Kathmandu, February 7:

The National Human Rights Commission has urged the Maoists to call off the remaining days of the bandh stating that it has affected the public life.

The civilians’ right to carry on with their daily occupation, business and to move around has been curbed, said an NHRC statement. The commission has termed the use of force and threat to stop the civilians from exercising their rights as a violation of human rights.

It urged the Maoists to uphold their commitment to the principles of human rights and to allow citizens to exercise their rights.

In another statement, the Human Rights Organisation of Nepal has urged the government and the Maoists to announce ceasefire and strive for permanent peace. Urging the concerned parties to immediately begin dialogue, the rights watchdog called for the concerned parties to include political parties on the negotiating table.

Pointing out that the seven-day bandh called by the Maoists has gravely affected business, transport, farmers, labourers and the general public, it urged the rebels to immediately call off the bandh.

It said that the Moaist leadership Prachanda’s interview published in a daily has drawn

its attention.