KATHMANDU, June 22: Balendra Shah aka Balen, the mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), has reiterated his refusal to comply with a court order. Balen has made the ‘bold statement’ in response to the order of the Patan High Court on Wednesday that allowed the screening of Hindi cinemas in Kathmandu.

Following the court's decision, Mayor Shah took to social media to express his position, stating that he would not adhere to any law or court ruling when matters concerning the sovereignty and independence of the country are at stake.

In his post, he wrote, "I firmly stand against obeying any law or court if they are against the sovereignty and independence of our nation."

Mayor Shah also criticized both the court and the government, accusing them of being subservient to India. He asserted his willingness to face any consequences while simultaneously taking a firm stance against allowing Indian films to be screened in the metropolis' cinemas.

He further stated, "The filmmakers' claim that Nepal was under Indian rule exposes their true intentions. It is evident that the court and the government are under the influence of India when the Nepali government dismisses this issue as a mere stunt, and the court permits the screening of such films. I am prepared to face any punishment, but I will not permit the screening of this film."

Earlier on Wednesday, the Patan High Court issued an interim order in response to a petition filed by cinema hall operators challenging the Kathmandu Metropolis' decision to prohibit the screening of Hindi films.

 
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