CPM demands release of leaders by King in Nepal

New Delhi, Apr 7 (UNI) The Communist Party of India (Marxist) today denounced the crackdown on pro-democracy movement in Nepal and demanded the release of jailed leaders.

CPI (M) polit bureau said the King's regime should release all those arrested in connection with the four-day general strike by a seven-party political alliance for restoration of democracy in the Himalayan kingdom.

''The repression unleashed by the King will not deter the popular movement to end his authoritarian rule,'' said a statement by the polit bureau.

The party also demanded the release of Communist Party of Nepal (ML) General Secretary Madhav Nepal who was arrested along with hundreds of other leaders and activists.

The CPI (M) also urged the Indian government to demand an end to all repressive actions by the King and said if it failed, other steps should be taken to make the King realise that he cannot continue with his present course of action.

The four-day general strike began yesterday in Nepal to force the King to restore democracy.

UNI FZ CH RS1609