Hundreds Protesting Terrorism Bill Held

At least 438 protesters were arrested during a nationwide strike called by the nation’s Communist parties, police said. But Prem Suwal, a spokesman for the nine parties, said more than 600 people were arrested for organizing rallies against a proposed anti-terrorism law. Dozens were injured in clashes with police, he said. The strike shut down shops in Katmandu, the capital, and elsewhere. The Communist parties say the anti-terrorism bill in parliament gives the government sweeping powers that could be used against political opponents.