Nepal businesses close in strike against extortion
Shops, industries and transport services were closed in many parts of Nepal on Tuesday in a strike called by a business lobby group to protest against extortion by Maoist rebels.
The powerful rebels, who are fighting to overthrow the constitutional monarchy, say they collect "voluntary donations" to maintain their 35,000-strong force.
Highways were deserted and thousands of people were stranded as a result of the strike called by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI).
"Extortions and threats by the Maoists or their trade unions are continuing," said Chandi Raj Dhakal, the federation president.
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