The District Administration Office (DAO) in Kathmandu has implemented a prohibition on mass gatherings in the area stretching from Maitighar Mandala to New Baneshwor for the next 30 days, effective from November 20.
The restricted zones span from Maitighar Mandala to Baneshwar, covering Padmodaya Mode to Singhadurbar West Gate, through the Supreme Court, encircling Maitighar. Additionally, it extends from Maitighar Mandala to Babarmahal and Bijulibazzar Bridge to New Baneshwor Chowk.
This order comes ahead of planned demonstrations scheduled for November 23 in the capital city, as announced by Yuwa Sangh Nepal, an organization affiliated with CPN-UML, and Durga Prasain group.
The issued orders underscore concerns about possible conflicts during simultaneous gatherings, emphasizing the risk of disputes and confrontations compromising law and order, potentially leading to riots. DAO has now assigned the Balkhu Area for the Durga Prasain group for their demonstrations.
Alongside, Advocate Swagat Nepal has filed a writ petition at the Supreme Court challenging the DAO’s decision to impose a prohibitory order in Maitighar Mandala. The petition claims that the order suppresses citizens’ right to peaceful assembly. The Supreme Court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for Wednesday.
