Tourists support pro-democracy movement, nine arrested

As anti-government demonstrations entered the sixth day, tourists currently visiting Nepal have taken out a rally in the capital, Kathmandu, on Tuesday calling for restoration of peace and democracy in the country.

Police intervened at the demonstration being participated in by nearly 200 tourists under the banner of “Free International Tourist.” The banned being carried by the tourists demanded lifting of the curfew, resumption of peace negotiations and restoration of democracy in the country.

Tourism is one of the main sources of foreign exchange earnings of Nepal. The number of tourists visiting Nepal has declined continuously since 2000. Officials blame Maoist insurgency and acute political instability in the country as mainly responsible for decline in the tourist arrival.

Tourism entrepreneurs fear that prolonged curfew in the Nepali capital and other cities and arrest of tourists may send negative message to the outside world. nepalnews.com by Apr 11 06

Related News
- Tourists protest curfew, general strike