KATHMANDU: Ashika Tamang, a name that has recently dominated social media, has been arrested in Kathmandu following a series of controversial incidents that have sparked both admiration and criticism.
Known for branding herself as a social reformer, Tamang’s rise to prominence is a stark reflection of the growing frustration and disillusionment in Nepali society, where citizens struggle with systemic issues in politics, bureaucracy, and daily life.
This situation has led to what many call a ‘mass frustration’—a sentiment shared by the public, who are increasingly voicing their discontent.
Nepal’s citizens are caught in a daily grind marred by inefficiency, corruption, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. Employees spend weeks on simple tasks only to encounter bureaucratic hurdles or demands for bribes. Meanwhile, politicians continue to fail in fulfilling their promises, while public complaints remain ignored and state bodies seem incapable of addressing citizens’ grievances in a timely manner.
In this environment of growing despair, many feel that the country is not being run by its rulers but by the grace of Pashupatinath, leaving a void that citizens are desperately hoping someone will fill. This sense of powerlessness has led the public to increasingly turn to social media influencers as potential advocates for change.
Rise of Ashika Tamang
It was in this atmosphere of frustration that Ashika Tamang, originally from Malekhu, Dhading, found her platform. Tamang first gained attention with a viral video during Dashain, where she tearfully lamented the slaughter of a goat, claiming it had small children.
Though initially mocked, the video quickly gained traction and earned her the nickname ‘Khasini Didi’ (Goat Sister). Over time, her online presence blossomed, and she amassed a following of 1.5 million on Facebook, positioning herself as a vocal critic of various societal issues.
However, her activism has not been without controversy. Tamang became known for protesting against a range of public issues, from the parking fees at Tribhuvan International Airport to charges levied on devotees at the Dakshinkali Temple.
She also gained attention for her outspoken stance against public urination, creating viral videos in which she approached men who urinated openly, highlighting her efforts to curb the practice. These acts of protest often captured media attention, with some YouTubers amplifying her messages and further fueling her popularity.
Arrest
One of the most infamous incidents involving Ashika Tamang took place at the Pashupatinath Temple, where she clashed with police officers in support of contract employees staging a sit-in. During the protest, Tamang engaged in a verbal altercation with the officers, which marked the beginning of her legal troubles. Her increasingly confrontational approach, which had become a defining feature of her activism, set the stage for her eventual arrest.
Following this altercation, Tamang was detained in Kathmandu on charges of indecent behavior. The District Police Range confirmed her arrest, which was based on a warrant issued by the District Administration Office. The warrant highlighted the necessity of immediate action to prevent the destruction of evidence.
Despite her resistance and demands for the original arrest warrant, Tamang was taken into custody after a brief standoff. She was subsequently transported to the Metropolitan Police Range Gaushala for further investigation.
Social media frenzy
Tamang’s arrest quickly sparked a wave of mixed reactions on social media. While some supporters lauded her for speaking out against corruption and injustice, drawing comparisons to other popular figures like Rabi Lamichhane, others criticized her for her perceived disregard for social decency and respect for legal norms.
Sociologist Nirmala Dhakal likened Tamang’s rise to Lamichhane’s, viewing her actions as a shortcut to fame without regard for rules. Journalist Durga Pangeni also voiced concerns, noting that in many countries, government employees are treated with respect rather than being publicly confronted.
Nevertheless, Tamang’s supporters argue that her willingness to challenge entrenched power structures is a breath of fresh air in a system that often exploits the common people. Prakash Thapa, a supporter, believes Tamang’s courage to take a stand against the status quo is something many are too afraid to do.
The cost of fame
Despite her fame as a social media activist, Tamang’s confrontational tactics and public clashes with authorities have attracted significant scrutiny. Her actions have brought her both admiration and criticism, but they also have serious legal consequences. Although she claims to have entered social work independently, her approach has made her a polarizing figure.
Deepak Khanal, Senior Administrative Officer and Spokesperson of the Nepal Press Council, has raised concerns about the lack of regulation in the media, particularly platforms like YouTube, which have played a major role in amplifying such viral figures.
Without a clear legal framework, the rise of influencers like Tamang could potentially lead to further chaos, with no accountability for their actions.
Who is Ashika Tamang?
Ashika Tamang’s journey has been one of resilience. After working for eight years in a different household to support her education, she earned a scholarship to study nursing. She later moved to Germany, married a local, and started a family.
Despite early hardships, she continued to gain recognition for her social work, including sanitation initiatives and charitable efforts under her own foundation.
Her foray into acting, with the film Sushree starring Aryan Sigdel, was not well-received, but it was her social activism and viral content creation that truly garnered her fame.
A society divided
Tamang’s arrest serves as a microcosm of the broader tensions in Nepali society. While some view her as a much-needed voice of dissent, others see her actions as damaging to social decency and legal norms. The rise of such viral figures raises complex questions about the responsibilities of influencers and the role of the state in regulating them.
As Tamang’s case continues to unfold, it is a reminder of the power dynamics at play in a society searching for new voices to represent its frustrations. Whether she will be seen as a champion for change or a cautionary tale remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the growing divide in Nepali society is far from over, and the search for real change is still very much alive.
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