Intl community expresses concern over detention of Tibetan refugees
The international community has expressed strong concerns over the
repeated arrests and detention of the Tibetan refugees who have been
demonstrating in Kathmandu for the last few months.
In a joint statement issued by diplomatic missions in Nepal of Australia,
Canada, Denmark, Germany, Norway, the United Kingdom, the United States
and France, on behalf of the EU, acting as its local President, said, "We
would like to express our strong concern regarding the government of
Nepal's recent detention without charge of three members of the Tibetan
community in Nepal: Kalsang Chung, Ngawang Sangmo, and Tashi Dolma.
"We note that none of the three participated in violent actions and that
Kalsang Chung is not known to have participated in any protests at all,"
they said calling for their immediate release.
They further said they wee very concerned about the ongoing harsh
treatment of peaceful protesters during arrest by the Nepali police.
"We understand and respect Nepal's national security concerns and,
certainly, the importance of protecting diplomatic premises. We urge you,
however, to ensure the humane treatment of peaceful protesters," the
statement reads.
The use of preventive detention under the Public Security Act (PSA) also
raises concern in relation to Nepal's obligations under the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) not to engage in arbitrary
detention.
They have urged Nepal to adhere to international human rights standards as
Nepal continues on its path as a democratic nation. nepalnews.com ia June 27 08
Related News
- Chinese embassy refutes Tibetan group's statement
