Time ‘running out’ for Nepal’s absolute ruler

THOUSANDS of people roaring “Down with the monarchy” demonstrated, while state employees were arrested for the first time in the two-week wave of anti-royal protests shaking Nepal.

The demonstration came as Karan Singh, India's new special envoy to Nepal, warned unrest was "spinning out of control" on the eve of his departure for Kathmandu for talks with King Gyanendra and political party leaders.

Diplomats said time was running out for the monarch.