2.02.2006

weird happenings

What’s up with the King’s men courting Hindu fundamentalists? Dr. Tulsi Giri has invited BJP’s Advani to visit Nepal. And the government handed down the largest sum ever given to any non-governmental Nepali group, 45 lakhs. The group was Vishwa Hindu Parishad. One of their presidents used to live in my house in Janakpur once, and Ashok Singhal, the main man of VHP came to visit.

And for once, the students in Nepal’s colleges are displeased at having their vacation extended. The vacation was extended to avoid clashes between students and security forces before the elections, as the situation will most likely deteriorate in the coming week. One cartoon satirized – “You vacation has been extended by two weeks. And your homework: cast 20 votes each.”

Fearing low participation in the polls, the government has made voting mandatory for government employees. There are no plans as of yet to provide insurance to voters who will be risking their lives by having to vote against their will. Insurance has been provided to all employees who will be officiating the polls.

Meanwhile, US army chief for the Pacific and Asian region (or something similar) was ‘granted audience’ by the king. He emphasized ties between the parties and the monarchy.

In the wake of the King’s declaration that the Maoists’ power has decreased substantially and their offences were no more than ‘petty crimes’, the Maoists launched a major attack in Tansen, killing an estimated 20 people. Heavy casualties on their side is also expected. Apparently, the attacking army were about 4000 strong.

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