Maoists caught in a fix

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 22 April: Maoists have been isolated in their high profile attempt to sack Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katwal for allegedly challenging the civilian authority over the state army—a charge rejected by Gen Katawal.
Instead of sacking the chief, a cabinet meeting first distributed copies of a reply of the general defending himself for ‘study’ members of the council of ministers for final decision.
Prime Minister Prachanda then called a meeting of all parties in parliament that rejected the government’s call for support to sack the top army general
CPN-UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal cut short his 10-day China visit and is scheduled to return home Thursday.
Before the meeting convened by Maoists, a meeting of 17 parties convened by main opposition Nepali Congress backed the army having serious implications of national politics.
Khanal was scheduled to return home only Sunday.
The coalition partner of Maoists is split vertically with Madhav Kumar Nepal and KP Sharma Oli faction coming openly coming out against Maoist behaviour.
Khanal and deputy Prime Minister Bamdeb Gautam have adopted a soft stance in favour Maoists.
Maoists and Nepali Congress organized demonstrations against and in favour of the general.
Maoist foreign expert CP Gajurel said India, USA pressurized government in favour of Gen Katawal.
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Nepal defeats Saudi Arabia in Acc U-19 cricket tournament

Kathmandu, 22 April: Nepal defeated Saudi Arabia Wednesday by 137 runs in a ACC U-19 Elite Cup cricket tournament in Kuwait.
The match was Nepal’s first outing in the tournament.
Nepal has lifted the championship trophy four consecutive times.
Nepal plays Hong Kong Friday.
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Tharus smash UN vehicles

Kathmandu, 22 April: Tharus in renewed protests also smashed UN vehicles during a renewed strike in the terai Wednesday.
The community renewed protests after one month pressing six demands, including de-linking from the Madeshi group.
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