Blasts rock Nepal hours after rebels call off ceasefire

In its first reaction to the end of the truce, Nepal8217;s royalist government said it stood ready to protect the country.

8220;It is unfortunate. The state is prepared for any eventuality,8221; said junior Information Minister Shris Shumsher Rana. 8220;We are ever vigilant.8221;

The explosions raised fears of a major resumption of violence across Nepal if the rebels step up their attacks.

Expressing its concern over the prospect of an escalation in fighting the UN said it 8220;urges both parties to the conflict to exercise restraint, to respect fully their obligations under international humanitarian law, and to take appropriate measures to establish a mutual ceasefire.8221;

Shanker meets ex-PM

Kathmandu: Indian Ambassador to Nepal Shiv Shanker Mukherjee discussed the current political situation, the seven-party agitation for restoration of democracy and King Gyanendra8217;s direct rule and end of the four-month unilateral ceasefire by Maoists, with former Prime Minister Surya Bahadur Thapa on Monday, party sources said. 8212;PTI