Demonstrator killed, Chitwan declared 'republic district'

Kathmandu, Apr 8 (UNI) Nepali troops fired at pro-democracy demonstrators, killing one, in western town of Pokhara as the protest of the seven political parties continued on the third day today.

The situation was tense after a pro-democracy activist Bhimsen Dahal was shot dead by Royal Nepalese army, the parties said. Two others were also injured in the incident.

Thousands of people were taking part in pro-democracy rallies in Pokhara chanting slogans against the Nepal King. Despite the imposition of curfew and ban on public gathering, demonstrations were being held in various parts of the country, the parties said.

The seven political parties have postponed the preplanned big gathering in Kathmandu today due to curfew and said the programme will be held tomorrow.

In Chitwan, the suporters of democracy have declared the Chitwan district a ''republic region''. Chitwan is in the centre of Nepal joining Kathmandu from east and west of the country.

More than 50 thousand protestors took to the streets in Chitwan, chanting slogans against the King and in favour of republicanism, Kantipur, a leading media of the Himalayan nation, reported.

The protestors chased away the security personnel and took under control all administrative offices, Kantipur said.

Over 150 persons were injured when the security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the demonstrators, added Kantipur.

Thousands of protestors assembled at Chaubiskothi, Narayangadh bazaar. Chanting anti-monarchy slogans, they said ''Chitwan has become the first republic district in the country.'' Demonstrations were also being held in Kathmandu despite the curfew and heavy presence of security forces, who are ordered to shoot at sight those who defy the curfew.

Students and local people have taken out rallies in Kirtipur area in Kathmandu and security forces were chased from there.

The government has ordered curfew from 1000 HRS to 21 HRS Local Time today to disrupt the demonstration of the Political parties.

UNI XC SI RAI1940