Kalpit Parajuli

Yadav Poudel was based in Jhapa District (Eastern Region). The motive for his murder remains unknown. A Communist group places seven bombs in the capital, which police found and defused.

In an interview with AsiaNews, Gyanendra Shah talks about his campaign to restore the Hindu monarchy. He acknowledges the great contribution minorities have made to the country. He also condemns terrorist attacks in the name of religion.

The government adopts important security measures to protect churches and places of worship. Holy Week preparations are underway in the capital's Assumption Cathedral. The diocese organises an exhibit of sacred objects to help the poor and family stricken by the economic crisis.

Tired of the political chaos, the poor call for a return of the Hindu monarchy. King Gyanendra will visit the poorest districts in the far west of Nepal during the Easter period to foment religious sectarianism. During Holy Week Christians are calling for respect for religious freedom in the new constitution.

The cases have increased by 31% since 2010. The average is 4 thousand suicides a year. In Bara, an unemployed mother with severe economic difficulties kills herself and her children.

Because of poverty, some 80 children are living with their jailed mothers in Nepali prisons. Founded in 2005, Buttefly Home offers children of incarcerated women food, education and health care.

The refugees of Tibet denounce constant checks by the police. On March 10, 22 were arrested during a demonstration. For activists refugee camps have become prisons.

At the center of the controversy the president Prachanda and senior party officials, who recently ordered the eviction of squatters from 15 thousand huts along the rivers, for "environmental" reasons. Maoist leaders charge: "we were cheated." Criticism even from the communist youth movement.

For the authorities, this is the worst attack since 2009. The bomb explodes near the Nepali Oil Corporation headquarters. A small terrorist group fighting for the rights of indigenous minorities claims responsibility.

Because of cutbacks, temple authorities at Pashupatinath (Kathmandu) filled ablution fountains with sewer water. For the first time in centuries, Indian gurus deserted Mahashivaratri.

Thegani Devi Yadav, 40, supported two children and in-laws with her work. The government provides compensation and punishes the culprits. A famous healer and magician, tied her and set her on fire with the help of some villagers. Human rights activists explain that "it is a very common practice" and the legacy of a society "dominated by Hinduism."

The ruling party blocks proposed rules on money-laundering and terrorism that are binding on UN member states in order to prevent Maoist leaders from going on trial. The country could be blacklisted, unable to sell government bonds or attract foreign investment.