Pro-democracy activists defy curfew orders, dozens arrested; situation remains tense (12:35 p. m.)
In what is seen as growing defiance by the pro-democracy activists, dozens of opposition activists have courted arrest by defying the curfew orders imposed by the government in parts of the capital valley.
According to the valley coordination committee of the CPN (UML), police took into custody one dozen pro-UML student leaders including president of ANNFSU Khimlal Bhattarai, general secretary Thakur Gaire, Secretary Yagya Raj Sunuwar, central committee members Narayan Basnet and Suman Basnet as they were demonstrating at Bagh Bazar area at 10:45 a. m.
The curfew has been imposed in the capital valley since 10:00 this morning till 9:00 in the evening. The government has said shoot-at-sight orders have been issued authorizing security personnel to open fire at people who defy the curfew orders.
Reports say thousands of local people and students have assembled at Kirtipur defying curfew orders and demonstrating against the royal regime. Opposition parties have also taken out protest rallies in Bhaktapur and Lalitpur where curfew has been enforced.
According to CPN (UML), opposition activists have carried out demonstrations in Chabahil, Maitidevi, Gongabu, Baneswore, Min Bhavan and Teen Kune area by defying the curfew orders.
According to latest reports, police have resorted to baton charging and have fired teargas shells to control the crowd. The UML said narly a dozen opposition activists have been injured during police action.
The authorities have not said anything regarding the on-going protests despite the curfew orders.
The seniormost leaders of the seven party opposition alliance and former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala has appealed to the masses to defy curfew orders and continue peaceful demonstrations. The opposition parties had planned a huge rally at Basantapur, Hanuman Dhoka at 2:00 p. m. this afternoon. nepalnews.com by Apr 08 06
Related news
- Day-long curfew imposed in the capital valley
