Nepal police fire on Madhesi protesters, 5 wounded

KATHMANDU, Feb 4 (Reuters) Police today opened fire on thousands of ethnic Madhesi protesters demanding autonomy in southeast Nepal, wounding at least five people, officials and witnesses said.

Angry demonstrations by supporters of the Madhesi People's Rights Forum, a group that represents people living in Nepal's southern plains, have hit the impoverished Himalayan nation leaving at least 15 people dead over the past fortnight.

The protests have also clouded peace moves between the government and Maoists aimed at ending a decade-old conflict, which has killed more than 13,000 people.

Today's clash took place in Birgunj, a commercial and business hub 60 km southeast of Kathmandu, after tens of thousands of protesters tried to march towards the main government building in the town.

''Police had to open fire in self defence as protesters tried to storm the district administration office,'' Shambhu Koirala, chief administrator of Birgunj, said.

Witnesses said protesters shouting ''Long Live Madhesi Unity!'' and ''Fulfil the genuine demands of the Madhesi people!'' were carrying bamboo sticks and spears as they marched.

In Biratnagar, home town of Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, protesters beat up local journalists, Nepali television channels reported. Authorities said at least three towns were under curfew today.

The Madhesi group says ''ruling elites'' dominated by people from the northern hills have kept them out of jobs in the government, police and army, and seats in Nepal's interim parliament.

They want an autonomous region for the southern plains within a federal state.

The government says it is ready for talks but protest leaders insist Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula, whom they accuse of using excessive force, must resign before any negotiations take place.

REUTERS SSC RN1730