Buddhist Community opposes planned demolition of Balaju Monastery
The controversy has emerged during celebrations of the 2,570th Buddha Jayanti, a period marked by global messages of peace and harmony.
KATHMANDU: Buddhist communities have expressed strong objection after authorities reportedly prepared to deploy demolition equipment at the Ogyn Jamling Terma Monastery in Balaju, Kathmandu, labeling the structure as unauthorized.
The controversy has emerged during celebrations of the 2,570th Buddha Jayanti, a period marked by global messages of peace and harmony.
Monastery representatives say they were alarmed after receiving notice of a planned demolition on Friday, which they described as deeply offensive to Buddhist sentiment.
“We want to clearly state that no harm should come to Buddhists or those who follow the faith. If this monastery is being demolished, we are ready to cooperate with the government, but religious sentiments must be respected,” said a representative associated with the monastery.
Leaders of the monastery have criticized the move, calling it an attack on Buddhist heritage. They also questioned the government’s decision, noting that Prime Minister Balendra Shah had previously taken his oath of office in the presence of Buddhist monks, while now allegedly targeting a place of worship.
“This is an unjust action against Buddhism. This is not merely a structure; it is a center of faith built on community land. The government should reconsider before taking such steps,” said Umesh Lama, a monastery operator.
According to the monastery committee, the structure was established in 2057 B.S. on approximately 8 aana of land and is currently valued at an estimated Rs 14–15 million.
They also claimed that although the site may be considered government property, demolition would amount to destroying public assets rather than protecting them.
The monastery is a two-and-a-half-storey structure, and its operators say they are willing to cooperate with legal processes but oppose what they describe as abrupt demolition actions.
They have urged authorities to take responsibility and avoid actions that could damage religious structures and sentiments.
