KATHMANDU: The government has formed a negotiation committee to address the ongoing dispute over the construction of a cable car in Pathibhara, Taplejung.
On Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs established the committee under the leadership of Joint Secretary Prem Prasad Bhattarai.
It includes representatives from the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, and the Ministry of Urban Development.
However, protesters remain dissatisfied, demanding an immediate halt to construction and the unconditional release of detained activists before engaging in dialogue.
Protests and shutdowns have been ongoing in Taplejung and other districts of Koshi Province for over a week. The “No Cable Car Group” and identity-based activists have intensified demonstrations, prompting the government to initiate negotiations. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has already invited the protesting groups for talks.
A week ago, Minister Lekhak discussed the issue with lawmakers from Taplejung, Tehrathum, Ilam, Panchthar, Dhankuta, Bhojpur, and Sankhuwasabha. CPN-UML Secretary and Taplejung MP Yogesh Bhattarai also participated in the discussions.
The protests turned violent on January 26, leading to clashes between security forces and demonstrators. More than 24 people were injured, including 20 security personnel and four protesters.
Two demonstrators suffered gunshot wounds, and another sustained a fractured shoulder. They were airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment.
The ongoing protests have disrupted transportation on the Mechi Highway and in districts like Morang, Jhapa, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Taplejung, Dhankuta, Sankhuwasabha, and Bhojpur.
The negotiation team has already begun its work, urging protesters to withdraw their demonstrations and resolve the issue through dialogue.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has also directed the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration to take the necessary initiatives to address the situation.
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