Kathmandu, September 28
Former politician and writer Modanath Prashrit has said he has decided to reject Padmashree Sadhana Samman to be offered by Khemlal Harikala Lamichhane Academy.
In a statement on Monday, the former minister said he would reject the prize as some people and groups tried his character assassination raising an unverified claim.
Around five years ago, writer and activist Sharada Bhusal Jha had accused Prashrit of sexual violence. After the announcement of the prize winner yesterday, the allegation came into limelight again sparking a controversy.
The foundation led by NRN leader Jiba Lamichhane had decided to award Prashrit with the award and novelist Sanjeev Uprety with Padmashree Sahitya Puraskar.
Uprety also said he would not accept the prize being on the same stage with Prashrit.
