Nepali writers, intellectuals condemn JNU student leader's arrest

Nepali writers, intellectuals and ex-JNU students on Friday condemned the arrest of JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar on a sedition charge and termed it "gross violation of the freedom of expression".

"His arrest is against freedom of expression," said a statement issued by over three dozen Nepali writers, journalists and intellectuals.

Most of them are Nepali Left activists and writers who often criticise the 'nationalist' posture of the Nepal government and advocate a more inclusive Nepali society.

Prominent Nepali writers and columnists like Khagendra Sangarula, C.K. Lal, Kishor Nepla, Hari Rokka, Rajendra Mahanrjan, Manju Shree Thapa and over a dozen ex-Jawaharlal Nehru University students have supported Kumar.

The Indian government is trying to destroy intellect in an academic institution, they said.

"Such act is not only a matter of concern for the Indians but also every citizen who voiced support for an equitable and just society," the statement said.

"We condemn the Indian government's action of trying to muzzle different voices and the freedom of speech," they said.