TAPLEJUNG: Machhapuchhre Bank has frozen the bank account of Saraswata Limbu (Saru), a prominent activist involved in the protests against the construction of the Pathibhara Cable Car.
The bank’s action follows a request from the District Police Office, Taplejung.
Limbu, a member of the negotiation committee representing the protesters during previous talks with the government, was informed of the account freeze when attempting to withdraw money from her account.
According to Limbu, the bank staff informed her that her account had been frozen, but when she requested to see the official letter from the police, they only showed her the invoice number and did not allow her to view the police letter.
Sunil Khatiwada, an information officer at Machhapuchhre Bank, clarified that the freezing of Limbu’s account was in accordance with a legal provision. He explained that if the District Police sends a request to Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) to freeze an account, the NRB can recommend the action, and the bank is obligated to comply.
While the bank followed the protocol, this incident has raised significant concerns among activists and their supporters. The protesters argue that the freezing of Limbu’s account is an infringement on their fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and the right to protest.
Limbu, who has been actively involved in advocating against the cable car project, sees this as retaliation for his activism and involvement in the protest.
According to a source close to Limbu, the activist is seeking legal recourse and has begun consulting with lawyers to explore possible legal action. They also plan to file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission to challenge what they see as an illegal encroachment on their civil rights.
The Pathibhara cable car project has sparked strong opposition from local communities and environmental activists who fear that it will harm the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Limbu and others in the movement have been vocal in their opposition to the project, claiming it could negatively impact the environment and disrupt the local way of life.
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