Pokhara, 9 March| The high-level commission established to investigate the tragic events of September 8 and 9 (Bhadau 23 and 24) has recommended rigorous criminal prosecution against several high-ranking officials holding key positions during the unrest. According to sources close to the inquiry commission, the recommendations were made on the grounds that these individuals played a pivotal role in mobilizing excessive force without accurately assessing the ground reality. The list of officials recommended for criminal investigation includes the then Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chandra Kuber Khapung, former Chief District Officer (CDO) of Kathmandu Chhabi Rijal, SSP Dipshamsher Rana of the Valley Police Office Ranipokhari, and the then Chief of District Police Range Kathmandu, Bishwa Adhikari. The commission concluded that their failure to manage the situation resulted in unnecessary casualties and severe human rights violations.
While the commission’s report delves into the political dimensions of the crisis, analyzing the roles of then Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung, the specific nature of recommendations against the political leadership remains less clear. The source indicated that while their roles have been scrutinized, the primary focus for immediate criminal accountability has been directed toward the administrative and security leadership. If these recommendations are implemented, the commission’s report will serve as a primary First Information Report (FIR), allowing the police to initiate investigations on charges such as culpable homicide. This could lead to the arrest of the implicated officials and the eventual filing of court cases if sufficient evidence is gathered, marking a significant step toward ending institutional impunity in Nepal.
Prime Minister Sushila Karki, upon receiving the report, stated that the government would thoroughly study the findings before initiating the necessary legal proceedings. This move is seen as a crucial test for the current administration’s commitment to justice and accountability, especially concerning the victims of the September uprising. Victim families and human rights activists have long demanded that those who ordered the brutal suppression of peaceful protests be held accountable under the law. The Prime Minister’s assurance has provided a glimmer of hope that the legal system will finally act against those who misused their state power. As the government prepares to review the comprehensive report, the nation awaits a decisive step that could redefine the relationship between state security forces and the citizens they are sworn to protect.
