KATHMANDU: The United Democratic Madhesi Front has held the CPN-UML responsible for casualties in Saptari district when the UDMF cadres clashed with security personnel.

The UDMF claimed four persons were killed in "police suppression of people's peaceful demonstration" in Saptari, while the Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed three deaths in the late evening.

Casualties were reported as police opened fired at violent protesters outside the venue of CPN-UML's programme today afternoon.

In their bid to disrupt the CPN-UML's Mechi-Mahakali campaign, the UDMF cadres reportedly hurled petrol bombs at security personnel and obstructed vehicular movement throught the day. Explosives were planted near the UML's programme venue earlier today.

Dubbing today's casualties as murder, the UDMF issued a statement in the evening and said the State violated human rights and international laws in Saptari.

The UDMF constituent parties held an emergency meeting at the Federal Socialist Forum Nepal's office in Kathmandu to prepare the UDMF's strategy in the wake of today's incident.

They reportedly decided to withdraw support to the Maoist-Nepali Congress coalition government in protest.

Also, they decided to call a two-day shutdown in Tarai-Madhesh region starting tomorrow.

The UDMF concluded that irresponsible and provocative remarks made by top leaders of top leaders of CPN-UML led to today's incident.

The UDMF further demanded action against those responsible for the loss of life in Saptari and provision of treatment to those who are injured. Several people have been hit by bullets.

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