The Nepali government acknowledges the involvement of some police officers in the murder of Jamin Shah, killed on 7 February, and Arun Singhaniaya, gunned down on 1 March. Both were important figures in Nepal’s media world. In protest, journalists send the prime minister the gift of a pen and a gun to symbolise the violence they have to endure.
The Informal Sector Service Centre accuses the government of not punishing offenders and political parties of protecting criminals. In its 2010 Human Rights Yearbook report, the human rights watchdog documents 2,946 cases of human rights violations. Nepali PM dismisses the accusations, saying group failed to take into consideration the government’s actions.
Rapid unplanned urbanisation has led the government to give Hindus land earmarked for Christian, Muslim and Baha’i minorities, groups that do not cremate their dead. This is causing tensions between Hindus and other religious groups.
In Delhi, President Ram Baran Yadav meets the Indian prime minister, gets a US$ 250 million line of credit, food aid and new links transportation links between the two countries. It is the first visit by a Nepali head of state since the fall of the monarchy in 2008. It is set to end on Saturday.
More than 50,000 Hindus from Nepal and India celebrate Mahashivaratri, the ‘Great Night of Shiva’. Among the offerings are mind-altering drugs sold outside the main temple to adults and minors alike as the authorities stand indifferently by.
Maoist militants are unable to go back to civilian life without active political involvement. They accuse the United Nations of bungling the reintegration process. Meanwhile, Kathmandu has decided to align itself with Beijing and is set to expel ten Tibetans.
From Nakkhu prison (Kathmandu), Ram Prasad Mainalo former leader of the Nepal Army Defence says he's changed thanks to reading the Bible. Along with all his group was responsible for the attacks at the cathedral in Kathmandu on 23 May and the Mosque Birantnagar on 26 April. Pastor of the Cathedral: "We need to understand if his is a real change."
Protests are launched today in the capital and seven other cities. Maoist leader and former Prime Minister Prachanda accuses India of "guiding" Nepal's current government, urges Nepalis to fight for the nation's independence and sovereignty.
The new prime minister arrives in Beijing and Kathmandu guarantees Chinese President Hu Jintao secessionist activities in the territory of Nepal will not be permitted. In exchange, trade and development.
Landless and Maoists protest the eviction of illegal homes from Dudhejhadi forest engage in gun battles with police. The dead include two policemen. To seek justice Maoists block the entire country.
Cabinet expresses concern over climate change impact on Himalayas. The country’s protected areas are extended by 25 per cent. Funds are allocated to help people living at the foot of the mountain range and for greater protection of Nepal’s natural heritage.
The Nepali government will hold a special session of the cabinet next Friday at 5,614 metres of altitude. Its agenda will include a resolution to present to UN Copenhagen conference, support for ‘Save the Himalayas’ campaign and the creation of a new conservation area at the foot of the ‘Roof of the World’.
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