'Cut-off' in govt funding for jatras triggers protest; Home Ministry urges calm

People from Newar community in Kathmandu staged angry protests against the government on Saturday for not allocating budget for traditional jatras (religious festivals) observed in Kathmandu Valley.

People from Newar community protesting the government's decision to cut funding to jatras (traditional religious ceremonies) at Basantapur...

The protesters blocked traffic at several places by burning tyres on the road. There were protest rallies in Basantapur, Teku and Kalimati areas throughout the day. Shops remained closed in these areas with the protesters frequently clashing with the police.

The local Newars took to the streets saying the Finance Minister, who unveiled the budget estimate for the fiscal year 2008/09, cut off the funding for jatras. Protests had started as soon as the Finance Minister presented the budget at the parliament.

On the contrary, some news reports quoting government sources said the funding for jatras has not been cut off. However, the Finance Ministry has not said anything on the matter.

Meanwhile, issuing a statement this evening, the Home Ministry urged the protesters to call off their protest and help maintain peace and security in the capital city.

The ministry also said security has been beefed up in some areas in the capital to prevent possible violence in the wake of the protests. nepalnews.com mk Sept 20 08