The United Nations is closely studying the statement of Nepalese King Gyanendra in which he has reportedly vowed to return power to the people in face of mounting international pressure.

• King Gyanendra restores democracy in Nepal

But the world body would like the democratic set up to be restored earliest, a United Nations spokesman said.

The UN human rights monitors in the Himalayan kingdom have reported restraint by the security forces in handling Friday's pro-democracy demonstrations which were comparatively peaceful, he told reporters.

After UN protested to the army against denial of curfew passes to the monitors Thursday, a limited number of passes were issued Friday which enabled them to visit hospitals at which injured, many with gunshot wounds, were being treated.

Meanwhile, the world body reported shortage of kerosene and gas as also cooking oil and sugar and said vegetables and fruits are becoming scarce in areas where they are not produced.

Hospitals are being overstretched, capacity of doctors and nurses is limited and medical supplies are running low.

Besides, rescue operations have been hindered as very few ambulances have been granted curfew passes, the world body's monitors reported from Kathmandu.