contribution of funds, goods, or services to, or for the benefit of the Maoists.
4. On a number of occasions, Maoists have burned or bombed tourist resorts after the foreigners staying there were given short notice to evacuate. Maoists also detonate bombs periodically within Kathmandu itself. Several bombs have exploded in Thamel, a tourist hub.
5. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid road travel outside the Kathmandu Valley unless they have reliable information that they can proceed safely in specific areas at specific times. In March 2004, Maoist leaders announced road closures (blockades) in certain western and southern districts of Nepal. However, the Embassy received widespread reports of Maoists forcibly blocking major roads throughout the country, including roads to Tibet, India, Chitwan, Pokhara, and Jiri. In late Spring 2004,Maoists forcibly blocked all traffic in areas surrounding Pokhara, preventing the departure of tourists for an extended period and causing some to miss their international flights from Kathmandu. Other district centers have been blockaded without warning. U.S. citizens are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for the latest security information, and to travel by air whenever possible.
6. Because of heightened security risks, U.S. official personnel do not generally travel by road outside the Kathmandu Valley. All official travel outside Kathmandu Valley, including by air, requires specific clearance by the Regional Security Officer. As a result, emergency assistance to U.S. citizens may be limited. Active duty military and DoD contractors must obtain a country clearance for official and unofficial travel to Nepal.
7. U.S. citizens who travel or reside in Nepal despite this Travel Warning should factor the potential for violence into their plans, avoid public demonstrations and maintain low profiles while in Nepal. U.S. citizens are urged to register with the Consular Section of the Embassy by accessing the Embassy's home page at http://www.south-asia.com/USA, by e-mail to WardenKTM@state.gov, or by personal appearance at the Embassy. The U.S. Embassy is located at Pani Pokhari in Kathmandu, telephone (977) (1) 441-1179; fax (977) (1) 444-4981. The Consular Section can provide updated information on travel and security.
8. U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for Nepal and Worldwide Caution Public Announcement via the Internet on the Department of State's home page at http://travel.state.gov or by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).”
Sphere: Related Content
The following is the latest security advice from the Embassy in Kathmandu:
The great seal
Important Security Information for American Citizens in Nepal
The Department of State has approved the Ambassador’s recommendation that family members of Embassy staff be allowed to leave Nepal. In addition, non-essential staff members who wish to do so can also request to leave. The Director of the Peace Corps has approved the temporary suspension of all Peace Corps programs and all Peace Corps volunteers are being withdrawn. The Embassy strongly urges all American citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance and to maintain a low profile. If you have any questions, please call the Embassy at 441-1179. During non-business hours, please call the Embassy and ask for the Duty Consular Officer.
The Embassy would also like to draw your attention to the following new Travel Warning issued by the Department of State on September 13:
“1. This Travel Warning is being issued to alert Americans to continuing security concerns in Nepal. On September14, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and family members of the U.S. Embassy on a voluntary basis, and the Peace Corps temporarily suspended all operations in Nepal. This supersedes the Travel Warning dated July 21, 2004.
2. The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to defer non-essential travel to Nepal. Maoist supreme commander Prachanda issued a press statement on July 1, 2004,threatening to use "more violent means" if peace talks with the Government of Nepal are not forthcoming or are unsuccessful. The Embassy has received information that the Maoists may attempt to attack or take actions specifically against U.S. citizens as part of that contingency, particularly in regions of the country under Maoist control. On September 10, two bombs exploded at the American Center compound. There were no injuries, but the blasts damaged the facility.
3. The Department of State has designated the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) as a Terrorist Organization under the "Terrorist Exclusion List" of the Immigration and Nationality Act and under Executive Order 13224. These two designations make Maoists excludable from entry into the United States and bars U.S. citizens from transactions such as contribution of funds, goods, or services to, or for the benefit of the Maoists.
4. On a number of occasions, Maoists have burned or bombed tourist resorts after the foreigners staying there were given short notice to evacuate. Maoists also detonate bombs periodically within Kathmandu itself. Several bombs have exploded in Thamel, a tourist hub.
5. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid road travel outside the Kathmandu Valley unless they have reliable information that they can proceed safely in specific areas at specific times. In March 2004, Maoist leaders announced road closures (blockades) in certain western and southern districts of Nepal. However, the Embassy received widespread reports of Maoists forcibly blocking major roads throughout the country, including roads to Tibet, India, Chitwan, Pokhara, and Jiri. In late Spring 2004,Maoists forcibly blocked all traffic in areas surrounding Pokhara, preventing the departure of tourists for an extended period and causing some to miss their international flights from Kathmandu. Other district centers have been blockaded without warning. U.S. citizens are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for the latest security information, and to travel by air whenever possible.
6. Because of heightened security risks, U.S. official personnel do not generally travel by road outside the Kathmandu Valley. All official travel outside Kathmandu Valley, including by air, requires specific clearance by the Regional Security Officer. As a result, emergency assistance to U.S. citizens may be limited. Active duty military and DoD contractors must obtain a country clearance for official and unofficial travel to Nepal.
7. U.S. citizens who travel or reside in Nepal despite this Travel Warning should factor the potential for violence into their plans, avoid public demonstrations and maintain low profiles while in Nepal. U.S. citizens are urged to register with the Consular Section of the Embassy by accessing the Embassy's home page at http://www.south-asia.com/USA, by e-mail to WardenKTM@state.gov, or by personal appearance at the Embassy. The U.S. Embassy is located at Pani Pokhari in Kathmandu, telephone (977) (1) 441-1179; fax (977) (1) 444-4981. The Consular Section can provide updated information on travel and security.
8. U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for Nepal and Worldwide Caution Public Announcement via the Internet on the Department of State's home page at http://travel.state.gov or by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).”
Sphere: Related Content
Maoists abduct over forty students and teachers, kill two civilians
The Maoists on Friday abducted forty students and six teachers from Kantheswar High School of Tokharpur VDC in Ramechhap district Nepal, reports said Monday.
The rebels have taken the abducted students and teachers to some unknown place in the neighbouring Kavre district to give them 'militia training'.
The parents, the school family, political parties and rights activists have appealed to the Maoist rebels to immediately release the abducted students and teachers.
Meanwhile, Maoist rebels have shot dead one civilian each in Rupandehi and Siraha district on Sunday evening.
In Rupendehi the rebels shot Prem Bahadur Darlami who later died in a hospital in Rupandehi while Ram Prasad Yadav was shot and killed at Shiv Chowk of Siraha district. Yadav, who was a former DDC member of Siraha district, was also a local Rashtriya Prajatantra Party leader.
The Maoists accused both Yadav and Darlami of spying against them. nepalnews.com Sphere: Related Content
The rebels have taken the abducted students and teachers to some unknown place in the neighbouring Kavre district to give them 'militia training'.
The parents, the school family, political parties and rights activists have appealed to the Maoist rebels to immediately release the abducted students and teachers.
Meanwhile, Maoist rebels have shot dead one civilian each in Rupandehi and Siraha district on Sunday evening.
In Rupendehi the rebels shot Prem Bahadur Darlami who later died in a hospital in Rupandehi while Ram Prasad Yadav was shot and killed at Shiv Chowk of Siraha district. Yadav, who was a former DDC member of Siraha district, was also a local Rashtriya Prajatantra Party leader.
The Maoists accused both Yadav and Darlami of spying against them. nepalnews.com Sphere: Related Content
Maoists abduct over 600 students, teachers in Syangja district headquarters of Nepal
The Maoists on Monday afternoon abducted over 600 students, teachers from two different secondary schools from the headquarters of Syangja district, Putali bazaar.
According to reports, the rebels took over 600 teachers and students from Kalika higher secondary school and Panchakanya secondary school to impart them about their regime's policies. They will be released after a weeklong Maoist's militia training, it is reported.
The inductees are reported to have been taken towards Deurali of neighbouring Parbat district. Meanwhile, the District Administration Officer of Sangja, Narayan Tripathi, denied knowledge about the incident.
Similarly in Bhojpur, parents and rights activists have appealed the Maoists to release over 60 students and teachers abducted last week for a similar trainings.
In Bajura, Maoists abducted over 300 students from different schools. The teaching-learning process has come to a halt in the area after the abductions, reports added. nepalnews.com pd Sep 21 04 Sphere: Related Content
According to reports, the rebels took over 600 teachers and students from Kalika higher secondary school and Panchakanya secondary school to impart them about their regime's policies. They will be released after a weeklong Maoist's militia training, it is reported.
The inductees are reported to have been taken towards Deurali of neighbouring Parbat district. Meanwhile, the District Administration Officer of Sangja, Narayan Tripathi, denied knowledge about the incident.
Similarly in Bhojpur, parents and rights activists have appealed the Maoists to release over 60 students and teachers abducted last week for a similar trainings.
In Bajura, Maoists abducted over 300 students from different schools. The teaching-learning process has come to a halt in the area after the abductions, reports added. nepalnews.com pd Sep 21 04 Sphere: Related Content
March for peace in Nepal's capital
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
March for peace in Nepal's capital
KATMANDU, Nepal (AP) - Thousands rallied for peace in the heart of Nepal's capital on Tuesday, pleading for an end to the Maoist insurgency that has killed more than 10,000 people in this Himalayan kingdom.
Buddhist monks and Hindu priests chanted religious songs while schoolchildren joined artists, teachers, lawyers, doctors, journalists, human rights activists and business executives at the Katmandu rally.
At least 6,000 demonstrators, carrying banners saying "We want peace'' and "Give up violence and work to build the country,'' gathered to pray for peace.
The demonstrators urged both the government and Maoist guerrillas - who've been fighting for eight years to set up a communist state - to resolve the conflict through dialogue.
The government has repeatedly urged the rebels to come for peace talks in the past few weeks.
The rebels, however, say talks are possible only if the United Nations is involved.
However, the government has ruled out third-party involvement in the talks.
"The people want peace and end to the violence. And this is the only way we the people can pressure the two sides to cease fighting and resume peace talks,'' said lawyer Sunil Shrestha, who was at the rally with his 5-year-old son.
Fighting has heated up since the Maoists dropped peace talks in August 2003, ending a seven-month cease-fire.
The rebels, who say they're inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong, have been fighting since 1996 to abolish Nepal's constitutional monarchy. Sphere: Related Content
March for peace in Nepal's capital
KATMANDU, Nepal (AP) - Thousands rallied for peace in the heart of Nepal's capital on Tuesday, pleading for an end to the Maoist insurgency that has killed more than 10,000 people in this Himalayan kingdom.
Buddhist monks and Hindu priests chanted religious songs while schoolchildren joined artists, teachers, lawyers, doctors, journalists, human rights activists and business executives at the Katmandu rally.
At least 6,000 demonstrators, carrying banners saying "We want peace'' and "Give up violence and work to build the country,'' gathered to pray for peace.
The demonstrators urged both the government and Maoist guerrillas - who've been fighting for eight years to set up a communist state - to resolve the conflict through dialogue.
The government has repeatedly urged the rebels to come for peace talks in the past few weeks.
The rebels, however, say talks are possible only if the United Nations is involved.
However, the government has ruled out third-party involvement in the talks.
"The people want peace and end to the violence. And this is the only way we the people can pressure the two sides to cease fighting and resume peace talks,'' said lawyer Sunil Shrestha, who was at the rally with his 5-year-old son.
Fighting has heated up since the Maoists dropped peace talks in August 2003, ending a seven-month cease-fire.
The rebels, who say they're inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong, have been fighting since 1996 to abolish Nepal's constitutional monarchy. Sphere: Related Content
Monday, September 20, 2004
Maoists abduct 40 students, 6 teachers in Ramechhap Nepal
Maoists abduct 40 students, 6 teachers in Ramechhap District of Nepal
KATHMANDU, NEPAL Sept 20 2004-
Continuing their abduction spree, Maoists have abducted at least forty students and six teachers in Ramechhap district of Nepal.
Our Ramechap correspondent quoting a local man reports the Maoists had abducted the teachers and students belonging to Kantheswar High School located at Tokharpur VDC in the district on last Friday.
The abducted students and teachers were taken to Kabre district via Lakhaanpur VDC eyewitnesses said. The Maoists have not specified any reasons for abducting them.
The school has been shut down following the incident.
Meanwhile, various political parties and civic societies in the district have appealed the Maoists to release the abductees immediately reported our correspondent. (hbt)
Sphere: Related Content
KATHMANDU, NEPAL Sept 20 2004-
Continuing their abduction spree, Maoists have abducted at least forty students and six teachers in Ramechhap district of Nepal.
Our Ramechap correspondent quoting a local man reports the Maoists had abducted the teachers and students belonging to Kantheswar High School located at Tokharpur VDC in the district on last Friday.
The abducted students and teachers were taken to Kabre district via Lakhaanpur VDC eyewitnesses said. The Maoists have not specified any reasons for abducting them.
The school has been shut down following the incident.
Meanwhile, various political parties and civic societies in the district have appealed the Maoists to release the abductees immediately reported our correspondent. (hbt)
Sphere: Related Content
Over 11,000 killed in Nepal due to Maoist Communists
Kathmanduties (Kathmandu, Nepal) on Monday September 20, 2004 gathered at Maitighar Mandal to light the candles for peace in the memory of those killed during the last eight years’ of conflict in their country since the communists have attempted to take-over.
Photo : Narendra Shrestha
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Candles for peace: Nepalis mourn their over 11,000 dead since the Maoist launched their war
Hundreds of concerned citizens from various walks of life lit thousands of candles at Mandala of the Maitighar - Thapathali cross-section in the capital, Kathmandu, Monday evening in memory of nearly eleven thousand Nepalis killed in the nine-year-old conflict.
They also observed silence in memory of departed souls.
The programme was organized under the banner "Campaign against violence." Hundreds of people prayed for peace at the same venue early Tuesday - the
International Day for Peace.
"Violence no more is an incident in our country. It is gradually becoming a culture. Hence, to protest against the culture and exhibit our commitment towards peace we have organised this solemn ceremony," Kedar Sharma, a journalist and one of the organizers of the event, told Nepalnews.
According to various estimates, over 11,000 Nepalis have lost their lives in the deadly conflict after the CPN (Maoist) launched 'people's war' in February 1996. Of them, more than 6,500 were killed over the last one year alone, after the second round of peace talks broke off in August 2003.
"We don't have parliament now. Political structure has been dismantled and every sector of the society has been affected as the political process remains disrupted," said Krishna Pahadi, a leading human rights activist and chairman of Human Rights and Peace Society (HURPES).
"There is a situation of lawlessness and there is no presence of the government in nearly 8o percent territory of the country. Worse, successive governments themselves are promoting the culture of violence," said Pahadi, at a programme organised in the capital Sunday.
Thousands of people have been displaced, thousands others have left their villages to work as cheap laborers across the border in India while hundreds of others have left their motherland to work in dangerous zones like Iraq.
"It is all because of violence back home that people are risking their own lives abroad," said Surendra Mali, a Kathmandu resident, who hasn't been able to come to terms with the violent behaviour of otherwise peaceful Nepalis on September 1.
Thousands of youths took to the streets, targeted mosques, media houses, manpower agencies and international airlines in the name of protesting against the killing of 12 Nepalis in Iraq.
"Violence begets violence. The only answer to violence is love and peace," said Chintamani Yogi, a peace activist and principal of Hindu Vidyapeeth Nepal. But as both the government and rebels prepare for even more fierce battle by augmenting their weapons and manpower, the country seems to be heading towards even more destruction and senseless violence.
"There is the need for people to actively intervene in the present state of affairs and pressurize both the parties in conflict to put aside guns and sit for negotiations," said Sushil Pyakuryal, member of National Human Rights Commission. "There is a need to maintain and build on the pressure being generated by students, teachers, guardians and trade union activists," he added.
As the violence has started affecting every aspect of socio-economic life, the people of Kathmandu-otherwise considered passive on political issues-have started coming out on the streets pledging for peace. As the Nepalis mourn for their thousands of fellow countryment, their conviction for restoration of peace and people's democratic rights seems to be getting stronger by the day. nepalnews.com by Sep 21 04 Sphere: Related Content
They also observed silence in memory of departed souls.
The programme was organized under the banner "Campaign against violence." Hundreds of people prayed for peace at the same venue early Tuesday - the
International Day for Peace.
"Violence no more is an incident in our country. It is gradually becoming a culture. Hence, to protest against the culture and exhibit our commitment towards peace we have organised this solemn ceremony," Kedar Sharma, a journalist and one of the organizers of the event, told Nepalnews.
According to various estimates, over 11,000 Nepalis have lost their lives in the deadly conflict after the CPN (Maoist) launched 'people's war' in February 1996. Of them, more than 6,500 were killed over the last one year alone, after the second round of peace talks broke off in August 2003.
"We don't have parliament now. Political structure has been dismantled and every sector of the society has been affected as the political process remains disrupted," said Krishna Pahadi, a leading human rights activist and chairman of Human Rights and Peace Society (HURPES).
"There is a situation of lawlessness and there is no presence of the government in nearly 8o percent territory of the country. Worse, successive governments themselves are promoting the culture of violence," said Pahadi, at a programme organised in the capital Sunday.
Thousands of people have been displaced, thousands others have left their villages to work as cheap laborers across the border in India while hundreds of others have left their motherland to work in dangerous zones like Iraq.
"It is all because of violence back home that people are risking their own lives abroad," said Surendra Mali, a Kathmandu resident, who hasn't been able to come to terms with the violent behaviour of otherwise peaceful Nepalis on September 1.
Thousands of youths took to the streets, targeted mosques, media houses, manpower agencies and international airlines in the name of protesting against the killing of 12 Nepalis in Iraq.
"Violence begets violence. The only answer to violence is love and peace," said Chintamani Yogi, a peace activist and principal of Hindu Vidyapeeth Nepal. But as both the government and rebels prepare for even more fierce battle by augmenting their weapons and manpower, the country seems to be heading towards even more destruction and senseless violence.
"There is the need for people to actively intervene in the present state of affairs and pressurize both the parties in conflict to put aside guns and sit for negotiations," said Sushil Pyakuryal, member of National Human Rights Commission. "There is a need to maintain and build on the pressure being generated by students, teachers, guardians and trade union activists," he added.
As the violence has started affecting every aspect of socio-economic life, the people of Kathmandu-otherwise considered passive on political issues-have started coming out on the streets pledging for peace. As the Nepalis mourn for their thousands of fellow countryment, their conviction for restoration of peace and people's democratic rights seems to be getting stronger by the day. nepalnews.com by Sep 21 04 Sphere: Related Content
Saturday, September 18, 2004
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