Jul 10, Kathmandu - ​​​​​​​The Nepali Congress has alleged that 25-year-old Ganesh Nepali was compelled to attempt self-immolation. Addressing the House of Representatives on Friday, Congress Whip Basna Thapa recounted the incident, stating that Nepali was forced to set himself on fire in front of the Passport Department.

While raising the issue in Parliament, Thapa also recalled a similar incident that took place on Magh 10, 2079, when poet and activist Prem Acharya attempted self-immolation outside the Parliament building in New Baneshwor. At that time, Balen Shah was the Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City. Thapa pointed out that Shah had posted a social media statement emphasizing the state’s policy linked to Acharya’s act.

Thapa questioned Shah’s silence now, asking, “Do you still remember your social media post when Acharya self-immolated outside Parliament? Or have you forgotten, Prime Minister?”

She further questioned why Shah, who previously expressed concern, remains silent now that he is in a position of power.