Alliance for Democracy and Human Rights in Nepal, USA Proudly Announces ?Bichaar Bimarsha? A periodic socio-political discussions on Nepal ______________________________________________________________________ Co-Sponsors: Human Rights Working Group, SIPA, Columbia University South Asian Institute, SIPA, Columbia University STRUGGLE FOR DEMOCRACY IN NEPAL: ROLES OF, AND CHALLENGES FOR, YOUTHS Interaction with Gagan Thapa Gagan Thapa is a former General Secretary of Nepal Student Union, student wing of Nepali Congress -- the largest political party in Nepal. He is undoubtedly the most prominent student leader who has become one of the leading figures in the current struggle for democracy in Nepal. He was jailed numerous times after the February 1, 2005 royal takeover on charges of ?sedition against the state? for his outspoken stance against King Gyanendra?s regime. Amnesty International had declared him a ?prisoner of conscience,? since he had been detained despite his peaceful and legitimate activities in support of democracy and human rights in Nepal. His release was procured on each occasion only under tremendous pressure from various human rights organizations and international governments. *Mr. Thapa?s presentation will be in Nepali. Written English transcripts of his major points will be available for non-Nepali audience. ** Q & A session will be held in English, with a translation help from the moderator if needed. Venue: Columbia University, W. 116th Street and Broadway. (Exact room location will be announced later.) Subway: # 1 or # 9 to 116th Street Station. Time: 5:00 pm Date: Saturday, October 22nd, 2005. Admission: Free Questions? Call Anil: 917-670-1057 or, Sanjaya: 917-902-2667