Govt bans demonstrations, gatherings at Maitighar Mandala; decides seven places for demonstrations

Kathmandu / Apr 16: The government has banned the general public from organizing protests, demonstrations or gatherings at Maitighar Mandala, a major crossroads to the south of Singha Durbar in the capital. The decision was taken by the District Administration Office, Kathmandu, as per the instruction of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The ban will come into effect from April 29.

From the mentioned date henceforth, public functions, demonstrations or any kind of protests in the capital will be legally allowed only at seven designated places, namely Tundikhel Khula Manch, Tinkune ground near Koteshwar, Bhuikhel Chaur at Bhagawanpaau, sports ground at Pepsicola, Sano Gaucharan football ground, open space in front of Social Welfare Council, Lainchaur and Sifal Chaur of Gaushala.

The decision was taken on the basis of a recent work plan of the ministry, according to the press statement issued on Sunday by Kathmandu’s Chief District Officer Kedar Nath Sharma.

Due to its close proximity to Singha Durbar, the central secretariat of the government, and its location at the heart of the capital, Maithighar Mandala has been the most favorable place to organize protests and other public functions in the capital.

While many functions and demonstrations at Maitighar have been peaceful, at times, people have to endure hours of traffic congestion due to such demonstrations.