Nepal constitution: Violent protests mark feedback day

KATHMANDU: Violent protests by parties opposed to provisions in the draft constitution marked the first day of feedback collection for Nepal’s new statute on Monday.

Most of the protests took place in Siraha, Rautahat, Mohattari and Dhanusa districts bordering India where Madhesi parties are opposing the ‘unequal’ provisions in the draft.

The government has declared a two-day holiday starting Monday so that lawmakers can collect feedback on the draft from the masses in their respective constituencies.

Police fired several rounds in the air and resorted to tear gas to disperse an unruly mob at Gaur in Rautahat district where former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal was collecting feedback.

Cadres belonging to Madhesi parties threw chairs, pelted stones, tried to manhandle Nepal and damaged his vehicle.

Maoist chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda had to abandon his feedback collection programme in Siraha district after protesters hurled stones towards the stage where he was sitting.

Several persons including policemen were hurt in an ensuing clash to bring the situation under control.