KATHMANDU: A total of fourteen activists from the group protesting the construction of a cable car in Pathibhara-Mukkumlung, Taplejung, were released following a government agreement.
The activists were released unconditionally on Wednesday, in line with the six-point agreement reached between the government and the protesters on Tuesday.
A leader of the protesting group confirmed that 8 activists arrested in Damak, Jhapa, and 6 arrested in Sunsari had been released.
These arrests took place during the week-long strike, which saw 6 individuals detained in Dharan, Sunsari, and 8 in Damak, Jhapa earlier this week.
The release process is still ongoing for three individuals arrested after a clash in Taplejung.
Pradeep Maden, Chandrasagar Limbu, and Lakshuman Limbu are facing charges of indecent behavior, and their release is dependent on the progress of the case.
According to the government agreement, the 14 activists were released unconditionally on Wednesday.
Dakendra Thegim, chairman of the Province 1 Re-nomination Campaign Committee with Identity, welcomed the release.
“14 people have been released. The case of three friends from Taplejung is progressing, and their release process is underway. In our talks, we have emphasized the cancellation of the cable car project,” Thegim said.
“The government has said that they plan to go ahead with the project, but no final agreement has been reached. Talks are ongoing.”
Thegim stated that no conclusion has been reached based on Tuesday’s agreement, and further discussions will take place again to work towards a resolution.
Proposal for talks with Home Minister
The protesting group insists on holding talks with Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak instead of government officials.
Thegim emphasized that they are requesting the Home Minister’s participation in talks.
“We’ve agreed that talks will happen at the top level, and I believe the Home Minister will attend the talks,” he said.
Currently, the negotiation team is led by Home Ministry Joint Secretary Prem Prasad Bhattarai, but Thegim has insisted that negotiations with him are no longer productive.
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