Maoist cadres attack UML Gen Secy

RAMECHHAP, May 17 - The Maoist cadres attacked the vehicles CPN-UML General Secretary Ishwor Pokharel and other leaders were traveling by in Ramechhap district on Sunday evening.
A group of Maoist cadres obstructed the vehicles in which the UML leaders, security personnel and journalists were returning to Kathmandu at the Tiplung road section at around 6 pm this evening.

Police personnel, those escorting the UML leaders had to fire 17 rounds into the air in order take contain the situation. Following the police action, the assaulters fled the site.

Though none sustained injuries in the attack, the vehicle in which journalists were traveling has been damaged.

Earlier today, Pokharel had addressed the mass meeting at the district headquarters Manthali and directed them to unite and fight the violent acts of the Maoists.

He also urged the party men for "tit for tat" if any party or group threatens or physically assaults them first.

The UML organised the mass meeting in the wake of the threats by Maoist leadership in the district to UML cadre and leaders to leave their villages two weeks ago.

Although the Maoist's ultimatum already expired, the UML and Nepali Congress supporters have been living fearing Maoist wrath.

"We must pounce against those issuing threats and attacking us; otherwise, we'll bear the brunt ourselves," he said.

He also accused the Maoists of trampling past accords and agreements reached with other political parties one after next.

"The Maoist's unruly and violent activities are not only targeted towards UML cadre and leader in villages recently, but almost all Nepalese are equally disturbed by their activities," he said.