KATHMANDU, March 25: A group of individuals stormed the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) distribution center in Bharatpur, assaulted its chief, Ramu Shrestha, and vandalized the office after derogatory remarks against Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli appeared on the digital display board.
The attack took place around 10 AM on Tuesday when 35-40 people entered the office and physically assaulted Shrestha in his chamber. The assailants also damaged office property, including computers and tables, according to an NEA statement.
The controversy began on Monday afternoon when offensive remarks targeting Prime Minister Oli were displayed on the NEA’s digital board for about an hour. In response, a team from the Youth Association and ANNFSU visited the office on Tuesday to submit a memorandum regarding the incident.
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Condemning the attack, the Bharatpur distribution center stated in a press release, “Using abusive language against an individual holding the esteemed position of Prime Minister violates the constitution and existing laws. Those responsible must face strict action under the Cybercrime Act and relevant legal provisions.”
Additionally, the NEA family has issued a public appeal, demanding legal action against those responsible for the vandalism and assault. They have also called for immediate security measures to ensure the safety of employees, expressing concerns over their well-being.
On Monday, the government removed Kulman Ghising from his position as the Managing Director of the NEA. Later that evening, the digital board at the Bharatpur center displayed a slogan against Prime Minister Oli.
This slogan led to the assault on Chief Shrestha, which took place on Tuesday morning. According to the center's administration chief, Nandaram Bista, a group of youths suddenly entered the office and attacked Shrestha. "He must have had difficulty. He left the office," Bista said.
Bista reported that the group vandalized items such as computers, flowerpots and doors and windows.
The board typically displays informative messages for customers. However on Monday, a slogan against Prime Minister Oli suddenly appeared on the display. "As soon as we found out, we deleted it," Bista said, adding, "We are also shocked as to how that was caused."
The NEA has termed the hacking of the digital board and the display of offensive remarks against the Prime Minister as an unfortunate and illegal act, urging authorities to take stringent action against those involved.
