KATHMANDU, April 19: Protesters from the 'No Cable Car' group chanted slogans against CPN-UML Secretary Yogesh Bhattarai during his recent visit to Taplejung, his home district.
Bhattarai had traveled to Lelep in Phaktanglung Rural Municipality-6 by helicopter, alongside former Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Sudan Kirati, to attend the Diamond Jubilee celebration marking the first human ascent of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Mahara supporters chant anti-MCC slogans
After the event concluded and Minister Kirati departed, Bhattarai went to use the restroom at the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council. As he entered, around 8 to 10 protesters from the 'No Cable Car' and an identity-based group began chanting slogans, temporarily trapping him inside.
Taplejung Police Chief, DSP Rabi Rawal, confirmed the incident. "A group of about 8 to 10 people shouted slogans briefly. No further incident occurred and we haven't received any photos or videos," he said. "The reports circulating in some media do not reflect the actual situation."
Police heightened security after the protest, escorted Bhattarai to a secure location and arranged his safe return to Kathmandu.
Tensions have been rising in Taplejung as identity-based groups continue to oppose the proposed Pathibhara cable car project.
