Nepal’s Judicial Inquiry Commission to Quiz KP Oli Over Gen-Z Protest Atrocities

A judicial commission in Nepal is set to question former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The inquiry focuses on the violent Gen-Z protest atrocities that occurred on September 8 and 9. This high-level probe aims to uncover the facts behind the deadly state response.

The commission was formed by interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki on September 21. It has a three-month mandate to investigate the incidents that ultimately unseated the Oli government. According to ANI, the panel is now moving to question the most senior officials involved.

Senior Officials Face Scrutiny in Probe

The commission plans to summon Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak within the next week. It will also question the country’s Chief Secretary, Ek Narayan Aryal, who has already provided his statement. Aryal was present at crucial National Security Council meetings during the unrest.

Other key figures facing questioning include former police chiefs and security commanders. The panel seeks details from Senior Superintendent of Police Bishwo Adhikari and Deputy Inspector General Om Rana. Their testimony is critical to understanding the chain of command during the protests.

Commission Races Against Deadline

The investigative body has less than a month remaining in its tenure. It has already reviewed evidence from officials, security personnel, and witnesses. The commission has also collected about 300 complaints of personal losses from citizens.

A significant challenge has been obtaining full cooperation from security bodies. Police initially delayed handing over required information, finally providing it on November 9. The Nepal Army has also failed to respond to requests for details about its role on September 9.

The commission operates under the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1969. It has the full power to summon individuals and recommend action for non-cooperation. Its final report will identify the causes of the violence and recommend actions against those responsible.

The findings from this probe are poised to shape Nepal’s political landscape for years to come, setting a critical precedent for accountability. The nation watches closely as its former leaders are called to answer for the Gen-Z protest atrocities.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the judicial commission investigating?

The commission is investigating the violent incidents on September 8 and 9. It is tasked with finding the causes behind the violence, vandalism, and state response. The goal is to identify responsibility and recommend action.

Who else is being questioned by the panel?

Besides KP Oli, the commission will question former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and senior police commanders. It has already recorded statements from Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal and Rastriya Swatantra Party chair Rabi Lamichhane.

How many people were killed in the protests?

At least 72 people were killed during the two-day Gen-Z movement. The deaths occurred as the government attempted to suppress the widespread anti-corruption protests.

What power does this inquiry commission hold?

The panel can summon individuals and demand evidence from any public office. It can also recommend legal action for any person or agency that fails to cooperate with its investigation.

What was the political outcome of the protests?

The protests led to the resignation of PM KP Oli. The House of Representatives was later dissolved, and fresh elections were announced for March 2026.

Trusted Sources

Asian News International (ANI)