Dhawal Shumsher Rana condemns Durga Prasai’s arrest, demands immediate release

Kathmandu. Royalist leader Dr. Dhawal Shumsher Rana has condemned the arrest of his colleague Durga Prasai and demanded his immediate release.

Issuing a press release on Monday, Rana said criticism, dissent and opinions are the pillars of the democratic system. “Freedom of opinion and expression are fundamental rights for the government’s accountability to citizens, democratic balance and progress of the society,” he said.

“There cannot be a democratic system of governance if the government cannot be criticized,” the statement reads.

Stating that goodwill, respect and co-existence among various faiths, religions, cultures and traditions were the fundamental features of the Nepali society, Rana expressed concern over the internal conflict, clashes, arson and loss of lives and property in some parts of the country in the recent period.

“It is the duty of the citizens to ensure the safety of life and property of the citizens in such a sensitive situation, to maintain an environment of lasting peace and to be aware of the accountability of the government,” he said.

In this context, Rana has condemned the arrest of Durga Prasai from his residence last night for exercising the universally established human rights and the constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of opinion and expression.

He also demanded the immediate release of Durga Prasai. Prasain, who was arrested last night, is now in the custody of Bhaktapur Police.