Calm still reigns in blockaded Katmandu but tensions begin to rise
Kathmandu (AsiaNews) "The situation in the city is relatively calm. People are not that worried for now. But if things don't change soon, there could be riots and violence," this according to Father Paul K C Koma, Vicar of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Kathmandu, who spoke with AsiaNews by phone.
For the past three days roads into the capital have been cut off by Maoist rebel guerrillas who threaten to take hostage anyone found behind a wheel. They demand the release of detained comrades and an investigation into the death of others. Rebels said the blockade around the capital will be enforced till their requests are met.
"In the city supplies could last a month," Father Koma said, "but naturally, prices are rising. As one might expect, this is hurting the poor more than the well-to-do who can get everything they need."
Today two people were injured in a rebel attack against a government building. Shots were fired at a police officer and a bomb exploded without hurting anyone. "The Maoists blockaded the roads to frighten people and spread their propaganda," said another local police officer.
Rebels have little or no following in the city but have garnered support in the countryside where feudal relations still prevail.
Maoist guerrillas have fought the Nepalese monarchy for the past 8 years in a bid to install a communist regime. In 1996, after electing 9 members to the 205-seat parliament, they turned to the armed struggle. Since then around 10,000 people have died in the violence between rebel and security forces. In 2001 the rebels walked out of peace talks with the government and renewed their fight. (LF)
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14/04/2008
