November 24: Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat has said no one will be exempted from defaulting on loans. Speaking at a programme organised in Bhaktapur on the occasion of the Shankhadhar Day by Madhyapurthimi Municipality, the minister said everyone is bound to pay the loan when they take it and invest rampantly.    
"The biggest amount of loan is taken, and not paid? No one will be exempted from not paying loans. However, the state will look after the genuine debtors who are suffering due to loans," he said.    
Stating that economic development could be achieved through the development of information and technology, hydropower and tourism in Nepal, he urged youths to tap in the opportunities the country has for them.    
Saying that no one could take away the republic achieved through the sacrifices of the people, he said the wishes of anyone (if any) of changing the system by spreading negative sentiments would not be fulfilled. Efforts are underway to spread propagandas against this system through social media, he said.

28 injured in clash at Balkhu   
Twenty-eight persons including police were injured in a clash that occurred between Nepal Police and demonstrators at Balkhu on Thursday.    
Five police persons and 23 demonstrators were injured in the skirmish, according to Kathmandu Valley Police Office. They were injured while containing the mob and ensuring security.    
Among those injured in the clash, 17 have returned home after minor treatment, while six are undergoing treatment at Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal.    
The demonstrators gathered at a massive rally organized by Durga Prasain-led campaign had pelted stones on security persons.    
In response, the police fireed 157 teargas shells and five rounds of rubber bullets to control the mob, the Office said. -- RSS