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Written by Jelena
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Tuesday, 25 August 2009 15:52 |
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Nepal has been under international scrutiny for its handling of Tibetan protesters in Kathmandu. The country has faced criticism for complying with the Chinese government and restricting Tibetans from staging protests in Kathmandu.
On March 17th 2008, At least 44 Tibetan exiles shouting "Free Tibet" were detained in Kathmandu after police broke up two protests outside a Unied Nations complex, using sticks and tear gas. The Nepalese government has is keeping a tight leash on Mt. Everest, the world’s highest peak, to prevent pro-Tibetan demonstrators from rallying against the Olympic torch relay. China has been leaning heavily on Nepal to prevent any possible disruption to the Everest leg of the torch relay. More than two-dozen Nepalese soldiers and policemen have already established several camps on the mountain. In case demonstrators defy all non-violent means of restraints, security persons have the authority to shoot them. However, use of deadly force was authorized only as a means of last resort. In late April, 2008, the Nepalese government deported an American mountaineer, William Holland, after military officials found a “Free Tibet” banner in his rucksack while he was attempting to climb Mount Everest. This shows that Nepal acts in accordance with China’s wishes. No matter what the people think or support, the Nepalese government cannot afford to act against the Chinese government's interest.
http://www.mtholyoke.edu/~shres20u/classweb/beijing_olympics.html
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