Dozen human rights activists including Charan Prasain arrested from Maitighar Mandala

KATHMANDU, July 5: Police on Thursday morning arrested student leaders and human rights activists while protesting against the government’s decision to designate Shanti Batika and Maitighar Mandala as restricted zones on Thursday morning.

The arrested are Charan Prasain, Indra Prasad Aryal , Surendra Bhandari, Mohan Gyawali, Uddhab Pyakurel, Lokendra Pokharel, M.M. Acharya, Lokraj Awasthi, Bishwa Duwal, Jayaram Dahal, Sagar Adhikary, Loktantra Pokhrel.

Human rights activists have accused the government of orientating itself toward totalitarianism  by designating prohibited zones in violation of constitutionally guaranteed rights.

Meanwhile, they warned of strong agitation if the government did not withdraw its decision and  address the demands of Ganga Maya and Govinda KC without delay.

It may be noted that Maitighar Mandala and Shanti Batika, which are popular places for protests and demonstrations, have been designated as prohibited zones by the government, with effect fom coming July 17.