Nepal Police arrested two members of 'Save Lumbini' campaign in Butwal on October 26. The campaign's coordinator Akram Khan and member Wajauddin Khan were arrested from their residences at night.
The campaign's co-coordinator, Ram Bikash Chaudhary told Freedom Forum that the campaign began protest on October 17 against the appointment of Ani Chhoying Dolma as Vice-Chairperson of Lumbini Development Trust. According to Chaudhary, although 727 individuals had applied for the position through an open call, the government appointed Dolma, who was not among the applicants.
According to the District Police Office, Rupandehi, both campaign members were arrested for allegedly engaging in misconduct in a public place during the protest. However, they were released on October 27 after police warning not to repeat such activities.
Chaudhary said that coordinator Khan will continue the protest until the government revokes the appointment.
Freedom Forum is concerned over the incident. Citizens have right to peaceful protest and to express their dissent through demonstrations. Arresting citizens for participating in protests is a violation of their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
