HUROB irked by inept responses on Katwal’s strike

Damak, March 9, 2009: Human Rights Organization of Bhutan has expressed serious concern over the inept responses from the government to address the demands raised by N. L. Katwal who has been in hunger strike in Chemgang central jail, Thimphu.

HUROB would like to request all concerns, especially the ICRC, which only has the access to prisons in Chemgang, Thimphu and Lodrai Jail in Sarbhang to take up the matter with the Government of Bhutan, that Katwal is properly treated and the Bhutan government takes seriously his appeal. 

HUROB further called on the international community especially the core countries resettling the exiled Bhutanese, governments India and the Nepal take appropriate step to resolve the Bhutanese refugee problem amicably with full justice to the refugees and help repatriation as demanded by Katwal.

The government had deployed doctors who forcefully administered glucose to Katwal last week against his will. Government, UN agencies in Thimphu, human rights groups and Bhutanese media operating within the country have all remained mum over the issue. 

Arrested on April 2000, the high court sentenced him 13 years jail term on charges of demonstrating against the government and disturbing peace and harmony in the country.