Kathmandu: The United Nations human rights body yesterday(Feb5, 2007) expressed its deep concerns over the on-going violence in Nepal's Terairegion.

The concerns were raised at a meeting called by the Office of the HighCommissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Nepal with representatives of thegovernment, political parties, CPN-Maoists, Madheshi civil society and humanrights defenders, said a press release here.

Ian Martin, Personal Representative of the UN Secretary General, was alsopresent at the meeting.

OHCHR chief in Nepal, LenaSundh, noted that at least 19 people, in cluding a police officer, had beenkilled since January 19, when the violent demonstrations started and most of thevictims were Madheshis residing in the southern Nepalbordering India.

Sundh urged all those concerned to find out solutions through dialogue andrestore peace.

OHCHR-Nepal has sought clarification on the circumstances of the three latestdeaths reported in Malangwa in Sarlahi district.

Mobile teams of OHCHR-Nepal staff have been monitoring protests andinvestigating killings and other violence in various places including Lahan,Siraha, Inaruwa, Biratnagar, Gaur, Janakpur, Birgunj and Nepalgunj, the releasesaid.

The OHCHR said the government has an obligation to ensure that media and humanrights workers are able to carry out their professional activities withoutobstacles.