http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200502081201.htm


Nepal King's power grab could threaten monarchy: study
Washington, Feb.8. (UNI): Despite seeking to increase the power of the monarchy through the dismissal of the government, Nepal's King Gyanendra could actually endanger his position, according to US geopolitical analysts.

By acting against the Cabinet without actively suppressing the Maoist insurgency, he risks driving the rebels and the political parties to unite with a common goal of ridding Nepal of its monarchy, the analysts at Strategic Forecasting (Stratfor) said.

"There has not been enough of a public outcry against the rebels to create a solid base of popular support for the monarchy," they said.

In addition to internal problems, Gyanendra could also face external pressure, Stratfor said.

India, it said, has become increasingly concerned over Maoist rebel activity.

Gyanendra hoped to use the specter of a common threat to gain support from New Delhi, but India described Gyanendra's February 1 actions as "a serious setback to democracy in Nepal".

"India may feel inclined to oppose Nepal if it sees the potential for the Maoists to garner the pro-democracy parties' support."