Feb 24, Kathmandu - The producers, directors, and hosts of the upcoming comedy show ‘Comedy Night with Champions,’ led by Bishal Bhandari, have issued a statement suggesting that the program has come under cyber attack following criticism from a group advocating for the prohibition of old political parties. The controversy arose after the trailer for the 47th episode, set to air next Wednesday, was released.

The trailer features Kathmandu Metro Secretary Mahesh Basnet as a guest, and the episode includes caricatures of Prime Minister Sushila Karki and youth activist Sadan Gurung. Bhandari has faced significant stress and backlash over Basnet’s inclusion, with some groups boycotting the program, alleging it is influenced by the UML.

Bhandari has been accused of having close ties with the UML, especially after visiting party leader K.P. Oli’s residence months ago, which led to speculation about his political affiliations. Despite this, he has clarified via social media that he has previously hosted leaders from other parties, including the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), and the Nepali Congress.

He questioned the logic of excluding certain individuals based on political lines, asking whether society should be built on such divisions. Bhandari also emphasized that the ‘Comedy Night with Champions’ team supports change and opposes discrimination.

He further pointed out that similar criticism and boycott calls have been made in the past when different political figures were invited, and he expressed concern over the increasing cyber attacks from the ‘Gen-Z’ group. Bhandari warned that if such threats and intimidation continue, legal action might be necessary.

In his statement, Bhandari highlighted that the program has previously hosted leaders from various parties, including those close to the RSP, RPP, and the Nepali Congress, questioning the rationale behind targeting this specific episode. He also questioned whether society should only uplift the old parties while elevating new ones to divine status, emphasizing the program’s stance in favor of change and diversity.