Gen Z Movement demands immediate release of YouTuber Pokharel
The arrest has triggered strong criticism from the Gen Z Movement.
KATHMANDU: A controversy has erupted after YouTuber Roshan Pokharel was arrested in Panchthar over allegations of creating content containing abusive remarks directed at Prime Minister Balen Shah. The arrest has triggered strong criticism from the Gen Z Movement, which has demanded his immediate release, calling the detention an attack on freedom of expression.
In a statement issued by spokesperson Bijay Shah, the group said the arrest over speech-related content was “wrong and objectionable,” urging authorities to “protect freedom of expression and not move towards authoritarianism.” The statement emphasized that free expression is a fundamental democratic right that must be safeguarded in all circumstances.
The Gen-Z Movement also referenced past controversial remarks made by political leaders, including Prime Minister Balen Shah, arguing that punishing citizens for expressions or opinions would set a dangerous precedent. It questioned whether similar standards would be applied uniformly if past statements by political figures were scrutinized.
Authorities have not yet issued a detailed public statement outlining the full legal basis for Pokharel’s arrest. The case has intensified ongoing debate in Nepal over the boundaries of online speech, political criticism, and digital accountability.
