Ashika Tamang is a renowned Nepali social activist and actress. She has gained recognition in Nepal for leading bold campaigns against price hikes, illegal charges, and injustice in public services. Her fearless activism has made her a rising voice for accountability and social justice in Nepal.[1]
Ashika Tamang
| Born | |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Malekhu, Dhading, Nepal |
| Nationality | Nepali |
| Occupation | Social Activist, Actress |
| Known For | Social activism, women empowerment and rural development |
| Years Active | 2010s – present |
Early Life and Education
Ashika Tamang was born in Malekhu, Dhading District, Nepal, where she spent her childhood years. Growing up in a rural setting shaped her understanding of the daily struggles faced by ordinary Nepalis. [2]
Career and Personal Life
Ashika Tamang first became publicly known through her involvement in the Nepali film industry, where she both produced and acted in the movie Susree. Her brief engagement in cinema brought her initial recognition and provided her with experience in public life.[2]
Following this period, Tamang moved to Germany for work opportunities. During her time there, she married a German citizen and became the mother of two children. Despite residing abroad, she maintained regular ties with Nepal, often returning to participate in social work and community welfare activities. These efforts included raising awareness about public service issues and supporting grassroots initiatives.[2]
In 2024, Tamang relocated to Nepal permanently with her children. Since her return, she has focused her full attention on social activism, with particular emphasis on campaigns against price hikes, illegal charges, and irregularities in public services. Her transition from film to activism, and from living abroad back to Nepal, has been a defining aspect of her public life.
Social Activism
She has been active in addressing various public issues in Nepal, particularly those related to price hikes, irregular service charges, and misconduct in public services. She has spoken out against unfair practices such as overpricing of bottled water, food items, and transportation fares.
During the Gen-Z movement in 2025, she was also reported to have provided support to individuals injured in the protests. Tamang is noted for her outspoken style in public events, which has contributed to her visibility as a social activist.
Controversies and Legal Issues
In January 2025, she was arrested on charges of indecent behavior. She was initially released on bail but was later re-arrested in connection with the same case.[3]
The Bhaktapur District Court heard a case related to an incident at the Sanga bridge toll booth, in which Tamang was accused of publicly tearing a receipt book while protesting service charges. According to some news reports, the court sentenced her to five days in jail along with a fine. Other outlets, however, reported that she was acquitted of the charges.[4][5]
These incidents attracted both criticism and support. While some described her as a courageous activist, others criticized her style as confrontational and attention-seeking.
Political career
Ashika Tamang entered formal politics ahead of Nepal’s 2026 House of Representatives election. According to media reports, she is contesting the election from the Dhading-1 constituency as a direct candidate representing the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP).[2]
Prior to her electoral candidacy, Tamang was known for her involvement in social advocacy and public discourse. Her decision to run for office marked a transition from civic engagement to electoral politics. During the campaign period, she has stated that her political priorities include accountability, transparent governance, and increased participation of younger generations in the political process.[6]
The Dhading-1 constituency is considered electorally competitive, with candidates from multiple political parties contesting for representation. Tamang’s candidacy has been viewed by observers as part of a broader trend of new and independent-leaning political actors seeking parliamentary roles through emerging parties.[7]
See also
References
- जसलाई साना–ठूला सबैले भन्छन् 'आशिका दिदी' – Setopati (Nepali) ↑
- Dhading-1 Election: Can Ashika Tamang Break Through - Khoj Samachar ↑
- Bhaktapur court grants bail to Ashika Tamang – Kathmandu Post ↑
- Activist Ashika Tamang acquitted in Bhaktapur Court – Khabarhub ↑
- Police receive permission to keep Ashika Tamang in custody for 5 days – myRepublica ↑
- RSP fields Ashika Tamang as candidate from Dhading constituency-1 - Myrepublica ↑
- Dhading-1: Ashika Tamang to contest election from RSP - Onlinekhabar ↑