Balkumari Unrest Update: 73 Detainees Freed Following EPS Protest, No Charges Filed

Kathmandu – In the aftermath of the demonstrations held in Balkumari, Lalitpur, last Friday, the police have announced the release of 73 individuals who were detained during the course of the protest. The demonstration was organized to demand access to fill out forms for the Korean language examination, a prerequisite for participation in the Employment Permit System (EPS) to seek opportunities in Korea.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Kuber Kadayat, serving as the Central Police Spokesperson, confirmed the release of all individuals taken into custody during the demonstration. “All those arrested during the demonstration have been released, and a decision has been made not to press charges against them,” stated DIG Kadayat.

Initially apprehended on charges related to the torching of the vehicle belonging to Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Prakash Jwala and causing property damage, these individuals were subsequently released without facing legal action.

The protest, which escalated into clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulted in the tragic deaths of Sujan Rawat (23) from Mahabu Rural Municipality-6 in Dailekh district and Birendra Shah (22) from Chaurpati Rural Municipality-1 in Achham district.

In response to this unfortunate loss of life, the government has taken steps to provide relief support, sanctioning Rs 1 million for each family of the deceased.

This latest update highlights the release of detainees and the government’s decision to offer financial aid to the families affected by the tragic events stemming from the Balkumari protests.