Kathmandu, April 25:

The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) today lauded all Nepalis who have been successful in ending King Gyanendra’s undemocratic rule. The rights body also demanded the release of all individuals held arbitrarily, while calling on the international community to adopt new measures to address country’s development.

“Perhaps this victory may lead to the ending of monarchy’s role altogether and the beginning of a republic in Nepal. As we wait for that, we congratulate and join in solidarity with the people of the country who have gathered in the streets to force Gyanendra to step down,” said the AHRC in its statement.

It said King Gyanendra needs to be punished for acting against the collective will of the people.

The statement added that attention must now be focussed on developing a constitutional mechanism that allows for people’s voice to be heard.

The AHRC urged the international community to take a fresh perspective to assist the development of Nepal’s infant democracy and preserve Nepali people’s rights.

“Old models of international support may not suffice. We call upon all concerned persons, and particularly the human rights community, to now begin to engage with the people of Nepal in a more positive and dynamic manner,” the statement further says.

The 1990 Constitution, according to the rights watchdog, is not “strong enough to guarantee sustainable democracy. It needs to be strengthened through genuine consultations with the people, who must remain vigilant and engaged in this process.”

It also pointed out the need to strengthen and reform the country’s judiciary and address corruption.

It also said that the culture of fear should now end and the use of torture, forced disappearances and extra-judicial killings with impunity should be completely eradicated.