Rallies in Nepal to demonstrate victory

Kathmandu, May 18 (UNI) Victory rallies were held across Nepal today as the people came to the streets in celebration following the endorsement of a ''landmark proclamation'' by Parliament today, slashing the powers of King Gyanendra.

People shouted slogans in front of Singh Durbar in favour of democracy despite the ban on public gatherings.

'' This is our victory, victory of all people against the autocratic monarchy,'' said the demonstrators.

There are reports of victory rallies all over the country including in Pokhara, Baglung, Chitwan, Biratnagar, Nepalgunj among others.

The parliament today stripped off the King from the title of supreme commander of the Army and cut off all his prerogative powers along with bringing the army under its control.

The decision on who should be made king and any law related to the royal palace will now vest with the Prime Minister.

Henceforth, his Majesty's government will be Nepal government, royal Nepal Army will be Nepal Army and Nepal will be a secular state not a Hindu Kingdom.

The King and his family members have to pay taxes on their personal property and the ''illegal acts'' of the King can be discussed in the parliament and question be raised in the courts.

Presenting the proclamation in Parliament, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala said if anyone dares to underestimate the House Proclamation 2063, they will face dire consequences.

''I appeal to all the people to raise their voices against those who attempt to undermine the proclamation,'' he urged.

He said this Proclamation had reflected the desire of the people and each and every word of the Proclamation was written with the blood of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives,'' he added.

Speaker of the House Subash Nemwang declared the endorsement of the proclamation after no one voted ''nay''.

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