TAPLEJUNG, JUL 31 -

With cases of extortion and looting on the rise, traders in Hangpang and Bahanande villages in Taplejung district have been displaced.

Somnath Niraula, a trader in Bahanande, has recently been displaced along with the family after a series of lootings. "Apart from being robbed, I was asked to 'donate' Rs. 700,000," he said. He is now staying in district headquarters Fungling.

Similar is the case of Prabin Baniya in the village. He has been displaced to the Tarai due to insecurity and extortion. "How can we stay on if there is no security of our business?" Baniya asked. He owned a shop in Bahanande.

Raj Kumar Chudal of Hangpang said some businessmen have been displaced while others have opted for another job. With the cases prevailing in the area, big and small traders have been compelled to shut down their businesses. Local people have been affected by the closure of shops and hotels. They are required to walk hours to buy essential commodities.

"We need to reach Dovan, which is a walking distance of two hours, to buy essentials as a result," said Laxmi Pokhrel, a local.

Posted on: 2010-07-31 08:42

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