KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) proportional candidate Khagendra Sunuwar has clarified that he is a strict vegetarian, following the circulation of a viral video claiming otherwise.
The video, widely shared on social media and in the media in recent days, featured a statement suggesting, “If mutton is allowed, cow should be allowed too.” Sunuwar said the clip is from an old podcast, edited and circulated misleadingly ahead of the elections, apparently to tarnish his image.
Through a Facebook Live session, Sunuwar said he respects everyone’s religion, faith, and social harmony, and urged people not to spread false claims. He strongly objected to the addition of audio promoting cow consumption to his photos and videos.
Sunuwar wrote on social media: “I am a strict vegetarian and oppose the killing of any animal. I respect everyone’s religious faith and social harmony. We are aware of opponents misusing technology to malign me by adding misleading audio to my photos and videos.”
He further stated: “We will not let someone use the cow issue to overshadow other matters. A vegetarian ascetic cannot be accused of eating meat. The video is not true. I remain committed to the nation and nationalism.”
Sunuwar urged the public to remain cautious against the spread of false and misleading content intended to defame candidates during election campaigns.
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