An indefinite prohibitory order has been imposed in Phungling, Taplejung, from February 23. The District Administration Office issued a press release stating that the order will remain in effect from 5 AM until further notice in the designated areas of Phungling Municipality’s market area and the Kaflepati-Ballu Dada.
According to the press release, the prohibitory order was issued to prevent demonstrations, rallies, clashes, and disturbances that could disrupt peace and security in the Phungling Municipality market area. As per Section 6 of the Local Administration Act, 1971 (with amendments), gatherings, assemblies, rallies, and protests, involving more than five people are prohibited in the restricted area.
The prohibitory order has been issued for specific areas within the Phungling Municipality market area. These include: to the east, Phungling Municipality-7, Salleri; to the west, Phungling Municipality-7, Ghodechaur (up to the Thalang Dhara area); to the north, Phungling Municipality-4, Ukalipani; and to the south, Phungling Municipality-6, Sherpa Tol (Veterinary Kanchanjunga Tol). Additionally, the order applies to the Kaflepaati-Ballu Dada area, covering the following: to the east, a 100-meter radius from the Tourist Police Building; to the west, the Balludanda-Dadele area; to the north, the Cable Car Base Station (100 meters from the water source area); and to the south, a 100-meter radius from the New Bus Park area, including the forest area. It has been stated that any individual or group that violates the issued order or obstructs its enforcement during the declared period will be subject to legal action as per the prevailing laws.
There have been repeated clashes between the supporters of ‘No Cable Car’ and the police in Taplejung. After completing their pilgrimage in the Pathibhara area, the protesting No Cable Car supporters marched with torches and, on the night of February 21, threw fire at houses, leading to an unusual situation, according to DSP Ravi Rawal. The clashes following the torch-lit procession and protest have escalated tensions. The protesting group has accused the authorities of raiding the homes and hotels where the protesters were staying, beating them, making arrests, and subjecting them to inhuman behavior.