KATHMANDU: Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), Balen Shah, firmly stated his refusal to comply with the High Court’s directive to halt the screening of Indian films in cinema halls across Kathmandu.

Mayor Shah made a defiant statement on Thursday, expressing his refusal to comply with the High Court’s order that prohibits the discontinuation of Indian film screenings in Kathmandu’s film halls.

He announced his intention to defy the recent short-term interim order issued by the Patan High Court.

The court’s directive explicitly states that the screening of films, including those approved by the Censor Board and Indian films, should not be halted.

Following the court’s order, Mayor Balen expressed his defiance through a Facebook post, declaring his refusal to permit the screening of Indian films while expressing his willingness to accept any consequences that may arise.

Additionally, he accused both the court and the Nepal government of being subservient to India, employing the term “slaves” to emphasize his criticism.

Balen expressed his firm stance, stating, “When it concerns the sovereignty and independence of our nation, I will not abide by any law or court.”

He added, “The intentions of the film’s writer become apparent as he claims Nepal to be under the control of India once. This act is seen by the Nepalese government as a mere publicity stunt, while the court’s decision to allow the film’s screening is interpreted as further evidence of Nepal’s alleged subjugation to India.”

He seemed resolute in his position, asserting that he is prepared to face any consequences but will not permit the film to be screened.

Balen made a decision to prohibit the screening of Indian films starting last Monday.

The reason cited for this action was the presence of a dialogue in the Indian film “Adipurush” where the character Janaki is identified as the daughter of India.

The Mayor asserted that unless this particular dialogue is removed from the film, it will not be allowed to be screened in Kathmandu.