Gyanendra's crackdown prevented any protest in Kathmandu

Nepal's political leaders, arrested or confined to their homes since &to=http:// english.pravda.ru/main/2001/06/03/6760.html ' target=_blank>King Gyanendra dismissed the Deuba government and took over all powers, could be released soon, local newspapers reported Saturday.

But sources said even as Gurung announced the move, the authorities were continuing to round up political activists, reports New Kerala.

According to the BBC News, the daily newspaper, quoting a "highly placed security source", said some of the arrested leaders might be released. But they would first have to promise not to pose a "threat" to the security situation.

Detention orders have been handed over for dozens of senior politicians, says the government.

King Gyanendra declared a &to=http:// english.pravda.ru/main/2003/01/14/41966.html' target=_blank>state of emergency and imposed media censorship when he sacked the government on Tuesday.