Kathmandu, June 23

Dr Govinda KC, senior orthopedic surgeon at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, today staged a silent demonstration at Maitighar Mandala, demanding that the government lift the ban on holding protest rallies there.

Protesting against the government’s decision to ban protest rallies and demonstrations at Maitighar Mandala, Dr Govinda KC, along with two dozen other activists, participated in the rally.

District Administration Office, Kathmandu, on April 15 had imposed a ban on holding protest rallies and demonstrations at Maitighar Mandala following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has designated seven locations for holding demonstrations. Protesters can demonstrate only at Open Air Theatre (Khulamanch), Tinkune,  BhuinkhelChaur of Bhagwanpau, playground at Pepsicola, Sano Gaucharan  Ground, open space in front of the Social Welfare Council at Lainchaur  and SiphalChaur.

Accusing the government of being anti-democratic, Dr KC said the government move violated people’s right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.

“In a democracy, people have the right to raise their voice against the government. By placing a ban on holding protests at Maitighar Mandala, the government has violated citizen’s fundamental rights,” said Dr KC.

Maitighar Mandala has become a popular site for holding demonstrations.