The action taken by the state against Ashika Tamang has raised serious questions about freedom of expression in our society. It is not a crime to raise one's voice against the problems and corruption of the people at the ground level, rather it is the right and duty of every citizen.

Yes, some process may not match when speaking. His style may make some feel uncomfortable. However, the correct way to resolve this should have been through legal dialogue and consultation, not handcuffing. Such a move raises doubts about the very character and intentions of the state.

Today, when the state abuses power and tries to suppress critical voices, it is not only an insult to democracy, but an attempt to intimidate society and silence conscious citizens. Suppressing our right to express our views openly under the Constitution cannot be accepted under any circumstances. If the government is truly a government of the people, it should show courage to listen to criticism and make improvements, not handcuff and imprison those who raise questions. If there is enough, instead of imprisoning such innocent people, the government should punish the corrupt people. The country belongs to the people. Power does not belong to a few people. Suppressing the voice of citizens is a sign of dictatorship.

– Santosh Simkhada , Tokyo, Japan