On November 17, medical entrepreneur and political activist, Durga Prasai, was arrested from his residence in Bhaktapur at midnight. The authorities have confirmed that he was taken into custody on suspicion of repeatedly issuing statements deemed capable of inciting public unrest and provoking violence.
Prasai had recently announced plans to launch nationwide protests from November 23. In the weeks leading up to his arrest, security agencies had been closely monitoring his activities. He had delivered a series of provocative speeches, warning that he could bring the country “to a standstill.” His group had also submitted a 27-point demand to the Home Ministry, led by Madhav Khatri. They claimed to be coordinating the planned agitation with the Nepali Congress (BP), a small splinter political group.
This is not the first time authorities have intervened in Prasai’s activities. He was previously arrested following the violent demonstration during the pro-monarchy rally on March 28, 2025. The rally turned Kathmandu chaotic, resulting in two deaths and significant damage to private and public property. Despite being released by court order, He continues to face three separate cases, two related to cybercrime and one linked to the March violence.
His latest remarks have targeted high-level figures, including political leaders like Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, and youth activist Sudan Gurung. Officials said the escalating nature of his statements, combined with the upcoming protest call, prompted the swift police action.
The Home Ministry’s security committee, which met on Sunday, had already expressed concern over an increase in inflammatory public statements. Prasai’s name was explicitly mentioned during the discussion, and officials agreed to apply strict legal measures against individuals attempting to incite unrest or spread fear.
Prasai remains in police custody as further inquiries continue.
