India’s top BJP functionary meets PM Prachanda

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: NN Jha, top functionary of BJP, India’s main opposition waiting in to form a government after possible elections, held discussions with Prime Minister Prachanda Sunday, Janabhavana reports.
Jha is holding discussions with Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala before flying back to New Delhi Sunday following a four-day visit.
Jha held also discussions with Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav and former CPN-UML General Secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal.
Jha is in Nepal which if passing through a fluid political situation.
Jha is a foreign policy expert and advisor in the BJP and served in the Indian embassy in Kathmandu before retiring from the Indian foreign service.
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PM Prachanda hits back at Girija

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has hit back by Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala who has repeatedly accused Maoist and its chairman for breaking a political consensus derailing politics.
Prachand, instead, charged Girija for first breaking the consensus.
“This is very strange. Nepali Congress president Girija Prasad Koirala is a also very senior person who has also played a very important role in Nepali politics.
“I don’t to use unpleasant language against him. But if you have to ask who first broke Nepal’s process of political consensus, Nepali Congress tops the list, and sad to say, Girija Prasad Koirala.
Prachanda added Koirala presented conditions after the installation of the Maoist-led government breaking consensus politics for the first time.
Prachanda told this to Radio Nepal while reviewing the work of the government in its first 100 days.
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Nepal observes World AIDS day; foreign help misused

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: Nepal observed 20th World AIDS Day 2008 Monday amid reports only 13 percent of foreign donations is spent on treatment and control of the disease.
More than 70 percent money set aside for control and treatment is spent on publicity, Annapurna Post reports.
Government agencies aren’t monitoring contributions from foreign governments and INGOs.
Dr Rajendra Pant, Deputy Director of National AIDS and Venereal Disease Control agrees most money is spent on publicity.
“Time has come for some thought because money being spent on seminars and publicity is becoming counterproductive for the treatment and rehabilitation of targeted groups,” he said.
National HIV/AIDS Control Board Deputy Chairman Dr Sharad Want said there’s no authoritative and official data on the inflow of money for the control, treatment and rehabilitation.
‘Until now, no agency has kept a proper account of income and expenditure,” Dr Want said.
A report presented to the UN general assembly in 2007 sai $8.4 million was spent in Nepal for AIDS/HIV.
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POL prices being reduced for third time

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: For the third time in two months, prices of POL products are being reduced Wednesday after a review of price following a fall in petroleum prices in the international market.
Supply Minister Rajendra Mahoto revealed this Sunday.
But the city’s residents, who commute by taxis and other vehicles, haven’t benefited from twice-reduced reduced fares.
Drivers continue to charge old rates.
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Policeman injured in Rautahat blast

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: A policeman was injured in a rebels bombed the district police headquarters Sunday night at Rautahat,Gaur. During load-shedding.
Injured policeman Bhumochan Jha is undergoing treatment at hospital.
A person of Madeshi descent was killed in a bomb blast in Siraha overnight in escalating violence in the terai; an assailant was also killed by angry villagers.
Formal talks haven’t started between government and rebel groups to address the regional conflict though unofficial dialogue has started.
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Congress to finally pass parliamentary party statute

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: Main opposition Nepali Congress parliamentary party meets Monday to pass its statute which has to be approved by the central committee before being enforced.
The delayed statute is being approved after request for the name of the party’s leader in parliament by the constitutional council of which the opposition leader is an ex-officio member.
Without the representation of the opposition in the council, important appointments by it were delayed.
The approval of the statute will pave the way for the election of the party’s parliamentary leader.
Koirala said he is the leader.
Nobody is likely to challenge Koirala who said he’ll lead the party until effective psychological unity .
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Limbuwan strike continues

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: A strike called by Limbuwan autonomists hit nine eastern districts for the second consecutive day Monday disrupting normal activities.
The protestors are demanding implementation of a five-point agreement with government,
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Finance Minister Dr Bhattarai rebuffed by central bank

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: Finance Minister Baburam Bhattarai’s move to have his loyalists take over key positions in the Rashtra Bank and key financial institutions has failed, news front reports.
According to a key official in the government, Minister Bhattarai got a senior Finance Ministry official to tell the Governor of Rashtra Bank as well as the Board of Governors to quit without assigning any reason.
The members of the Board of Governors stiffly declined…
“We. The Board of Governors were appointed by an act of parliament and we took oath from Chief of Justice of the Supreme Court. We are not slaves to serve or resign at the pleasure of a finance minister,” Board member Dr Bishwambhar Pyakuryal told newsfront.
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Second Chinese military delegation arriving; president, prime minister likely to visit in April 2009

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 1 Dec: Another Chinese military delegation headed by Deputy Chief of Deputy Staff of the People’s Liberation Army Jiao Xian is also arriving this month , Sanghu reports.
He is leading a 10-memebr team that is arriving 6 December.
The first delegation led by Maj Gen Ei Hujeng arrived this month.
The Chinese foreign minister arrives Monday.
Either President Hu Jintao and Prime Minister Wen Jiabao
Will visit Nepal in April 2009, Weekly Mirror reports.
The series of visits by top Chinese officials are to pave the way for visits either by the president or the prime minister, China watchers said.
China and India are competing for influence in Nepal, situated on the southern lap of Tibet and the Himalaya.
Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee was in Nepal this month.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Nepal has been facing problems caused by Bhutanese and Tibetan refugees and at present refugees even from Somalia are drifting towards Nepal.”

(Home Minister Bamdeb Gautan, The Rising Nepal, 31 Nov.)

“We’re working with extra caution to prevent an India-style terrorist attack in Nepal. Government is capable of preventing such attacks and controlling it, even if it occurs. I ask all to remain confident.”

(Home Minister Bamdeb Gauatam, Gorkhapatra, 31 Nov.)

“It’s not possible to cohabitate with Maoists if they move ahead at this rate. CPN-UML is serious on this.”

(Former Deputy Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Rajdhani, 31 Nov.)

Top US diplomat for South Asia arriving
on last Nepal visit

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 31 Nov: Top US diplomat for South Asia, Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Richard Baucher, arrives 10 December for a brief visit, the foreign ministry said.
He will leave the next day after his last visit to the Himalayan state.
Baucher is a political appointee in the George W. Bush administration.
“Government expects some friendly message during the visit,” Annapurna Post quoted an unnamed foreign ministry as saying.
During the first administration, the Bush administration armed and trained Royal Nepal Army, creating a special forces battalion to crush the 10-year Maoist insurgency.
Sher Bahadur Deuba, next in line to succeed Girija Prasad Koirala in the main opposition Nepali Congress, was the first Nepali prime minister to be invited by a US president at the White House.
During Deuba’s tenure, Washington extended millions of dollars in military assistance to unsuccessfully quash the Maoist people’s war.
In his second administration, Bush reacted by suspending military assistance after a royal takeover by King Gyanendra; Maoists, without defeating the military on the battlefield, gained power through a movement supported by New Delhi, Washington and London.
The Bush administration hasn’t withdrawn the terrorist tag on the Maoists even after their election in April 2008.
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Maoists unlikely to return seized assets

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Will Maoists return seized assets?
Most likely not.
Nepali Congress has renewed the demand after abandoning it before the 10 April constituent assembly elections.
The demand has been renewed after the Congress received a drubbing in the assembly elections.
Central committee member CP Gajurel was asked by Chalphal weekly Sunday: There’s opposition to your [party] proposal for the state to compensate people whose assets have been seized:
His answer: “Everyone can go and see who is cultivating the land. Farmers are tilling it; are you going to collect compensation from farmers?
“From where will they pay compensation? Aren’t farmers from other parties? They are squatting on others’ land and
earning out a living.
Poorsouls. What are you going to recover from the farmers?
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British Army Chief discusses Gurkhas with Premier Prachanda

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Visiting British Army Chief Gen Sir Richard Dannatt held discussions with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda Sunday and discussed Gurkhas and other issues of bilateral interest.
The British army chief appreciated the historic change in Nepal and assured continued British assistance, state-owned Radio Nepal said.
After the meeting with the prime minister, he told reporters recruitment of Gurkhas in the British army will depend on the decision of the Nepalese government.
An estimated 300 Gurkhas are recruited every year mainly to fill in vacancies.
Gurkhas are currently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq with the British Army.
Great Britain has shown interest in the reorganization of Nepal Army after regime and government system change in Nepal after April 2005.
The visiting army chief called on President Dr Ram Baran Yadav.
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Commissions to investigate capital killings

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Government Sunday formed two separate judicial commissions to investigate murders of four youth and teenagers murders of the capital that have created resentment sending shockwaves.
Public resentment has swelled as Home Minister Bamdeb Gautam and his lackeys and party-CPN-UML-- praise him for what they call the capital’s improved law and order situation.
Gautam has prioritized removing vendors from the capital’s overcrowded streets and pavements; they are back on the streets though new space has been assigned for them at the open air theatre.
He has forced the closure of dance clubs and restaurants after 11 PM amid protests of management and workers.
A three-member commission headed by former supreme court judge Rajendra Kumar Bhandri has been formed to probe the abduction and murders of two youth in neighbouring Dhading and report with suggestions in one month.
Maoists have been charged for the murders.
A lower court judge Moti Raj Pandey heads another three-member commission to investigate the murders of two teenagers and report is 15 days with suggestions.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Girijababu is experiencing many new things after losing the presidential elections. Many say they reflect his anger. Any way, he’s having new experiences.”

(Dr Prakash Chandra Lohani, Deshantar, 30 Nov.)

‘This is just [Maoist] juggling with words. People’s , federal, loktantric, national democracy haven’t been explained. Priests used to confuse their jajaman by playing with words.MoNlyMaoists know know the trure; nobody else.”

(Dr Prakash Chandra Lohani, Deshantar, 30 Nov.)

Another shooting death in terai, one assassin pursued, killed

Kathmandu, 31 Nov: rebels shot dead another Madeshi in the teari overnight.
Deb Yadav, 32, was died in the shooting incident at Siraha at nine in the night,; Siraha, in central terai, is one of the worst districts affected by the insurgency in the south bordering India.
Five members of the Madesh Mukti Tigers shot dead Yadav.
Mohit Yadav, who shot dead Deb, after decamping form prison was chased and killed by villagers.
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Elephant polo at Chitwan Monday

Kathmandu, 31 Nov: Eight teams from Nepal, USA, England and Scotland are participating in a World Elephant Polo Championship in Meghauli, Chitwan, Monday.
The championship started in 1982.
The competition will be played on a field next to the airport servicing the Chitwan National Park, the home to the endangered tiger and the one-horned rhino.
Riding elephants, players try to score goals by hitting balls with long sticks through a goal posts.
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PM inaugurates human rights meet

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Prime Minister Prachanda Sunday
inaugurated a two-day consultative meeting of SAARC national human rights commissions.
The meeting is discussing the protection and promotion of child rights in the eight-nation South Asian region.
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Promiscuous Nepali society

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: According to a study, 67percent Nepali teens engage in sex before crossing 17 yearsof age, RSS reports.
Among the surveyed teens, only15 percent said they sued condoms during their first sex.
Around half of the teens said they had sexual relations with one or two female partners.
On girls’ side, around one third said they also had sex with one or two partners. The population of teens accounts for 33 percent of the total population in Nepal.
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No integration without dissolution of YCL: Girija

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Main Opposition leader Girija Prasad Koirala Sunday said he’ll stop integration of Maoist PLA and Nepal army until YCL is dissolved.
He told this to reporters in Kaski.
“Nobody has given YCL a right to kill and bury people,” Koirala said referring to abduction of two Kathmandu youth in neighbouring Dhading.
Koirala said in Pokhara he’ll never permit the integration of YCL and Nepal Army.
Meanwhile, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairman Kedar Upadhaya Sunday demanded youth forces affiliated with political parties should be dissolved.
The former chief justice, in a strong statement, said political parties are protecting criminal elements and added rule of law has been ridiculed.
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Makawanpur industries reopen

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Nearly 60 industries re-opened opened in Makwanpur Sunday after closure of several days. Management agreed to give Rs 1,300 to industrial workers as well after a pay hike for government officials.
Maoist unions pushed the demands.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Owners of big business houses are exasperated by the behaviour or a Danish woman at the Danish embassy. The wife of deputy chief of mission Peter has been asking for donations from them.”

(Chalphal, 30 Nov)

Limbuwan strike disrupts life in east

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: A strike in federal Limbuwan province disrupted life in nine districts in the east Sunday including transport service.
Markets in towns like Kakarvitta in the terai region were closed down.
Organizers of the protest accused government of not honouring past agreements.
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Further details of Girija speak at Pokhara

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Main opposition leader Girija Prasad Koirala Saturday mentioned Maoists 67 times in 23 minutes continuing his jihad in Pokhara against the CPN (Maoist) launched form his hometown two months ago.
“Poor Maoists! They’ve already drowned; I’ll save them now. They are lost in a verbal maze.
“Maoists are promise breakers. They make promises and break them. Now there won’t be any agreement with them.
He took their name 67 times in 23 minutes.
‘They nearly trapped me in their play of words; Prachanda himself is now entrapped.
“Let Maoists manage their PLA and YCL. Let them not effort politicization of the army,” Koirala told party workers at a national awareness campaign.
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Two suspects held for journalist murder

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: Police on Saturday arrested two persons in connection with the alleged murder of local journalist Jagat Joshi, The Kathmandu Post reports from Dhangadi.
Karan Raut and Prakash Raut, younger brothers of local businessman Lokendra Raut were arrested after family members lodged complaints with the police.
Lokendra Raut is at large.
Joshi, editor of Dhangadi edition of Janadisha, a vernacular daily and chairman of CPN-Maoist affiliated Kailali chapter of Association of Revolutionary Journalists, went missing on 8 Oct.
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Code of conduct being enforced for Maoist lawmakers this week

Kathmandu, 30 Nov: A code of conduce is being enforced for Maoist constituent assembly (CA) members that will make it difficult for them to wear expensive clothes, move around in expensive vehicles and carry mobile sets worth, more than Rs 10,000, Kantipur reports.
A code of conduct entitled ‘Proletariat thought behaviour ; strong implementation’ is being enforced this week.
It is prepared by Maoist CA Coordinator Post Bahadur Bogati.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Buses provided by India to ‘transport assembly members’ have been kept at the garage disused. People’s representatives to draft the constitution believe riding such buses with embossed Indian flag will adversely impact nationality.”

(Naya Patrika report, 30 Nov.)

“Because government is busy prioritizing its political agenda, it hasn’t succeeded in promoting a sense of change as per wishes of the people.”

(Government assessment of its first 100 days in office, Naya Patrika, 30 Nov.)

“Some anarchist groups in terai are out to make money.”

(Forum Chairman and Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav, Kantipur, 30 Nov.)
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Girija repeats same attack themes against Maoists

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 2 9 Nov: Girija Prasad Koirala Friday repeated Nepali Congress attack themes Maoists were not cooperating in drafting a constitution and he won’t permit integration of PLA with Nepal Army while addressing a national awareness campaign in Pokhara.
“Drafting the constitution is the main responsibility and the Congress will complete it in time; Maoists are sidelining it,” he charged.
Koirala said he won’t allow the good name of Nepal Army at home and abroad to be tarnished.
“I won’t permit integration of army until I am alive,” he told a well-attended rally in the report town of Pokhara.
Urban awareness campaigns- a jihad against Maoists- were held in Biratnagar, Birjung, Nepalgunj and will conclude in Mahendranagar.
Koirala accused Maoists for violating past agreements with other parties and asked they be honoured in letter and spirit and implemented.
In Pokhara, the home of Gurungs who are attracted to service in the British and Indian armies, Koirala said recruitment in foreign armies shouldn’t be stopped until alternative arrangements are made.
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Border alert after Mumbai attacks

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: Security at entry and exit points have been tightened with increased vigilance to prevent a spillover on terrorist violence to Nepal following Mumbai incidents, government
spokesman Krishna Bahadur Mahara said Saturday.
Fresh reports said nearly 150 persons were killed in the terrorist attacks.
Two Nepalese were injured.
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CA condemns Mumbai terror attacks

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: In an unanimous special resolution, the constituent assembly which also acts as parliament Friday ‘deplored and flayed the acts of terror’ targeting Mumbai.
The resolution was proposed by Speaker Subash Nemwang.
It called the attacks ‘cowardly’.
The meeting expressed sympathies to the Indian government, people of India and the families of victims.
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Remains of missing Maoist journalist found

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: Suspected body parts and belongings of Maoist journalist Jagat Prasad Joshi was found at Chaukidand [forest] in Dhangadi Friday.
Joshi had been missing for nearly 45 days.
Family members identified his mobile, clothes and other personal belongings.
Police are yet to conduct forensic tests.
Family members suspect Maoists killed Joshi.
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Darkness engulfs airport

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: Darkness engulfed Tribhuvan International Airport for one hour Friday disrupting incoming and outgoing flights.
A generator malfunctioned during load-shedding.
Regular flights of Qatar Airways and Gulf Air were affected.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Whether monarchy will be restored depends on the wishes of the people. If the people want monarchy, there are people who say there can be monarchy like in Great Britain, Japan and Thailand but not an active king.”

(Former raj sabha chairman Dr Kesharjung Rayamajhi, Janasatta, 29 Nov.)

Nepalese perspective
Cross-border terrorism, Nepal, India, Pakistan

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: The issue of cross-border terrorism in volatile South Asia has again gained international attention with Indian charges Pakistan was behind the devastating and deadly terror attacks on Mumbai killing at least 150 persons, including Americans and Israelis.
Pakistan denied the fresh New Delhi charges. Rawalpindi has leveled similar charges against India in the past.
The exchange of charges by the two Asian nuclear powers will continue.
India has charged Nepal for ignoring anti-India activities conducted by Pakistan’s dreaded ISI from the terai bordering the northern states of UP and Bihar—accusations denied by Nepal.
The Himalayan state has repeatedly assured its giant southern neighbour such activities won’t be tolerated. New Delhi has also accused Bangladesh for promoting cross-border terrorist activities.
If India is to be believed, it is ringed by three states in the north, east and west harbouring and exporting cross-border terrorism.
Coming back to Nepal, an Indian
court earlier this year returned two foreign nationals secretly extradited to India, without proper proceedings, after Nepal Police delivered them across the border at the request of India’s CBI.
The foreigners were charged for alleged involvement in bomb blasts that killed more 200 people in Mumbai before the latest blasts.
During the his concluded Nepal visit, Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee again pressed Nepal to sign an extradition treaty to handover suspects in Nepal allegedly involved in so-called anti-India activities.
The treaty was ready for signature during the one-party rule of ousted Girija Prasad Koirala but was stopped by Maoists when they joined a government under Koirala.
The Maoist-led government of Prime Minister Prachanda handled the Mukherjee cautiously.
The Prachanda government asked Mukherjee to curb what it calls the criminal activities of hundreds of rebels from the terai from across the border.
India has ignored the requests amid reports that state and federal officials have attended meetings of the rebel groups; some constituents of the alliance are pushing for cessation fo the terai plans from the hills.
These rebels have made India their base as New Delhi ignores repeated requests from Kathmandu to curb their activities and handover leaders to Nepal.
Prachanda famously said this year he spent eight of the 10 years of the people’s war in India and not the jungles of Nepal to topple King Gyanendra in April 2005.
Prachanda and his gang, declared terrorists by both India and Nepal, were moving around unhindered in India before emerging on the national scene to join the political mainstream.
Prachanda and Baburam Bhattarai were walking the corridors of power even as declared terrorists as India and political parties opposed to Gyanendra plotted the king’s overthrow.
Declared terrorists were nurtured by India and sent across the border to topple the king and monarchy in Nepal while New Delhi refused to negotiate with its own radical Maoist Naxalites on a rampage posing, according to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the most serious threat to India.
The threat, Singh, said was more serious that the insurgencies in Kashmir and the noth-east.

One elderly man shot dad in Bara

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: One elderly man was shot dead in Bara in continuing violence in the terai.
The 65-year old was shot dead near his field.
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Danish foreign minister meets president; other details

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Muller held bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda Saturday morning after warning delay in drafting a constitution will be a setback.
He held discussions Friday with Prachanda after parleys with President Dr Ram Baran Yadav and Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav.
“I’ve come here to study the political situation. The political process will receive a setback if the constitution isn’t drafted in time.
“Denmark expects the constitution drafting will be completed in time.
“We expect the problem seen in the army integration
will be resolved,” the foreign minister after meeing the president.
He said Denmark will help push the peace process.
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Nepal, China economic, technical cooperation agreement

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: Nepal and China will sign an economic, technical cooperation agreement during the three-day visit Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi will made from Tuesday, the foreign ministry said.
Yang will lead a 11-member delegation.
China is increasing annual economic assistance from Rs 880 to one billion rupees, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Suresh Prasad Pradhan said.
Foreign Minister Yang arrives immediately after a military delegation headed by Maj Gen Ei Hujeng returned home after military talks.
China has promised Rs 100 million in military assistance.
Yang is also arriving after the visit of Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee as India and China compete for influence in Nepal.
Premier Prachanda is to pay an official visit to China in 2009; two countries are finalizing dates.
Beijing is pushing for curbs of Free Tibet movement by Tibetan refugees in Nepal at a time when disgruntled Tibetan youth diaspora is pushing Tibetan independence.
In one week, the Maoist-led government of Prachanda has been visiting top political and military leaders form Great Britain, China, India, North Korea and Denmark.
Foreign visitors, except from Scandinavia, EU and India, stayed away from Nepal immediately after a April 2005 movement toppled Nepal’s 238-year-old monarchy.
Nepal is drawing attention of world capitals after Maoists emerged victorious in the 10 April CA election defeating established parliamentary parties.
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China withdraws from capital’s outer ring road project

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: China has withdrawn from the outer ring road project saying it won’t immediately invest in it, Dipak Dahal reports in Nepal Samacharpatra.
China was involved in preparing a detailed project report.
Construction is being launchd with private initiative.
China has withdrawn from the project to ease traffic congestion in the Valley when Maoists are leading the government.
Work on the outer ring road will start immediately with private initiative.
China constructed the inner ring road.
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Two Nepalis injured in Mumbai

Kathmandu, 29 Nov: Two Nepali workers have been injured in the terror attacks in Mumbai, the foreign ministry said.
Jagat Khadka and Bishnu Shahi from Accham were hit by bullets while coming out of a restaurant near Taj Hotel still under seize Saturday morning—four days after the attack.
At least half a dozen Nepalis working at the Taj and Oberoi hotel, freed by Indian paratroopers, are safe, earlier reports said.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda said tearing down the old administrative structure for him to move ahead was more difficult the people’s war.”

(Annapurna Post reports, 29 Nov.)

Maoist woman candidate elected CA vice-chairman

Kathmanndu, 28 Nov: Maoist woman candidate Purna Kumari Subedi was elected vice-chairman of the constituent assembly (CA) Friday by a majority 346 votes, an announcement said.
Altogether 505 members of the 601-member assembly voted.
Candidatures of five other contestants were rejected by majority vote; altogether five women contested; six candidates were in the fray.
Subedi was sworn in by Chairman Subash Nemwang after her election.
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Om Babadur Kuber elected

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Om Bahadur Kuber was elected Friday CA member on behalf of the CPN (Maoist).
The seat was vacated by Organization Chief Mohan Baidya Kiran to devote his time to party work.
Kuber, from Dang, was nominated by the party for the closed list.
His election was announced by the Election Commission on recommendation of the CPN (Maoist).
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60 industries closed in Makwanpur

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Altogether 60 industries in Makwanpur closed down Friday as workers affiliated with Maoist unions demanded increased salary commensurate with hikes announced three months for government employees.
Half a dozen industries are located outside he Hetauda Industrial Estate.
Some industries are running.
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Danish foreign minister arrives

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Danish Foreign Minister Dr Per Stig Moller, who arrived two days behind schedule, held separate discussions on bilateral issues with President Dr Ram Baran Yadav and Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav.
Moller flew in from Singapore; he flew to the island republic escorted by military aircraft from Bangkok en route to Kathmandu after being stranded in the Thai capital for two days.
Government opponents captured two airports disrupting flights.
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Congress anti-Maoist rally in Pokhara Saturday

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Senior leaders of Nepali Congress, including President Girija Prasad Koirala, arrived in Pokhara Friday to participate in Saturday’s anti-Maoist rally dubbed national awareness campaign.
Three other urban rallies were held in Biratnagar, Birgunj and Nepalgunj.
The main opposition has used the rallies to gather public support for a campaign against CPN (Maoist) charged for perceived authoritarian rule.
The honeymoon between Nepali Congress nurtured in 2004/2005 with Indian help snapped after Maoists defeated Koirala’s party in the 10 April CA elections.
Koirala was ousted from power by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda souring Prachanda/Koirala relations that may ultimately adversely impact national politics.
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Maoist candidate certain to be elected CA vice-chairman

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Maoist woman candidate
Purna Kumari Subedi is certain to be elected vice-chairman of the CA with the support of CPN-UML and at least two other parties in the 601-member assembly.
CPN-UML is the third largest party in the assembly and is a partner of the Maoists in government.
The election process has started; results will be announced later Friday.
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British army chief arrives

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Chef of Army Staff Gen Rukmangud Katawal held discussions with visiting Chief of the General Staff of the British Army Gen Sir Richard Dannatt.
Gen Dannatt arrived Friday for a visit confirming the restoration of ties between the armies of the two countries after April 2005.
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Unexpected wild buffalo calf birth at zoo


Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Birth of a wild buffalo calf has elated officials at the Central Zoo, The Kathmandu Post reports.
The calf was born to seven year-old mother Sharwani and her 17-year-old mate, Koshi, on Nov.9.
“The birth was unexpected as the bull was too old for breeding,” said Binab Karmacharya, veterinary doctor a the zoo.
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Maoists force closure of 44 industries in Hetauda

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Workers affiliated a Maoist union Friday demanding wages to match increases announced by government closed down with 44 industries at anindustrial estate in Hetauda.
A three-day workers’ ultimatum demanding increases ended overnight.
Workers were going around demanding the closure of other industrial units in the estate.
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Protest called off after govt., committee agreement

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Protests against the murder of two teenage students ended Friday morning following a five-point agreement between government and a struggle committee.
Protests continued for the second day in the morning as Prime Minister Prachanda and Home Minister Bamdeb Gautam held discussions with a civil struggle committee.
Government agreed to complete investigations, find out murders and punish them within 15 days.
Government committed itself to provide security in the Valley.
All schools remained closed for one day Friday in memory of the slain students.
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Tibetan refugees intensify anti-China movement

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: To attack Tibet even with the ultimate support of the New York , Tibetan refugees have again changed their Nepal policy, Nepalpatra reports.
A meeting of refugees was held this week in India’s Himanchal Pradesh.
Another meeting of refugees is being held in New York next week.
Thirty senior Tibetan religious leaders from Nepal are participating in this conference.
Tibetan Welfare Office in Kathmandu reported to the Himalchal Pradesh meeting.
It reported Chinese military has increased vigilance at Lomanthang pass in Nepal Tatopani customs point.
According to the report, an environment is favourable in some areas of Dolakha and Solokhumbu.
Additional budget was demanded for construction of monasteries in these areas.
The report says Chinese government through its embassy in Kathmandu is freely spending money to suppress the Free Tibet Movement in Nepal.
Khampas are being secretly mobilized to negate the activities.
A secret report was presented on the logistics, arms and ammunition at 25 Tibetan monasteries in Baudha.
The meeting amended the strategic role of refuge camps in Dahshinkali,Syambhu, Kapan, Kavre,Dolakha,Pokhara and gumbas in Tanahu and Jawalakhel.
Refugee camps in Tanahu and Sindhupalchowk are more active in the Free Tibet movement.
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President, prime minister condemn Mumbai attacks

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: President Dr Ram Baran Yadav and Prime Minister Prachanda, in separate messages to Indian leaders, have condemned the terrorist attacks on Mumbai killing more than 100 people.
More than 300 people were also injured.
“We strongly condemn this cowardly attack and the killings of innocent people. Dr Yadav said in a message to President Prativa Patil.
He extended condolences to families of those killed.
Prachanda, in a bland and routine message to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, said he was shocked at the ‘terrorist attack’ for which he expressed deep condolence.
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Prime minister, home minister attempt to defuse crisis

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Prime Minister Prachanda and Home Minister Bamdeb Gautam Friday morning met members of a civil struggle group protesting the murders of two teenagers whose bullet-riddled bodies were found near a jungle in Thankot.
Prachanda and Gautam asked the committee members to desist from protests for the second consecutive day assuring investigation and action.
Family members of the teenagers said they received no ransom demands after the boys went missing 12 days ago.
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Nine killed in crash

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Nine persons, including three members of a Rai family, were killed Thursday night in a minibus and truck crash at Lakchanopur, Jhapa.
Thirty passengers were also injured.
Four persons died on the spot while others died en route to hospital in Dharan and Silghudi, West Bengal, while undergoing treatment.
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Danish foreign minister arriving two days late

Kathmandu, 28 Nov: Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moller arrives Friday two days after his scheduled visit.
He was stranded at Bangkok airport after its takeover by protesters demanding the resignation of the prime minister.
Moller is being escorted from Thailand to Singapore by a special military plane to catch a Silk Air flight to Kathmandu Friday, The Rising Nepal said quoting Nepalese Ambassador to Denmak Vijayakanta Lal Karna.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

‘The new working policy slogan has addressed all four aspects of republic –people’s republic, federal republic, democratic republic and national republic.”

(Maoist Organization chief Mohan Baidya Kiran, The Kathmandu Post, 28 Nov.)

(CPN-Maoist will not shun competitive politics but won’t accept the parliamentary system. It believes that competition should take place among people.”

(Krishna Bahadur Mahara, The HimalayanTimes, 28 Nov.)

“He [Pranab Mukherjee] found out Nepal’s realities only after meeting Thapa [Surya Bahadur]. The second ranking man and foreign minister in government and senior leader of Congress (I) man holding in the meeting, accepted the policies and position adopted by New Delhi after an agreement between Maoists and seven parties were counterproductive for Nepal and India.”

(Nepalpatra, 28 Nov.)

British army chief visiting

By Bhola B Rana
Kaathmandu, 27 Nov: British army’s Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Richard Dannatt will visit Nepal from Friday 28 November to Monday 1 December, the British embassy said.
He will see British Gurkhas Nepal’s recruit selection process while being briefed on its supporting activities.
Gen Dannatt is visiting Nepal for the first time Nepal during his tenure.
He will be paying courtesy calls on the President, the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister and meet the Chief of Army Staff, Gen Rookmangud Katawal.
The visit indicates the full restoration of ties between Nepal and British armies snapped during the royal regime before April 2005.
Gen Dannatt comes at a time when United Kingdom has shown interest in reorganization of Nepal Army and its stalled integration with Maoist PLA.
London has submitted several proposals for Nepalese Army integration.
The British army chief is visiting Nepal soon after the visit of Minister of International Development Mike Foster who announced a hike in British development assistance while pledging to with the Maoist-led government.
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Nepali workers to Mumbai hotels safe


Kathmandu, 27 Nov; Three Nepali workers at Taj and Oberoi hotels in Mumbai where at least 101 persons were killed and more than 300 injured in terrorist attacks are safe, Kantipur FM reports.
Rescuers pulled out Purusottam Basshyal, a cook, from the rubble.
Two Nepalis employed at the Oberoi were not at the hotel which was also attacked.
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Angry protestors shut down New Road

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: New Road was closed in spontaneous protests Thursday after news of the murders of two teenagers from Tahachal spread like wildfire.
The protests engulfed other sections of the town as well.
Their bodies were found at a jungle near Thankot after they went missing 11 days ago.
Police reported the bodies had bullet wounds.
There were threats to continue protests Friday if culprits weren’t booked.
Home Ministry issued a statement asking people behind protests to desist from strikes and promised an immediate probe.
A demand has been made for talks with the home minister to discussed increased crimes in the capital and the latest murders.
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Nagarkot hotels reopen

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: More than 90 hotels and restaurants reopened Nagarkot Thursday afternoon.
Maoist workers suddenly called off a forced closure in the middle of negotiations with management.
Workers affiliated with a Maoist union forced the closure Wednesday demanding minimum Rs 4,600 monthly salary.
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Visiting British minister promises support for Maoist-led govt.

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Visiting British Minister for Internaional Development Mike Foster pledged support for the Maoist-led government during a meeting with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda Thursday.
Foster also held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Bamdeb gautam who heads a government committee for the integrationof the Maoist PLA and Nepal Army.
Great Britain has been pushing integration which is being challenged by main opposition Nepali Congress.
Foster said he discussed ‘challenges facing the new government’ while probing with the government how the international community can help it.
Foster announced an additional Rs 2.4 billion in assistance to Nepal.
He suggested Nepal should extend the tenure of the UNMIN which ends 23 January 2009.
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Students submit memorandum to prime minister

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Students affiliated with eight political parties, including Maoists, Thursday submitted a memorndum to Pruime Minister Prachanda demanding a what they call ’scientific’ vehicle fares ratio cards.
Thursday is the last of their three-day protest pushing their demands,
Prachanda said he will consider students demands with concerned ministers to implement them.
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Appointees of Girija government sacked

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: The Finance Ministry is reeling from the ruling Maoist’s intervention, The Himalayan Times reports.
Bowing to the Maoist’s pressure, Dr Chiranjivi Nepal, chairman of securities board and Devendra Pratap Shah. chairman, Insurance Board, put in their papers today [Wednesday].
Dr Nepal, an economist, and Shah, the former general manager of Agriculture Development Bank, Nepal, were appointed in August 2007 by the then Nepali Congress-led government.
Both were political appointees.
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Dr Tara Niraula elected NAC president

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Dr Tara Niraula has been elected unopposed president of Nepalese Americas Coucil (NAC) for two years 2009 to 2010, a NAC announcement said
Other office bearers were also elected.
Dr Niraula will also provide leadership to the NRN-North American Coordination Council from January 2009.
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Groups protest alleged murders of teenagers

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Groups angry with the alleged murders of two teenagers from Tahachal went around town Thursday forcing the closue of shops and disrupting movement of vehicles.
Bodies of the teenagers were found in jungle near Thankot after they went missing for13 days.
Relatives refused to take delivery of the bodies until culprits are booked.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“He [Dr Chiranjibi Nepal who resigned as chairman of security board] said Finance Minister Dr Baburam Bhattarai had called the share market a ‘gambling ground’ and this had also affected morale.”

(The Kathmandu Post, 27 Nov.)

Let multi-party system prevail in Nepal: Pranab Mukherjee

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee returned home Wednesday with clear messages the stalled peace process should be taken to its logical end through consensus between major political players.
“ …peace process which has been initiated by all political parties should be implemented through consensus, “ Mukherjee said before emplaning.
Mukherjee said unequivocally following the toppling of not only the royal government of King Gyanendra but also the 238-year-old monarchy, multi-party democracy should prevail.
India’s top diplomat and troubleshooter issued sermons on major issues even while saying the peace, integration and other issues were Nepal’s internal affairs.
He also said the a constitution should be drafted within the deadline of June 2010 amid fears in some quarters the schedule won’t be met.
Mukherjee’s or indeed Indian desires in Nepal were publicly aired at a time when Maoists were debating a republic they should adopt.
Main opposition Nepali Congress has launched a national public awareness against Maoists charging the CPN (Maoist) is laying the foundation
stone for an autocratic system of government.
The trusted hand of Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh flew in after threats to the peace process following a parting of ways between CPN (Maoist) and Nepali Congress.
Singh was the right man sent to Nepal by the Ganghi/Singh combine.
Mukherjee was the Indian government’s pointman in 2005 to implement New Delhi’s roadmap to topple monarchy, introduce a republic and reinforce it.
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Two teens probably murdered

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Bodies of two youth, probably murdered, were found at a forest near Thankot Wednesday.
The bodies of teenagers Ashish Manandhar and Ritesh Rauniyar from Tahachal had sharp head wounds.
Bodies were of the boys recovered 12 days after they went missing.
Deputy Prime Minister Bamdeb Gutam and his supporters in CPN_UML boast the home minister has curbed crime in the capital after assuming office more than three months ago.
Maoists abducted and killed capital’s trader Ram Kazi Shrestha.
Two youth from the capital were abducted and killed by Maoists in neighbouring Dhading.
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Water tariff hike proposed

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Lid (KUKL), a private company managing distribution of the capital’s drinking water supply, has proposed a 10 to 30 percent price in water tariff.
The hike was proposed following are a commendation of the Asian Development Bank, head of a consortium that is financing the Melamchi drinking water project to upgrade the capital’s water drinking water supply.
The proposal has been presented to the Water Tariff Fixation Commission for implementation.
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Old premises of US embassy for sale

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: The old US embassy complex at Maharajgunj is up for sale after moving to Ring Road.
A for sale notice, without mentioning price, has been put in a newspaper.
Bidders have been asked to submit letters of interest by 5 December 2008 which will be opened 24 December.
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German assistance

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Germany has provided a Rs 110 million assistance as food assistance and relief for the recent Kosi flood victims, its embassy said.
The food aid and social rehabilitation programme will be implemented by Deutsche Welthngerhilfe and NGO Rural Construction Nepal.
The assistance will benefit 20,000 families from 14 districts.
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Ruling MJF calls of Janakpur strike

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Life returned to normal Thursday morning in the holy town of Janakpur where ruling MJF enforced a strike protesting the arrest of the party’s lawmaker arrested for alleged abduction.
The lawmaker has been freed after party protests.
Local withdrew the charges and agreed to a judicial inquiry into alleged police excesses.
Three workers of the ferocious Jwala Singh group were arrested in Bardiya Wednesday with arms and ammunition.
Two extortionists of Terai Tigers were arrested with forcible donations collecte din Butwal Tuesday.
A house in Biratnagar overnight was bombed causing minor damage as violence continues unabated in the terai.
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HAN charge

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Even as Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) said it has asked members to implement a government recommendation of minimum wage and dearness allowance.
Workers affiliated with Maoists Wednesday indefinitely forcibly closed down hotels and restaurants in Nagarkot.
HAN claimed workers were paid more then the recommended wages and perks.
Workers demanded a flat Rs 1,300 pay increase.
The strike comes at the peak tourism season.
Workers Wednesday also shut down Gorkha Brewery, the manufacturers of the popular beer brand Tuborg.
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Deuba sings a different tune on integration

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Congress party President Girija Prasad Koirala are singing discordant notes on the important issue of Maoist PLA, Nepal Army integration.
Koirala’s officially undeclared successor in party said in clearly and loudly in the presence of party worker Wednesday he doesn’t oppose integration.
Koirala is vehemently against amalgamation and has made it a national issue in the form of a jihad against Maoists.
Deuba took the public stance on integration two days after visiting Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee held political discussions Tuesday.
Mukherjee met Deuba immediately after flying in from New Delhi and one day before hour-long discussions with Koirala.
The Deuba, Mukherjee meeting is also significant because New Delhi has anointed Deuba as the Crown Prince in
the Congress.
Sushsil Koirala and Ram Chandra Paudel are his rivals.
Mukherjee intervened and asked political parties to develop a common understanding on integration.
“Who says army integration can’t happen?. We’re not at all against integration.
“Without integration, the peace process won’t reach a logical conclusion.
“However, we are against wholesale integration of Maoist combatants which the Maoists have been talking about lately,” Deuba said.
Maoists will be happy with the Deuba statement which will certainly raise eyebrows in the main opposition party.
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Unlimited flights proposed between India, Nepal

Kathmandu, 27 Nov: Unlimited flights have been proposed from 18 airports in India and Nepal, Annapurna Post reports.
The proposal will be discussed at the civil aviation talks between the two countries in December 2008 during a review of the civil aviation accord.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“If New Delhi can now officially see China’s hand in the terrorism gripping its north-eastern states, it surely must comprehend the autonomy Beijing would expect to exercise in Nepal with or without Maoists in power,”

(Maila Baje, People’s Review, 27 Nov.)

“From top to bottom, UML activists are turning into opportunists, sycophants and megalomaniacs and tarnishing the party’s reputation.”

(Secretary General Jhalanath Khanal, The Kathanmdu Post, 27 Nov.)

‘But, just a week before the visit [to China] was
To take place, he[Home Minister Bamdeb Gautam] postponed the visit saying the visit was just a sightseeing trip….after knowing the agenda [Chinese support for modernization of police force] of Gautam, intentionally, the Indians had put pressure on the DPM to postpone or even cancel the visit.”

(People’s Review, 27 Nov.)

Maoists adopt new slogan

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: The sixth national workers’ meet of CPN (Maoist) concluded Wednesday by adopting a ‘new political slogan’ People’s Federal Loktanrik Rashtriya Republic’ after six days of discussions at the central committee and national meeting, Spokesman Krishna Bahadur Mahara said.
The new business policy was approved by the national meet and the central committee in an effort to maintain party unity.
The meeting approved a new policy will lead the country in the and determine the future of Nepal, Prime Minister and party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda said.
The meeting empowered Prachanda to draft a new common political document incorporating the highlights of a transitional republic and a people’s republic of Prachanda and Mohan Baidya Kiran respectively,
The document will be sent to the central committee for approval and mass circulation.
Unresolved differences will be taken up by the party general convention in 2009.
“The hopes of people who expected a split have been dashed,” after the common understanding in the CPN (Maoist), spokesman Mahara said.
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Mukherjee calls for consensus in Nepal
Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Nepal and India agreed Wednesday to build a mechanism for better border management.
Such a mechanism will be a common structure to control cross-border crime, Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee said before returning home at the end of a three-day visit,
Mukherjee said Nepal ‘s peace process and constitution drafting process should move ‘through political consensus’ and the vexed issue of integration of PLA with Nepal Army was Nepal’s internal matter.
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Arrival of Danish foreign minister delayed one day

Kathmandu, 21 Nov: Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Miller, will begin his scheduled Nepal visit that was to begin Wednesday only a day later Thursday.
His flight plan was disrupted with disturbance at Bangkok International Airport.
The Danish foreign minister was to catch a flight for Kathmandu from Bangkok.
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Officials demand security, close down Dhangadi

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Officials demanding security at work closed down offices in Dhangadi Wednesday.
Officials demanded action CPN-UML Youth Force activists who abused an official at work Tuesday.
The closure of more than 90 offices in Kailali district inconvenienced people.
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Chief of security board resigns

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Chief of Nepal Security Board Chranjibi Nepal resigned Wednesday charging the Maoist-led government neglected the stock market for three months.
Nepse index gained 29.70 points Wednesday after a steady fall in prices of stock over several weeks.
Nepal charged government for discouraging investors by introducing new taxes such as capital gains tax.
Nepal told reporters at his office government wasn’t serious in stabilizing stock prices even after heavy losses in the last three months since Maoists came to power.
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Six candidates file nominations

Kathmandu , 26 Nov: Six candidates filed nomination foe the vice-chairman of the constituent assembly (CA).
Election will be held Friday.
Nepal Congress and CPN-UML didn’t file nominations.
Maoists nominee is Purna Subedi and RPP fielded Prathiva Rana, mother-in-law of Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Nepal Sadbavhana Party, Nepal Majdoor Kishan Party and CPN (ML) also put up candidates.
Nilam KC is contesting on behalf of CPN( ML) .
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Gorakhkali temple open for first time to general public

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Gorakhkali temple in Gorkha has been opened to the public, Kantipur reports from Pokhara.
Only royal family members previously had access to the temple.
Fulpati offerings were banned for the general public at the temple; Gorakhkali is the ancestral God of the Shah kings.
Caretaker of Gorkha Durbar Damodar Sharma said the temple was opened through popular demand to offer worship at the temple.
The temple previously opened two days a month for sacrifices will now be opened for daily animal sacrifices.
The temple will be opened to the public from 7 December.
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Nominations for CA elections from 11 in the morning

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Candidates will file nominations for the vice-chairman of the constituent assembly Wednesday from 11 in the morning to four in the afternoon.
Election is being held Friday after parties failed to agree on a consensus candidate.
All major parties are expected to nominate women candidates.
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Nepal evasive; Mukjerjee calls for signing extradition treaty

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Nepal was hesitant when visiting Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday called for an early signing of an extradition treaty between India and Nepal.
According to Shyamnanda Suman, advisor of the foreign minister, Nepal said he was sill studying the treaty text and the time was too early for making a commitment.
The text was readied during the tenure of Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and then Home Minister Krishna Prasad Shitaula was about to fly to the Indian capital to sign the treaty.
A change in government that included Maoists came in between the formalization of the treaty.
Mukherjee will make an aerial inspection of the dmage caused by Kosi floods this monsoon while flying back to New Delhi Wednesday.
India will complete repairs before next monsoon, according to terms of an agreement and assurances.
Mukherjee will fly to Birgunj and inspect the consulate there; India is the only country permitted to maintain a consulate outside Kathmandu.
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Chinese foreign minister arrives 6 Dec.

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Qi arrives on a visit 6 December, Kantipur reports.
He will hold discussions with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Deputy Prime Minister Bamdeb Gautam, government officials and leaders of political parties.
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Girija predicts constitution won’t be drafted, armies won’t be integrated

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala who said he will help draft a constitution even from hell is predicting in internal family discussions held every Sunday the constitution won’t be drafted and armies won’t be integrated, Janaastha reports.
He said Prachanda is encountering difficulties and is being cornered.
After repeated talks with the prime minister, Koirala has concluded Prachanda is worried about politicking if PLA is integrated in the Nepal Army.
Koirala concludes Prachanda wants to crate a fighting force of armed Maoists to control politics.
Koirala told relatives Prachanda told him,” We won’t draft a constitution of your liking and you won’t permit a constitution of our liking.”
Koirala was smiling with glee when Prachanda complained of nepotism with him.
“You can’t trust others but the family,” Prachanda told Koirala reportedly. “I’ve been charged of nepotism.
But Koirala said,” Prachanda now says nobody but the family can be trusted.”
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“My friends previously called my a eunuch legislator. After becoming a minister, they now call me a eunuch minister. They say this because our party nominated many gays assembly members.”

(Science Minister Ganesh Shah, Annapurna Post, 26 Nov.)

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Rs 2 billion loss in commodity trading

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Nepali traders have lost nearly Rs 2 billion in losses after steep fall in prices of industrial raw materials in the international market, Kanipour reports.
The losses were suffered after prices of steel, palm oil, plastic granules, soya bean oil and vegetable ghee halved when the goods arrived at customs points after LCs were opened.
Prices of commodities in stores have also fallen sharply.
“In three months, losses accumulated to $10.75 million. LCs totaling $ 30.51 million were opened,” acting Nepal Rashtra Bank (NRB) Governor Krishna Bhadur Manandhar said.
According to NRB, altogether 102 LCs were opened.
“Commodity prices have halved after LCs were opened in October,“ Manandhar said.
The central bank has adopted a cooperative policy to help traders.
Repayment of loans have been eased through rescheduling payment from 90 to 180 days.
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Danish foreign minister arriving; other details

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Danish Foreign Minister Dr Per Stig Moller arrives Wednesday on a four-day visit as his Indian counterpart Pranab Mukherjee leaves after ending a the-day official visit Wednesday.
Moller will discuss the prevailing political situation, including the implementation of the peace process, the Danish embassy said.
It’s no coincidence that the three ministers from three foreign capitals are in town when Maoists are deeply divided as a hard-line group pushes the immediate imposition of a communist state through revolt.
The ministers were in town as Maoists were on a ‘great debate’ whether to immediately declare a republic opposed by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda who has been described as a ‘ renegade revisionist’.
Prachanda succeeded in delaying the debate until a party general convention in June 2009 to give continuity to the Maoist-led government while maintaining a fragile unity in the party.
India was concerned the peace process was tottering after main opposition Nepali Congress broke with Maoists and lunched a national awareness campaign threatening non-cooperation with the government ked by Prime Minister Prachanda.
India is concerned the 12-point New Delhi accord it pushed between Maoists and seven parliamentary parties in 2005 bringing Maoists into Nepali mainstream politics may lose its utility
Manmohan Singh government sent Mukherjee to patch up differenced between Congress president Girija Prasad Koirala and Premier Prachanda.
But Koirala was firm and adamant in his criticism of Maoists during his hour-long meeting with the India visitor.
Mukherjee returns hope with a message Koirala is adamant and will continue his non-cooperative with Maoists threatening the peace process and creating in certainty in Nepali politics.
Mukherjee cultivated Sher Bahadur Deuba one day before meeting Koirala in an effort to isolate the ageing octogenarian leader.
But Koirala isn’t ready to handover party leadership to Deuba or retire from active politics yet.
Koirala has become a thorn in India’s side as new Delhi pushes broader cooperative relations with major stakeholders to end the transition from monarchy to a republic.
That was the only purpose of Mukherjee’s visit to Nepal; bilateral issues had been discussed two times by Singh and Prachanda in New Delhi in three months.
Relations had been brought back on track but the Indian brokered peace agreement ran into foul weather.
Mukherjee returned home Wednesday without any agreement on the bilateral front because he hadn’t come to Nepal to resolve any major bilateral issues.
Denmark, has been playing a larger than life role in Nepal, with its deep influence among communists in the Himalayan state.
The small Scandinavian monarchical state run by a Left government is keen Maoists succeed in Nepal where the minister is coming with a mission to persuade the CPN (Maoist).
Great Britain, which claims to be Nepal’s largest development partner, too is concerned with the uncertainty in Nepal.
Visiting Minister International Development Mark Foster urged all sides to complete he peace process for sustainable development.
Chinese are not far behind.
Foreign minister of Nepal’s northern neighbour is arriving next month to pave the way for Prachanda’s expected official China visit.
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Congress says GP Koirala is leader of party’s parliamentary party

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Even without formal election, main opposition Nepali Congress has confirmed Girija Prasad Koirala it the leader of the party’s parliamentary party.
Sher Bahadur Deuba and Ram Chandra
Paudel were aspirants for the position.
Paudel, the party vice-president, kept sheepishly quiet when Koirala admonished him for declaring his candidacy for the post saying the declaration came too early.
The office of the Congress parliamentary party informed constitutional council secretariat Tuesday Koirala was the party’s leader in the constituent assembly which also acts as the legislature.
The council has asked the CA and the main opposition who was the leader after the council as obstructed.
The leader of the main opposition is an ex-officio member of the council headed by the prime minister.
It couldn’t make appointments to constitutional bodies with the vacancy.
All other parties in the CA had elected their leaders.
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Prachanda presents unity compromise proposal

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 26 Nov: Shelving an immediate decision on imposing a communist state through revolt, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda Wednesday presented an alternative proposal to 1,2000 national workers for adoption and endorsed by the central committee.
The central committee decided Tuesday night to shelve the debate temporarily until party general convention takes a decision on the ‘principle’ probably next June.
Amid fears of a split in the party that was catapulted to power three months ago following a 11-year people’s war and a movement against monarchy, the central committee said it took the decision for party ‘unity’.
‘The new proposal is Prachanda’s proposal,” one top leader said.
The fresh compromise party position amalgamates ‘positive points’ including Prachanda’s proposal for a transitional republic and organization Chief Mohan Baidya Kiran’s suggestion for a people’s republic though revolt.
The national meet, which began Friday, is expected to endorse the fresh compromise proposal of Prachanda.
The second meeting of the party central committee couldn’t agree on the republican form Tuesday even after an extended meeting.
It was assigned responsibility to prepare a common concept instead.
“We are now going to the people with a message of unity not division,” Maoist lawmaker Khim Lal Debkota said.
He explained Organization Chief Kiran’s thought saying ‘a people’s republic should not be a party strategy in which all communists believe in but a party business policy’.
Elucidating Kiran’s thimnking further, Deokota said ,” He [Kiran] thinks the movement has only toppled monarchy. The [CPN Maoist] don’t have a majority[in the CA] to implement its agenda.”
He quoted Kiran as saying “We have reached power but we still have an old culture.”
Earlier reports said Kiran warned Maoists in Nepal could meet the fate of communists overthrown in Indonesia and Chile.
The CPN (Maoist) is equally divide on a transitional republic and people’s republic at a time when the CA has to draft a constitution with the support of two-thirds majority in the 601-member assembly.
Main opposition Nepali Congress, the second largest party in the CA, said it will oppose tooth and nail attempts to impose a communist state in the strategic nation, sand-witched between Asian giants, India and China.
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Rs 650 million British assistance announced

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Visiting British Minister for International Development Mike Foster Tuesday announced a Rs 650 million British assistance for Kosi flood victims and bridge construction in Sankhuwasabha, an announcement said.
Foster said displaced needed urgent help after an inspection of flood devastated areas and British-run projects in the east..
The minister arrived Monday to pledge help for the peace process and continued aid.
Flood victims rejected a Rs 50,000 offer of conditional assistance help for each family if the 40,000 displaced families left temporary camps for their homes with the onset of winter.
Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee will inspect the flood damage before returning home Wednesday at the end of a three-day official visit.
India has offered assistance to repair the damage caused by the flood—the worst in recent memory.
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Without consensus, CA vice-chairman election on Friday

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Party candidates will file nominations Wednesday for election of vice-chairman of constituent assembly (CA)
Nobody file nominations for a consensus candidate Tuesday.
Election will be held Friday.
Aspirant parties rejected Terai Madesh Loktantrik Party (TMLP), the fifth largest party in the CA, rejected a claim for the vice-chairmanship of the assembly that also acts as parliament.
TMLP said it was entitled to the position because Nepali Congress, MJF, CPN (Maoist) and CPN-UML candidates had been respectively elected president, vice-president, prime minister and CA chairman.
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President Yadav receives Indian invite

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Nepal’s first president Dr Ram Baran Yadav Tuesday received an official invitation to pay an official India visit, the president’s office said.
The invitation from the Indian president was delivered to the president by visiting Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee.
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Officials demand action against Youth Force

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Officials threatened to close office in Dhangadi Wednesday and demanded action against CPN-UML Youth Force activists who mistreated and abused a DFO in the far west town Tuesday.
Youth Force activists, including local leader Ganga Hamal, overpowered DFO Mohan Bahadur Khadka and abused him in office.
Officials stopped work immediately demanding security and have threatened to go abstain from work Wednesday.
Maoist YCL and Youth Force have been taking law into their own hands—the work of police and administration- to enforce what they thins and believe is acceptable behaviour.
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Bhutanese protest

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: During the Nepal visit of Indian foreign minister, Bhutanese refugees Tuesday staged a symbolic sit-in at Mechi bridge on the Jhapa-West Bengal border and refugee camps in Jhapa demanding creation of an environment to return home.
Nearly 108,000 refugees were forcibly uprooted and expelled from their homes mainly in southern Bhutan by former King Jigme Singhe Wangchuk with Indian unconcern.
The Bhutanese refugees were transported to east Nepal through West Bengal.
Five hundred refugees faxed a message with their signatures to Mukherjee at the Indian embassy demanding they be allowed to return home.
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Girija complains against Maoists with Pranab Mukherjee

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala told visiting Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday Maoists were endangering democracy during a hour-long meeting.
Mukherjee met Koirala at his residence following a 30-minute sweeping discussion on national issues, including the tottering peace process, with Prime Minister Prachanda.
Dr Baburam Bhattarai assisted Prachanda; Foreign Minister Upendra Yadhav wasn’t present at the meeting.
Daughter Sujata briefed reporters on the details of her father’s discussions with Mukherjee.
Koirala told Mukherjee Maoists had broken consensus politics endangering the peace process.
He complained Maoists had broken a consensus between seven political parties repeating a theme adopted during a national awareness campaign.
India and Girija engineered the Maoist entry into the political mainstream in April 2005 by bringing the rebels out of the jungle and safe havens in India where the communists spent 11 years launching a people’s war.
But Girija assured the visitor Nepali Congress will cooperate to complete dranting a constitution within the remaining 18-month deadline.
Mukherjee told Koirala Indian was ready to help in the implementing the peace process.
Mukherjee told Prachanda parties, including Maoists and Nepali Congress should take the peace process to the logical conclusion by implementing a 12-point Delhi accord signed by Maoists and seven parliamentary parties.
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Maoists refer republic issue to general convention

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: CPN (Maoist) central committee Tuesday decided to ‘continue the principled discussion’ on a type of republic to be adopted at a meeting of the party general convention to be held sometime in June 2009.
For the second time the central committee Tuesday couldn’t decide whether to adopt Prime Minister Prachanda’s proposal for a transitional republic or Mohan Baidya Kiran’s hard-line demand for an immediate people’s republic through revolt.
Prachanda will present to the national meet Wednesday an amalgamated common proposal taking ‘good points’ of four suggestions for adoption for unity.
The options were discussed in group meetings and the opening session of the national meet that began Friday.
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Students disrupt vehicular traffic

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Students affiliated with eight unions Tuesday morning disrupted vehicular traffic in the capital demanding immediate ‘scientific’ vehicular fares and ration cards.
They rejected a six to seven percent cut in fares calling it inadequate.
Students affiliated with ruling parties called a three-day protest that will culminate Thursday with a sit-in in front of the prime minister’s residence.
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PM Prachanda, Pranab Mukherjee hold discussions

Kathmandu, 25Nov: Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday morning discussed the stalled peace process and other issues in a 30-minute meeting with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.
They continued discussions held in New Delhi during the premier’s second India visit this month to attend the second BIMSTEC summit in the Indian capital.
“Talks were positive,” Mukherjee said after his third meeting with the prime minister in three months in New Delhi and Kathmandu.
In the bilateral review, Prachanda and Mukherjee also discussed Kosi floods, economic assistance, constitution drafting and stalled army integration.
Mukherjee also held discussions will Foreign Minister Upendra and main opposition leader Girija Prasad Koirala onhe second day of his three-day official Nepal visit.
Mukherjee, accompanied by an 11-member delegation, and Yadav, participated in delegation-level talks.
Mukherjee launched consultations Monday with Nepali leaders on bilateral issues on common interest immediately on arrival Monday in consultations with CPN-UML General Secretary Jhalanath Khanal and Sher Bahadur Deuba, the likely successor of ailing Koirala in Nepalu Congress.
Mukherjee will call on President Dr Ram Baran Yadav and Vice-president Parmananda Jha; later in the afternoon.
The visitor interact with some members of the CA thatis meeting Tuesday immediately after discussions with Chairman Subash Nemwang.
Khanal told reporters after meting Mukherjee Monday discussions centered on constitution drafting, peace process and integration of PLA an Nepal Army.
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Maoists to adopt common approach

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Maoist central committee began discussing Tuesday to incorporate differing suggestions of 21 groups on a transitional republic and people’s republic in a common document to be presented at a proposed meeting of the party general convention in June 2009.
The central committee met Tuesday after group discussions ended Monday with their suggestions.
Prime Minister Prachanda penned the concept of a transitional republic while Organization Chief Mohan Baidya Kiran proposed an immediate communist people’s republic through revolt.
Main opposition Nepali Congress has launched a jihad.
against the Maoist plan.
A Maoist national meet of 1,200 delegates will give approval to the suggestions of the central committee; workers are assembling later Tuesday.
Thirteen out of 21 groups supported Prachanda, six lent support to Kiran and two groups took a neutral line recommending amalgamation of good points in both proposals.
Maoists began what they called a ‘great debate’ as the constitution drafting process has begun.
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Maoist combatants in UN camps still carry bombs

Kathnmandu, 25 Nov: A bomb carried by a Maoist combatant exploded at Khorgaon in Dailekh Sunday according to locals, Annapurna Post reports from Dailekh.
A child was injured in the blast.
Locals said a Maoist combatant Udit Singh Shahi returned on home leave from Shaktikhor camp in Chitwan with the bomb.
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MJF calls indefinite strike in Janakpur

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Ruling MJF of Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav Tuesday called an indefinite strike in Janakpur protesting what it alleged was the arrest of its lawmaker.
The strike paralyzed life in the town famous for the Janaki Mandir.
But police said the lawmaker attempted to kidnap two policemen leading to his arrest.
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Prolonged Colgate Palmolive row enters 5th day

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: As thel abour dispute that stopped operations at Colgate Palmolive entered its fifth day Monday, labourers of companies that supply cartons and and tubes have joined the agitation, The Kathmandu Post reports from Hetauda.
Talks between agitating labourers and management at the labour office here ended late Sunday night without an agreement.
The dispute started after employees at the factory in Hetauda Industrial Area started agitation demanding security and incentives from the previous management after multinational Colgate-Palmolive (India) transferred ownership of its Nepal subsidiary to Nepali entrepreneurs.
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Power cut loss Rs 59b

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Entrepreneurs Monday said they expected load shedding to cause productivity loss to reach Rs 59 billion in 2008, The Kathmandu Post reports.
Hydropower expert and entrepreneur Gyanendra Lal Pradhan said losses could reach Rs 71.2 billion by2010 if the situation didn’t change.
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MEDIA GOOGLE



“… NC President Girija Prasad Koirala is after the Maoists for not letting him become the first president of the nation. The NC needs to get rid of this sheer negativism.”

(CPN-UML leader Bharat Mohan Adhikari, The Himalayan Times, 25 Nov.)


“The UN agency will have a lot of explaining to do as the rice provided by the WFP allegedly [to Kosi flood victims in camps] was littered with pebbles. ‘It was extremely difficult to cook the rice. It has raised health hazards, for the victims.”

(The Himalayan Times, 25 Nov.)

“One such product is Supanet Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs). There are only handful of INT’s approved by WHO and Supanet is not one of them. If Nepal is its tender only allows WHO approved ITNs, why is it allowing INGO to import substandard nets? INGOs are trying to push their own brand of product with donor money. Donor money is for Nepal and no for INGOs to push their product and brand.”

“Letter in The Kathmandu Post, 25 Nov.)

Prachanda govt completes 100 days

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: A Maoist government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda completed 100 days Tuesday amid mixed reaction.
Nepali Congress President and Prachanda’s predecessor Girija Prasad Koirala was reluctant to handover power to CPN (Maoist) that emerged as the largest political party following the 10 April assembly poll .
“King Gyanendra left Narayanhiti willingly; but Koirala was reticent,” observed CPN-UML leader Hiranya lal Shrestha.
Koirala, installed to power in April 2004 through street protests and international conspiracy.
With his lust for power, Koirala wasn’t willing to handover power to communists fearing Maoists will gain a permanent foothold on Singha Durbar.
Koirala handed over power to an elected government led by Maoists only after amending the interim constitution incorporating a provision to topple a government a government with a simple majority vote in the CA.
With the installation of Prachanda, Nepal had an elected government in nearly seven years.
Sher Bahadur Deuba couldn’t hold stipulated parliamentary elections six months after dissolving parliament throwing the county into deep political crisis ultimately leading to direct rule imposed by King Gyanendra in February 2004.
“People feel the government is working for the people’s interest zero tolerance to violence,” Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Bamdeb Bautam told Annapurna Post blowing his own trumpet.

But the claim, critics say, is superficial, as the law and order situation in the terai deteriorates; Maoists have been charged for three abductions and murders from the capital itself.
Gautam hasn’t booked he culprits as yet as opposition has charged government for protecting suspects on the murders.
On the economic front, inflation has spiraled to 14 percent even with promises of good governance and effort to contain price rise to single digit growth.
Work on drafting a constitution to be completed in the next 18 month has just begun amid doubts are being expressed whether it will be completed within the remiaremaining 18-month deadline.
‘Govenremnt has attempted to do something,because of hundreds of bad deeds, anything positive ios negligible,” Congress spokesman Arjun Narsingh said.
Uncertain prevails over the future of democracy with two
factions in Maoists saying their ultimate objective is to take Nepaltowards a people’s republic.
Main opposition nepali Congress has already started a jihad to stop Maoiosts from achieving thatobjective.
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Election for CA vice-chairman Friday

Kathmandu, 25 Nov: Main Opposition Nepali Congress and RTerai Madesh Loktanric Partyb (TMLP) said they will contest elections for the vice-chairman of constituent assembly (CA0 scheduled for Friday.
CA set 11 to 4 as time to come up with a consensus candidate after the constitututionencouraged consensus politics in running the administration.
But with differences surfacing after the 10 Apil elections consensus politics oesn’t exist.
Congress central leader Laxman Ghimere said his party willcontest the seat.
TMLP has formed a five-member committee jheaded by Hridesh tripahi to garner support for its candidate yet to be announced, like the Nepaliu Congress.
TMLP claimed the positiono arguing the posts of president, vice-president,prime minister and CA chairman have been shared by nepaliCongresss, MJF, CPN (Maoist) and CPN-UML respectively.
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Moist group meeting concludes

Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Twenty-one groups in the CPN (Maoist) completed Monday discussions on differing proposal of Prime Minister Prachanda for a transitional republic and a rival suggestion of Mohan Baidya Kiran for an immediate people’s republic through a revolt.
The committees are equally divided on the proposals the party should adopt as its future strategy.
Main opposition Nepali Congress charges CPN (Maoist) for taking the country towards totalitarian rule as the CA began work on drafting a new constitution.
Nearly 1,100 national workers’ will reconvene Tuesday to hear the conclusions of the groups, including one group that discussed integration of PLA with Nepal Army.
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Pranab Mukherjee arrives


Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee arrived Monday on a three-dayofficial visit and declared New Delhi will ‘ continue to stand by the people of Nepal and extend support’.
Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav received Mukherjee at the airport.
Immediately after arrival, Mukherjee started political discussions with Nepali leaders; significantly, he first held 30-monute discussion with CPN-UML General Secretary Jhalanath Khanal who called on the visiting foreign minister at his hotel.
CPN-UML is the second party is the Maoist-led coalition government.
Mukherjee continues political discussions Tuesday with Prime Mnister Puushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and main opposition party leader Girija Prasad Koirala.
Mukherjee will also call on President Ram Baran Yadav and Vice-President Parnamanda Jha Tuesday.
Mukherjee will discuss the tottering peace process, constitution drafting, bilateral aid, river projects--including the Kosi that left a trail of death and destruction in the east during the monsoon.
He will visit Birgunj and inspect the Indian consulate; India is the only country to have a consulate outside Kathmandu giving New Delhi a foothold in the terai where a rebellion and secessionist movement are brewing as the region bordering India.
Rebels bases across theborder are conducting a regional campaign with some groups pushing for independence.
Britain’s Minister for International Development Mike Foster also arrived on a four-day visit Monday.
Britain will lend support for the peace process and, drafting the constitution.
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Kidnappers presented

Kathmandu, 24 Ov: Police Monday presented two alleged abductors of Mehgha, the daughter of Dr Upendra Debkota from the Bnsbari three months.
The noted neurosurgeon paid a Rs 13 million for the freedom of his daughter..
Police presented chief suspect Siddhartha Lama and an accomplice Raju Lama before media representatives after they were arrested in neigbouring Darjeeling.

NEA cuts power supply to govt. offices in Parsa

Kathmandu, 24 Nov; Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) cut off power supply to all government offices in Parsa Sunday for failure to clear dues even after repeated reminders to clear dues.
Nepal Telecom Sunday restored four telephone lines at Nepali Congress head office after it settled monthly dues.
Telephone connections were snapped.
Electricity and water supplies to the ashram occupied by former Prime Minister Krishna Prasad Bhattarai have also been disconnected.
The facility was donated to Bhattarai by government.
NEA has also asked several members of the former royal family to clear their electricity bills.
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Prachanda faces two-pronged attack

By Bhola B Rana


Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Barely three months after assuming office, CPN (Maoist) and the government led by its Chairman Prachanda is facing a strong two-pronged frontal attack from within the party and the other national parties, including coalition partners.
The Dahal government has been charged for ‘revisionism’ to preserve the status quo after declaring a federal democratic republic.
Party organization chief Mohan Baidya Kiran is leading a stiff call supported by nearly half the 1,000 delegates to declare an immediate Stalinist hard-line people’s republic to prevent a repetition of the downfall of communists like in Chile or Indonesia.
The party is continuing the debate in neighbouring Bhaktapur Monday.
Prachanda is trying to buy time by attempting to refer the debate between his transitional republic and people’s republic to a general convention in June 2009.
Meanwhile, main opposition Nepali Congress has hyped criticism charging the CPN (Maoist) is an anti-democratic party which can’t be trusted or supported.
The opposition threat of non-cooperation with government has created uncertainty propelling fears a constitution may not be drafted by the June 2009 deadline to end the current transitional phase from monarchy to a republic.
The country is governed by what is called an interim constitution imposed by unelected members of parliament and amended at will to suit immediate party interests.
As Koirala launched a jihad against Maoists, the Nepali Congress has come out publicly in support of the Nepal Army against which a hate campaign was launched during the royal regime before April 2005 to defame a state army that founded modern Nepal with King Prithvi Narayan Shah the Great 238 years ago.
“Maoists have no right even to talk of army integration now as they are responsible for violating the agreements while breaching understanding on political consensus,” Koirala charged in Nepalgunj Sunday.
The party has launched what it calls a national awareness campaign-- in effect a jihad against Maoists—for anti-democratic and authoritarian tendencies.
Democracy is under threat with government under Maoists, Koirala charged.
But Koirala built an alliance with exiled Maoists in India to put democracy on firm roots after a royal takeover before 2005 amid protests from a sizeable section of the party that opposed a working arrangement with extreme communist Maoists.
Koirala ignored the warnings from within the partybof aligning with Maoists to topple monarchy to protect and promote democracy.
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Global recession won’t impact Nepal

Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Global recession won’t immediately impact Nepal which isn’t linked to the world economy..
But it could reverse flow of remittances home by workers.
These are the findings of a IMF study team made public Sunday
An IMF study team headed by Brian J. Aitken said the annual 2008/09 budget announced by Finance Minister Dr Baburam Bhattarai was ambitious while appreciating ‘impressive steps’ to meet revenue collection targets.
“But there is still risk that if planned revenue fails to materialize the sustainability of the budget could be threatened,” the team said.
IMF assessment team asked Nepal Rashtra Bank to tighten monetary policy to prevent risks pose by lending tfor rel estate development.
A collapse of real estate prices will negatively impact banks.
“The biggest shot-run concern is rapidly growing real estate price. Given the large exposure of the financial sector to real estate, a decline in real estate prices would have negative effects on banks and ultimately on output growth,” the team said.
The group estimated as many as 160 financial institutions investing in real estate.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“I’ll fulfill my commitment [to draft a constitution] even from hell.”

(GP Koirala pledging to complete writing the constitution by June 2009, Nepal Samacharpatra, 24 Nov.)

“I have never criticized the UNMIN. I only objected to the studied silence of the UNMIN when the Maoist leaders entered parliament with UN tagged weapons.”

(GP Koirala, The Himalayan Times, 24 Nov.)

Alcohol banned at government receptions for foreigners

Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Alcohol has been banned at receptions for foreigners organized by the foreign ministry as an austerity measure, Annapurna Post reports.
But liquor will be served during receptions on state visits.
No liquor was served at a dinner hosted by Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav for visiting former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Kamal.
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Indian minister to bring warring parties closer

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Indian Foreign Minister
Praanab Mukherjee arrives for a three-day official visit for crucial discussions with Nepali top leaders at a time when the political crisis in brewing.
Mukherjee, deeply involved in the planning and nurturing of a republic since late 2004/005, is expected to help narrow the differences between Nepal’s major political players to ensure stability and reinforcement of a republican political structure.
The visiting minister will review the 22-point agreement signed by Prime Minister Prachanda and his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh in New Delhi in September.
He will hold discussions with leaders of major political parties, including main opposition leader Girija Prasad Koirala and CPN-UML General Secretary Jhalanaath Khanal and terai based parties.
Coalition partners of Maoists have threatened to opt out of government if CPN (Maoist) doesn’t mend is ways and Nepali Congress had withheld cooperation putting the Prachanda government in crisis.
The deadline to draft a constitution in another 18 months may not with differences widening between Maoists and Nepali Congress which said it will prevent integration of PLA with Nepal Army jeopardizing the completion of the peace process.
Nepal will not raise the tricky issue of review of the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship even as New Delhi says it’s ready to reconsider it, Annapurna Post, a newspaper close to the Indian embassy reports .
The Treaty gives Indian ‘special’ rights in Nepal.
Nepal will propose local and central control mechanism for the resolution of border issues while raising the Indian encroachment in Kalapani and Susta, Padumna Bikram Shah, joint secretary a the foreign ministry said.
British Minister for International Development Mike Foster is also arriving Monday on a four-day visit—his first foreign trip after assuming office.
He will lend support to the tottering peace process and probably pledge additional development assistance to the Maoist-led government at a time when the government has sought additional foreign aid to invest in ambitious projects.
Danish foreign minister arrives the day Mukherjee leaves.
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Prachanda identified Congress as enemy
Kahmandu, 24 Nov: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has called Nepal Congress an enemy of the revolution, CPN-UML a very opportunistic party and terai parties reactionary agents, Naya Patrika reports.
He presented the assessment to the on-going party national meet in Bhaktapur.
Nepali Congress is the main force which represents feudals and has the blessings of imperialists and expansionists.
Without defeating Nepali Congress people’s revolution cannot be completed, Prachanda said.
Prachanda says CPN-UML favours parliamentary status quo against revolutionary Marxism and revolutionary movement polarizing thousands of revolutionaries making the party unpopular as demonstrated in recent assembly elections.
Yet Prachanda urged cooperation, working unity and joint front with the CPN-UMl..
Dahal charged Mohan Baidya Kiran’s proposal for a people’s republic ‘ is really an attempt to kill real revolution’.
Prachanda has admitted in the secret document circulated in the party the murder of trader Ram Hari Shrestha has dealt a severe blow to the party.
“Madesh is in a critical situation. Madesh Janaadhikar Forum, Terai Madessh Loktantrik Party (TMLP) and Sadbhavan are the main regional forces. These parties are formed on ethnic and emotional lines and are feudal and represent in the final analysis capitalist agents.
He added,” These parties are close to foreign reactionary political groups.”
Prachanda proposed the dissolution of the three regional bodies headed by Ram Bahadur Thapa Badal, Dr Baburam Bhattarai and Post Bahadur Bogati and its replacement by a central organization bureau to run daily party affairs.
Prachanda has also proposed a central level army integration consultation committee for unification of two opposing armies.
The chairman proposed each division of PLA should implement one development programme and combatants should undergo military training and run labour camps.
YCL should be deployed and reinforced by March /April 2009 and every unit should run one production unit.
This suggestion comes amid demands by Nepali Congress for its dissolution s a precondition for future cooperation.
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One abductor of Dr Upendra Debkota’s daughter arrested

Kathmandu, 24 Nov: Siddhartha Lama, chief abductor of neurologist Dr Upendra Debkota’s daughter Megha has been arrested by Nepal Police, Naya Parika reports.
He is being held at No. 2 Battalion.
Police followed him up to Darjeeling.
Four other suspects in he case are sill absconding.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Now it’s not enough for Nepali Congress to be in the opposition and struggle; it should also be active for such a struggle with dialogue and cooperation.”

(Congress youth leader Gagan Thapa, Naya Patrika, 24 Nov.)

“And despite commitments to establishing a transitional justice mechanisms and to enforce the rule of law, a climate of impunity continues to be pervasive.”

(OHCHR-Nepal representative Richard Bennett)

‘Now due to the fact that the Maoists are in power, the trial attorneys are much more reluctant to let the regular attorneys argue the case because Maoists aren’t killing people anymore. The immigrant judge also had a soft corner for asylum seekers at the time because there was a State Department country report which described Nepal as being in upheaval.”

(New York-based immigrant attorney Keshab Raj Seadie revealing many Nepalis sought asylum in USA during Maoist people’s war, The Kathmandu Post, 23 Nov.)

‘The PM [Prachanda] faced a lot of hostilities [at the ongoing national meet] as he was nor only booed and jeered by some of the angry workers and leaders, but was presented as a ‘revisionist’ corrupt and a nepotistic leader.”

[newsfront report , 24 Nov.)

Maoist division to be taken to general convention

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 23 Nov: Should Maoists opt for a transitional republic pushed by Prime Minister Prachanda or go immediately for a people’s republic advocate by Organization Chief Mohan Baidya Kiran?
The debate may be referred to a general convention proposed by Prachanda to be held sometime in June 2009; the convention will be meeting for the first time in 13 years if it’s convened.
Prachanda, who is also chairman of the CPN (Maoist), catapulted to power through the 10 April CA election, proposed such a meeting at a meeting of the sixth national workers’ party meet in the capital Saturday.
Central committee member CP Gajurel told BBC Nepali Service Sunday the ‘great debate’ may be referred to the convention as well while saying that the party was equally divided on the two proposals.
Twenty-three Maoist groups Sunday concluded discussions.
Coordinators will present the result of the discussions to the full session of the national meet Monday morning for adoption.
The debate of the form of a republic was inconclusive at the central committee which referred the issue to the national meet which will most likely refer the discussion to the general convention.
Immediately, Prime Minister Prachanda has bought time by postponing a decision on the debate.
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Indian foreign minister Pranab Mukherjee arrives Monday

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 23 Nov: Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee arrives Monday on a three-day official visit just at a time when the political crisis has heightened in the country with the Maoist-led government and the main opposition Nepali Congress heading for a showdown.
Mukherjee is officially the guest of Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav.
The Indian foreign minister will hold discussions with Premier
Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and party leaders.
Mukherjee, is who is well-versed in Nepali affairs, will push a reconciliation between Congress and the government to push the completion of the peace process; reconciliation and a working relationship with the government and the main opposition is essential if a constitution is to be drafted in the next 18 months.
Without reconciliation, the constitution can’t be drafted within the deadline. Mukherjee was the pointman of the Manmohan Singh government which galvanized world capitals to topple King Gyanendra and his direct rule.
Singh oversaw the formation of a coalition seven-party government which held elections culminating in the declaration of a republic.
The Indian foreign minister is arriving to bring two political rivals- previous coalition partners—together.
Mukherjee will inspect the damage caused by the flooded Kosi this monsoon before returning home Wednesday.
A British minister for development assistance will arrive the same day Mukherje flies in from New Delhi while Denmark’s foreign minister will also come calling this week.
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North Korean deputy foreign minister leaves

Kathmandu, 23 Nov: North Korean Deputy Foreign Minister Kim Yong Il left Sunday for home after a four-day visit.
Before leaving, he held discussions with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda; he also held discussions with Foreign Minister Upendra Yadav.
His arrival four days ago was not reported either in the official or private media.
Kim is the first communist leader to visit Nepal after the installation of a Maoist-led government in Nepal.
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Maoist victims at NHRC

Kathmandu, 23 Nov: Maoist victims presented a memorandum to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Sunday highlighting their plight and demanding the return of assets seized by Maoists.
They demanded punishment of people involved for excesses during the people’s war.
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Students on anti-government protests

Kathmandu 23 Nov: Six student unions Sunday rejected Saturday’s slash in taxi fares and announced an extended three-day protest programme calling for a ‘scientific’ fares and facilities.
Students said they will launch a three-day stir beginning Tuesday with protests in front of campuses; the protests will end Thursday with a sit-in before the prime minister’s residence.
Maoist students won’t join the protests against their government.
To placate students, government Saturday announced seven percent slash in taxi fares and six percent reduction in diesel-operated vehicles.
The government attempt didn’t bear favourable results.
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