Maoists appeal for voluntary assistance from tourists

The Maoists have appealed the visiting tourists to provide voluntary financial assistance for them.

Issuing the appeal on Thursday, Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, chief of the United Revolutionary People's Council – a political wing of the Maoists – has urged the tourists to provide such assistance only after confirming the authenticity of those asking for donation in Maoists' name.

He issued the appeal in the wake of reports of Maoists' 'donation drive' in Solukhumbu area.

"We have not been forcing for donation as being reported. We request you to provide assistance, voluntarily, if our authentic people approach you," the appeal says.

In the appeal, Dr. Bhattarai has added that his party is in need of financial assistance as it is fighting for liberation of people and has vowed to make use of the money to help backward people. The appeal also advises tourists to contact with party's central office if they have any complaints. nepalnews.com sd Nov 02 07