Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed serious concern over remarks made by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli regarding pro-monarchy protests scheduled for Thursday.
Issuing a statement on Thursday, the constitutional human rights watchdog urged Oli to exercise restraint as provocative statements could incite conflict.
Addressing a party program on Sunday, Oli had directed CPN-UML leaders and cadres to ensure that Kathmandu is under UML’s control from 11 am to 2 pm on Thursday.
The NHRC has described this remark as provocative.
Oli was referring to the Kathmandu-centric protest of pro-monarchy forces set to begin from Thursday.
“Statements from any political party about capturing areas are contrary to the rule of law and democratic values. While the constitution guarantees freedom of expression, provocative actions that infringe on others’ rights to expression, protest, or thought are unacceptable,” the NHRC said the statement.
The NHRC has urged all parties to conduct protests peacefully and called on security agencies to maintain law and order in Kathmandu and other areas.
