Strike paralyses Nepali capital

A general strike has severely disrupted the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu.

The strike was called by left-wing organisations in protest at a controversial new law which they say will make it easier for foreigners -- especially people from India -- to get Nepalese citizenship.

Schools and businesses in Kathmandu remained shut, and there were few vehicles on the otherwise busy streets of the city.

A rally was held to protest against the new law, which was passed last week in a parliamentary session boycotted by the opposition. Opponents say Indians could one day outnumber the Nepalese in Nepal, but the authorities say the new law is aimed at making it easier for the Nepalese themselves to acquire the official citizenship certificate, which they need to get a government job, start a business or buy property or land.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service