Ethnic group strike brings Nepal to a stand still

Kathmandu: Parts of south and south-eastern Nepal were brought to a virtual standstill Wednesday by an indefinite strike called by several ethnic groups calling for greater rights.

The strike was called by ethnic Madhesi to pressure the government on a host of demands including an autonomous state for southern Nepal with the right to self determination.

The strike came despite a call by the government urging the groups to negotiate.

Police said the strike had brought business activity to a halt with offices, educational institutions and markets remaining closed.

Southern Nepal has seen frequent strikes and escalating violence since the end of the communist insurgency in november 2006, resulting in the deaths of more than 140 people.