Nepali police and security forces have been accused of using excessive armed force against protestors since the start of a nationwide strike on 5 April 2006. In just one day, twelve people were seriously injured in when police fired upon crowds in two separate incidents on 12 April. Click here for more information.
The general strike has been organised by the seven main political parties in Nepal, objecting to the absolute rule of King Gyanendra, who seized power on 1 February 2005.
The long curfew has presented great difficulties for ambulances and other first aid technicians, preventing the effective treatment of injuries, according to the Center for Research and Global Communication, an IANSA member.
IANSA members in Nepal are calling for international pressure to persuade King Gyanendra to restore democracy. They also urge the government to investigate the excessive use of force by law enforcement personnel.
At the 2006 UN Review Conference in June, the Control Arms campaign will be demanding action to stop the supply of arms for atrocities. Click here to support the campaign for an Arms Trade Treaty by joining the Million Faces petition.
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