Kathmandu, Sep 7 (Prensa Latina) The general strike called by the Madhesi ethnic group in southern Nepal against projected territorial changes entered today its fourth week amid a shortage of products in the region.
Last month the United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF), made of three parties of the community, launched the call to strike in order to reject the creation of seven federal provinces and demand greater political participation of that historically marginalized group.

The strike paralyzed Terai, a long stretch in southern Nepal bordering India, where this ethnic group has a strong presence. Since then 29 people, including 10 security agents, were killed in various clashes in the area, said yesterday the Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Bamdev Gautam.

The official accused protesters of using bladed weapons, such as spears, machetes and knives to attack the police, burn down or loot government offices and vehicles.

The Nepal News website revealed on Monday that the strike affects the social and economic life of the southern districts by closing of schools, factories and businesses.

Many farmers are irritated by the lack of fertilizers in Saptari district, said the website.

The region is facing shortage of petroleum, LP gas, food items and many laborers have been out of work for days, said The Himalayan Times.

We have no option but to stay on empty stomach because everything is closed. Besides, we don't have cash to buy goods, said to the newspaper Methur Sah, a taxi driver of Gaur.

The projected changes are part of the discussions to sanction the new Constitution, a pending issue since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008.