The air in Kathmandu is filled with tension and anticipation, not for a celebration or a momentous occasion, but rather for a demonstration scheduled for Thursday. The mastermind behind this controversy is none other than a controversial medical practitioner, Durga Prasai. The buzz surrounding the event has grown, reaching not only the public but also the corridors of powers within the government and security apparatus. Political demonstrations have become a norm in our society, but this particular event has captured the attention of many due to the uncertainty surrounding the nature of the demonstration itself. The looming question in the minds of the public is not merely about the political affiliations or networks associated with the event but rather how peaceful or tumultuous the demonstration might unfold. What has added worry in the minds of the people is the plan of the CPN-UML’s youth wing, led by Mahesh Basnet, to hold a counter-demonstration on the same day. This has created an atmosphere of contention akin to a clash of the Titans between Durga Prasai and Mahesh Basnet.
Cooperative victims gather at Bhrikutimandap to hold corner mee...
Durga Prasai's ascent to prominence has been swift, transforming from an individual without any organized power or group into a figure whose actions resonate across the nation. Allegations of promoting anti-constitutional, anti-republican, and anti-federalist sentiments have been levied against Prasai, prompting the UML-affiliated youth and student organizations to organize counter-protests. The narrative now seems to pit Prasai against the forces aligned with the ruling party, resembling a larger-than-life showdown between ideologies. As the elements supporting monarchy and Hindu state have also shown their support for the Prasain-led campaign, there are apprehensions that this may even turn out to be a violent protest. Keeping this in view, the government appears to have made necessary security arrangements to contain possible violence. While local administrations in Kathmandu and Lalitpur have enforced prohibitory orders in several locations in the city, police have beefed up security measures to avoid any untoward incidents. Additionally, the local administrations have designated Tinkune for UML and Balkhu for the Prasai-led group to hold demonstrations, with an intention to limit their protest activities in the designated areas.
In the midst of these brewing tensions, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of peaceful demonstrations. The focus should shift from a clash of ideologies to constructive dialogue that allows for the expression of diverse opinions without resorting to violence or endangering the lives of ordinary citizens. The youth association and ANNFSU, in their planned demonstration against smuggling, rising prices, corruption, and perceived societal chaos, should set an example of responsible civic engagement. Likewise, the Prasain-led group must also ensure that their campaign, which they have called to 'save the nation, nationality, religion, culture, and citizens,' remains within the bounds of peaceful expression. As a newspaper, we urge all sides engaged in demonstrations to prioritize the safety and well-being of the general public. We also call on police personnel on duty to exercise restraint so that this does not breed further violence. Let this be a call for peaceful and constructive dialogue that transcends ideological differences, fostering an environment where diverse voices can be heard without the fear of chaos or harm.
