Kathmandu, September 28:

The police today arrested around 60 Rastriya Jana Morcha cadres, who were enforcing a strike against federalism, from different parts of the valley. All except nine protesters were set free later.

The agitators vandalised at least 12 vehicles in the valley. RJM had called Nepal bandh today demanding protection of national interests and strengthening of the republican order.

The police were in battle gear since early morning to quell protests. Major business houses and educational institutions shut shut, while shops in inner parts of the valley stayed open.

According to the RJM, the police are preparing to file case against them.

Narayan Banjade of the International Nepali Unity Society sustained injury in the police action.

“Due to police suppression, the valley remained tense,” RJM president Chitra Bahadur KC said.

According to KC, a group of people, including YCL cadres, tried to foil their peaceful protests in Lalitpur. The group manhandled central office secretary of the party Hukum Bahdur Singh. Later in the evening, the RJM organised a mass meeting in Bhotahiti. President KC and central committee member Krishna Adhikary addressed the meeting.

KC said the first phase of protest was over, adding that his party would give continuity to the protests after the festivals.