Key Points

Nepal's inquiry commission has taken significant steps to investigate the recent GenZ protests by restricting the travel of former high-ranking officials. The move comes after deadly protests resulted in multiple casualties and extensive property damage across the country. The commission, led by former Special Court Chairperson Gauri Bahadur Karki, is tasked with investigating the incidents and determining accountability. These actions represent a critical moment in Nepal's ongoing political transformation and response to youth-led demonstrations.

Key Points: Nepal Bars K.P. Oli Amid GenZ Protest Inquiry Probe

  • Commission bars ex-PM Oli and officials from leaving country
  • 19 people killed on first day of GenZ protests
  • Inquiry aims to investigate human and material losses
  • Government and private sectors suffered massive economic damage
2 min read

Nepal's inquiry commission bars former PM K.P. Oli from leaving the country

Nepal's inquiry commission restricts travel for ex-PM K.P. Oli and key officials following deadly GenZ protests investigation

"These individuals are under investigation and could be summoned for interrogation at any time - Inquiry Commission Statement"

Kathmandu, Sep 28

An inquiry commission formed to investigate the physical and human losses during the recent GenZ protests has barred former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak from leaving the country.

In a press statement on Sunday, the commission said it had instructed the concerned government agencies to restrict the foreign travel of Oli and Lekhak, along with former Home Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi, former Chief of the National Investigation Department Hutaraj Thapa, and former Kathmandu Chief District Officer Chhabi Rijal.

The commission said that the decision was taken because these individuals are under investigation and could be summoned for interrogation at any time during the inquiry process.

It has also directed government agencies to prevent them from leaving the Kathmandu Valley without permission.

On the first day of the GenZ protests on September 8 and 9, at least 19 people were killed nationwide in police firing.

More than 70 others died in the following days, as some of the injured succumbed to their wounds while others were killed in arson attacks.

GenZ protesters have demanded that those responsible for the killings be held accountable.

The inquiry commission, formed last week under former Special Court Chairperson Gauri Bahadur Karki, has been tasked with investigating the human and material losses, determining the causes of the incidents, and submitting a report with conclusive findings and recommendations.

The commission has also been instructed to present a clear action plan for implementing its recommendations.

Since the GenZ protests, Nepal has undergone political change, with former Chief Justice Sushila Karki now leading the interim government, whose main mandate is to hold elections for the House of Representatives on March 5 next year.

The formation of the inquiry commission was part of the understanding reached between the government and GenZ protest leaders.

During the protests, in addition to human casualties, government and private properties suffered heavy damage, resulting in massive losses.

Protesters vandalised businesses and other establishments on the second day of protests, which were held on September 9.

According to the government, vandalism and arson attacks caused damages worth more than NPR 100 billion to public infrastructure, with as many as 380 federal government buildings damaged, according to a preliminary study by the Ministry of Urban Development.

Likewise, the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the apex body of Nepal's private sector, estimated that private sector properties sustained damages worth more than NPR 80 billion.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
This is concerning for India-Nepal relations. Oli has been a key figure in bilateral talks. Hope this doesn't affect the upcoming elections and stability in our neighboring country.
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Arjun K
While accountability is important, I'm worried about the economic impact. 180 billion NPR in damages is huge for Nepal's economy. The youth protests went too far with the vandalism. Both sides need to be responsible.
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Sarah B
As someone who has visited Nepal multiple times, this is heartbreaking. The country was making such good progress. Hope the inquiry commission delivers justice without political bias. The interim government has a tough task ahead.
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Vikram M
The travel ban on former PM Oli shows how quickly political fortunes can change in South Asia. Reminds me of our own political dramas. Hope Nepal finds stability soon - we need peaceful neighbors.
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Michael C
Respectfully, I think the commission should also investigate the protest leaders who encouraged violence. Destroying public property worth billions isn't the way to demand justice. There are peaceful methods available.
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Ananya R
So many young lives lost 😔 This is why we need stronger democratic institutions in South Asia. The youth are our future and their voices must be heard, not silenced with bullets. #JusticeForNepalGenZ

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