Protest Against Chinese Encroachment in the Name of BRI at Pokhara International Airport
Today, a significant protest was held at the gate of Pokhara International Airport against Chinese encroachment under the guise of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The event, attended by over 250 people, was led by Mr. Vinay Yadav, president of the Rastriya Ekata Abhiyan. Mr. Rajendra Kumar Lingden, chair of the Parliamentary subcommittee, also joined the protest to listen to the demands of the campaigners.
The sit-in program, centered around Pokhara International Airport, was coordinated by Tika Kumari Chhiring, the district vice-president of the campaign. The protestors chanted slogans such as, "Fully operate Pokhara International Airport, investigate corruption at the airport, convert BRI loans into grants," demanding transparency and action.
Mr. Yadav addressed Mr. Lingden, stating, "Like the Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka and the Gwadar Port in Pakistan, China wants to capture the Pokhara Airport, which is significant in terms of geopolitics. Nepal cannot repay the high-interest loan to China. We need to investigate impartiality, conspiracy, and corruption during the construction of the airport. High-interest loans should be converted into grants, and the airport must function as intended."
In response to Yadav's demands, Mr. Lingden expressed solidarity with the people of Pokhara, assuring them of his full efforts to investigate the matter. He attended the sit-in program and listened to the demands and suggestions of the campaigners.
The protest included slogans such as "Free Pokhara International Airport from Chinese debt trap," "Protect national sovereignty," "Cancel the BRI agreement," "Fully operate Pokhara International Airport," and "Investigate corruption at the airport." Mr. Yadav handed over a memorandum to Mr. Lingden, emphasizing the urgent need for action to address the issues surrounding the airport's construction and operation.
