A one-day general strike called by the Maoists Monday disrupted normal life in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu and in several districts in west Nepal.The Maoists called the general strike in Kathmandu to protest the alleged murder of their local leader and demanded action against those involved. Maoist supporters manned the main intersections of the capital, stopping vehicles and enforcing their strike.
The main markets, financial and educational institutions and shops remained shut in all three cities of Kathmandu valley. Public transport ground to a halt, forcing thousands to walk. Police said there had been sporadic violence, with Maoist supporters smashing up five motor vehicles and setting a motorcycle on fire in Kathmandu. In western Nepal, normal life in seven districts was disrupted by a Maoist strike to pressure the government to sack the army chief Rukmangat Katuwal.
Media reports said long-distance bus services and private transport had been affected across the region and factories, shops and schools shut down. The Maoist strike in western Nepal was part of their campaign against President Ram Baran Yadav for reinstating the army chief sacked by the Maoist-led government in early May. The Maoists have since organised daily strikes across the country, alleging the president's decision was an "attack on civilian supremacy."