Ashok Yadav Arrest Sparks Torch Rally in Sarlahi

MALANGWA, Sarlahi — A torch rally was held in Malangwa, Sarlahi, on Tuesday evening to protest the arrest of CPN leader Ashok Yadav. CPN leaders and supporters started the demonstration from the District Development Committee’s Tribigha field and marched toward Municipality Chowk, demanding Yadav’s immediate release.

The rally reached Balmandir Chowk, where police stopped the protesters from moving forward and dispersed the demonstration. Six people who took part in the protest were detained by police. During the demonstration, protesters also raised slogans against the police.

Protesters Accuse Authorities of Political Revenge

The protesters described Ashok Yadav’s arrest as an act of political revenge and demanded that he be released immediately. They raised slogans including “Release Ashok Yadav,” “Withdraw the false cases,” “Form an investigation committee” and “Stop political revenge.”

The protest comes as Yadav faces investigation in several cases registered in Sarlahi. His supporters have questioned the action against him and called for an independent investigation into the allegations.

Police Say Yadav Was Arrested in Lalitpur

According to the District Police Office, Sarlahi, Ashok Yadav was arrested from Dhapakhel in Lalitpur last Tuesday and brought to Sarlahi. Police have identified him as a fugitive accused in cases related to assault, causing injury and criminal disturbance.

Sarlahi Police Chief SP Rabindranath Paudel said the Sarlahi District Court initially granted police five days to investigate the case. The court later extended the investigation period by another six days.

Police say investigations are underway against Yadav in connection with 11 alleged offences. These include offences against the state, theft, public offences, attempted murder, offences against public peace, criminal trespass and criminal disturbance.

Yadav Had Previously Drawn Police Attention

Ashok Yadav had also attracted public attention last year following a dispute with then-Sarlahi police chief SP Yogendra Kumar Khadka. The incident brought Yadav into the spotlight and added to the political and legal controversy surrounding him.

The latest torch rally shows that his arrest has become a political issue in Sarlahi, with supporters demanding his release while police continue their investigation into the allegations against him. The allegations against Yadav remain subject to the legal process, and an accusation does not by itself establish guilt.