Maoist strike cripples life in Nepal, 37 held

Kathmandu, Dec 20: A Maoist-enforced anti-government general strike disrupted normal life across Nepal on Sunday, Dec 20.

Markets, educational institutions and businesses remained shut and supporters of the former rebels were disrupting vehicular movement, leading to the arrest of at least 37 protesters.

Maoist cadres also forced the Kalimati Vegetable and Fruits Market, the main supply centre of Kathmandu, not to operate during the shutdown.

Over 16 vehicles were vandalised by protesters in Kathmandu and outside districts.

Schools, colleges, major markets and most of the factories remained closed and vehicular movement halted during the strike.

However, police vans, tourist buses, ambulances and press vehicles were seen on roads amid tight security.

In Kathmandu, police arrested at least two dozen people from the Pashupatinath temple area as they were trying to force the shops to shut down.

This is the third shutdown called by the former rebels within a month, demanding restoration of 'civilian supremacy.'

OneIndia News