MP Ganesh Karki of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) has expressed concern regarding the shutdown of the play ‘Lucifer Rising.’ Karki emphasized that “uninterrupted artistic expression and independent journalism are integral components of democracy” and has urged efforts to establish contact with the play’s director. He further requested that anyone issuing threats come forward with information to assist in the investigation.
On May 24, in Kathmandu, Ganesh Karki, serving as the chairperson of the Federal Parliament’s State Directorate Committee responsible for overseeing the implementation of policies and principles, highlighted the significance of uninterrupted artistic expression and independent journalism as vital democratic elements.
He shared on social media, “I am concerned about the closure of the ‘Lucifer Rising’ play due to alleged political reasons and security concerns. Upon inquiry with the government and the party, there is no indication that the play should be banned. However, efforts to identify who issued threats have been hampered by the inability to reach the play’s director. I am gathering more information.”
Karki added, “Unhindered artistic expression and independent journalism are essential pillars of democracy.” He noted, “The recent changes to the censor board prove that the government is not considering imposing limits. Current policies do not allow directives such as ‘cut this scene’ or ‘rewrite that part’ in films; instead, decisions focus on whether the content is appropriate for viewers.”
He appealed for contact with the play’s director and encouraged anyone who has issued threats to disclose that information publicly and assist with the investigation.
