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Maoists enforce bandh in three districts; Prachanda asks govt to clarify arms episode

The Maoists enforced bandh (shutdown strike) in Rupandehi, Nawalpasari and Kapilvastu districts on Tuesday to protest what they call clandestine import of arms from India last night.

Main bazaars, educational institutions and highways in these three districts were closed as the Maoist cadres staged angry protests at several places.

Butwal particularly remained tense with the cadres of the Maoist-aligned Young Communist League (YCL) clashing with riot police during their demonstration. Reports said YCL's street protest started early morning in Butwal and continued till evening.

The Maoists were angered by the "mysterious import of arms" by the police force at a time when the nation is preparing for a crucial vote on April 10.

Their anger intensified after police forcefully freed two trucks from Yogikuti area at around 3:30 am in the morning from the clutches of YCL.

YCL cadres led by Maoist central leaders Devendra Poudel and Bamdev Chhetri had seized the trucks on Monday night.

The trucks were coming from Sunauli border point into Nepal. Officials have claimed that it contained logistics for Armed Police Force (APF).

The Maoist cadres also organised protests in Kathmandu against alleged import of arms which, if true, breaches the comprehensive peace agreement.

Meanwhile, talking to reporters in Biratnagar, Maoist chairman Prachanda has asked the government to clarify about the arms import episode. He said he has already talked with Home Minister regarding the issue.

Home Minister Krishna Sitaula, on the other hand, said the government will sort out the issue at central level.

Home Secretary Umesh Mainali urged all concerned not to create any disruption over this episode since the trucks were only carrying logistics for police personnel. nepalnews.com sd/mk Mar 25 08