The District Administration Office, Kathmandu, has lifted the prohibitory order in the areas spanning from Maitighar Mandala to Baneshwar after five months of enforcement.

The decision comes amidst mounting criticisms from various quarters, including civil society and political groups, regarding the restriction’s impact on citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression.

Last November, the imposition of the prohibitory order was prompted by scheduled demonstrations by the CPN-UML’s Youth Federation and the Durga Prasai group, supporting a royalist movement, at Maitighar on November 23. Concerns over public transport and maintaining law and order led to the enforcement of the order.

Under the prohibitory order, gatherings of more than five people were banned in the area for two months, prohibiting activities such as processions, demonstrations, sit-ins, and meetings.

However, the decision faced widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an attempt to stifle citizens’ voices in an area traditionally used as a platform for expressing opinions.

Sources suggest that Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane instructed the DAO Kathmandu to lift the prohibitory order due to mounting pressure.