- Police arrested Durga Prasai in Bhaktapur after he launched a campaign to restore Nepal’s monarchy and Hindu state status.
- Prasai’s movement criticizes the current political system, focusing on corruption, economic challenges, and protecting the country's religious and cultural heritage.
- While specific charges remain undisclosed, the arrest followed a press conference where he voiced strong opposition to major political parties.
- The incident has triggered public debate over the balance between national security and the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Medical entrepreneur and political activist Durga Prasai was arrested by police in Bhaktapur on Sunday, shortly after he announced a new protest campaign demanding the restoration of Nepal as a Hindu state and the reinstatement of the monarchy.
Prasai, the coordinator of the National, Nationality, Religion, Culture and Citizens’ Protection Campaign, was taken into custody by a joint team from the Crime Investigation Office, Teku, and the District Police Range, Bhaktapur.
His arrest came hours after he held a press conference in Kathmandu and announced plans to launch a nationwide movement against what he described as the country’s deteriorating political situation and failure of the existing system to address citizens’ concerns.
During the press conference, Prasai said his campaign would focus on protecting Nepal’s national identity, religious traditions, cultural heritage, and citizens’ rights. The restoration of a Hindu state and monarchy were among the key demands highlighted by him.
Police officials said Prasai was detained as part of an ongoing investigation, although details regarding the specific charges against him and the legal process have not yet been made public.
Prasai, who has remained active in public campaigns in recent years, has frequently criticized major political parties and the current governance system. He has raised issues related to corruption, economic difficulties, financial institutions, and public dissatisfaction, presenting himself as a voice against the established political order.
However, his political activities and public statements have also drawn controversy. Critics have accused him of making provocative remarks that could affect social harmony and public order, while his supporters argue that he is exercising his constitutional right to express political views and organize peaceful protests.
The timing of Prasai’s arrest has intensified debate among political observers and civil society groups regarding the balance between maintaining public security and protecting democratic rights, including freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly.
The arrest comes at a time when debates over Nepal’s political direction, governance, and the future of the country’s constitutional system continue to occupy public discourse. The government’s response and the legal proceedings against Prasai are expected to draw further attention in the coming days.
