Kalpit Parajuli

Despite the delicate domestic political situation, Prime Minister Dahal leaves Kathmandu in the hope of signing agreements for the development of the country's hydroelectric resources. Nepal has unused energy potential equal to 83,000 megawatts, but the lack of infrastructure forces it to import electricity from India.

The Nepal Muslim Sangh wants the country’s Muslim community to be recognised as a distinct entity. Muslim leaders tell government and parties that Muslims are not just a “vote bank”, demand specific steps in favour of Muslims.

The university movement affiliated with the communist party CPN (UML) won the presidency in 92 universities. The movement connected to the Maoist party in power came in third, winning on 48 campuses. The voting was marked by clashes and violence, a mirror of the climate of political tension in the country.

The trip will last four days. Meetings scheduled with the prime minister, foreign minister, and local activists. The Maoist government is under observation. Violence is down with the end of the war, but a widespread climate of fear remains. Impunity and lawlessness are the most urgent problems.

The Jesuit missionary founded two institutes for the recovery of the country's historical heritage, and promoted education for young Nepalese. The Hindu community: we were enlightened by his books. The Muslims: we are shocked by his death, and we are praying for him.

Police in anti-riot gear are deployed in great number to monitor potential flash points, including temples where Tibetan Buddhists pray. A woman in exile for the past 40 years talks about the situation.

Samdhong Rinpoche, Tibet’s prime minister-in-exile, says that as a “sovereign and independent nation” Nepal must not submit to directives by “foreign powers.” Nepal’s Maoist government reassures Beijing that it will not tolerate anti-Chinese demonstrations, signalling instead its interest for a “peace and friendship treaty.”

The People's Liberation Army wants to increase its numbers to 25,000. The decision comes in response to the army's statement that it has enlisted 2,800 new personnel. Many young people, especially the unemployed, are ready to enter the ranks of the rebels.

China’s deputy foreign minister visits Nepal, tells Nepalis about his country’s concerns over protests to mark the 50th anniversary of Tibet uprising. Bilateral deals are signed. China will help Nepal build a hydroelectric plant. Nepali prime minister plans to visit Beijing to sign a new friendship treaty.

For the first time since the end of the monarchy, Gyanendra has gone to New Delhi. It is possible that he will meet with Prime Minister Singh and members of the BJP. For the former Nepalese ambassador in India, the former monarch could ask for pressure on the Maoist government.

More than 400,000 devotees at the temple of Pashupati. Extremely heavy security measures. Authorities outlaw use of marijuana. The faithful are still outraged over the dismissal of the Indian monks, ordered by the government in January.

The government imposes a 5 per cent extra tax on private schools. Final exams will not be held unless schools pay up. Private school associations are up in arms against what they consider a “violation of the right to education.” Catholic schools are also affected but will pay the tax to allow students to complete their exams.