An SOS for the Release of Khemraj Sedhain

The Joint People's Movement Committee has strongly objected to the arrest of its advisor, Khemraj Sedhain, saying it was done without any reason and in a manner that poses a threat to his life.  

Sedhai (72) is a heart patient with multiple health complications, the committee stated in a press release: Right before his arrest, Sedhain had sought permission to go home just to fetch his medicines, but police refused to grant the permission. 

Known for his long-time involvement in nationalist and cultural causes, Sedhain had served as the political adviser to former Prime Minister Krishna Prasad Bhattarai.

Although police have linked him with violent incidents that occurred in TInkune and Koteshwor during the May 28 protest of forces rooting for constitutional monarchy and a Sanatan Hindu kingdom, the committee says he had no involvement whatsoever in those incidents, describing them as acts of state-sponsored terrorism. Per the committee, Sedhain was only singing the national anthem at the time and had to be helped off the podium after police fired teargas shells at the podium itself. 

The committee described the arrest as an act of state oppression and demanded the immediate release of Sedhain and other prisoners arrested in connection with the March 28 protest, describing them as prisoners of conscience.

Navaraj Subevi, coordinator of the movement, said the group stands united in calling for justice and the protection of human rights.