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Published: Monday June 1, 2009 MYT 3:10:00 PM

Strike shuts down Nepal's capital


KATMANDU, Nepal (AP): Supporters of an ethnic rights group stopped vehicles and closed down markets in Nepal's capital Monday, demanding that the city be turned into an autonomous state.

The strike called by joint action committee for the Newa people crippled life in the city.

Supporters of the group blocked off main intersections of Katmandu, stopping vehicles and forcing shopkeepers to close their doors.

Streets were mostly deserted, while government workers were forced to walk to their offices.

The committee demands that Katmandu, the national capital, be declared an autonomous state for the Newa ethnic group and that their language be recognized as one of Nepal's official languages.

The Newa are original inhabitants of Katmandu and surrounding areas. They make up only about small percentage of the Nepal 27 million population, but most of them are based in Katmandu.

Newas, who are mostly businessman and farmers, say their language should be recognized because of their roots and history in Katmandu.

Police said there were reports of minor violence Monday morning by supporters enforcing the strike, but no major incidents were reported.

Security was stepped up, with policemen in riot gear posted in main areas of Katmandu. However, they did not stop the organizers from enforcing the strike.

Calling general strikes is a common tactic used by pressure groups in Nepal.

Organizers and supporters usually enforce these strikes by forcing people to close their businesses and attacking vehicles who defy their call.

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