Security forces using 'excessive force' in demonstrations: NHRC

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has said that the security forces are using 'excessive force' in demonstrations organized by the political parties.

A press statement issued by the NHRC on Wednesday said that it has collected evidences of security men not only using 'excessive force' but also arresting and brutally beating up innocent people and passersby not involved in the protests.

The NHRC also asked the government to issue immediate directions to the security forces not to resort to 'excessive force' or inflict injuries on pedestrians and passersby and recommended the government to provide medical treatment to the injured.

Likewise, the commission also urged all not to promote violent activities through peaceful movement.

Meanwhile, issuing separate statements, various organizations including Nepal Bar Association (NBA) condemned the recent detentions of political leaders and human rights defenders.

In separate statements issued on Wednesday, the NGO Federation, Human Rights Alliance and the NBA, said that the government violated all international conventions by detaining human rights defenders for no reason.

They also condemned the government for not providing basic facilities to detainees.

The rights bodies also expressed serious concern over the search and constant vigilance on the house of Dr Arjun Karki, president of the NGO Federation.

The rights bodies accused the government of trying to arrest Karki for no reason. The mobile and telephone lines of Karki have been disconnected, the statements said. nepalnews.com pb Jan 26 06