Fiscal Nepal
First Business News Portal in English from Nepal
KATHMANDU: The high-level investigation commission formed to probe the September 8 and 9 (Bhadra 23–24) incidents, in which security forces violently suppressed the Gen Z-led peaceful demonstrations, has barred outgoing Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chandrakuber Khapung from leaving Kathmandu Valley or traveling abroad.
The commission issued an official notice on Thursday, informing that Khapung, who retired from service earlier today, must remain available for questioning at any time regarding the police’s excessive use of force during the youth-led protests. The statement, signed by commission spokesperson Bijayraj Sharma, states:
“As IGP Chandrakuber Khapung has retired from service, and may be required to appear before the commission for inquiry and investigation related to the incidents of Bhadra 23 and 24, arrangements have been made to restrict his foreign travel and prevent him from leaving the Kathmandu Valley without the commission’s approval.”
The directive underscores the commission’s authority to ensure Khapung’s cooperation in the ongoing investigation. The decision comes amid growing criticism that the previous government used the Nepal Police to silence peaceful Gen Z demonstrators, many of whom were protesting against corruption, unemployment, and systemic political failures.
Human rights groups and civic organizations have condemned the violent dispersal of youth protests, describing it as a blatant misuse of state power under political pressure. Dozens of young protesters were reportedly injured as police used baton charges, water cannons, and arbitrary arrests to quell public dissent.
The commission has also requested individuals affected by the incidents to submit damage reports via email at [email protected] or directly to the commission’s office at Singha Durbar. It further stated that details regarding the investigation’s progress and press releases would be made available through the Ministry of Home Affairs’ official website.
Observers note that restricting the outgoing IGP’s movement marks a rare instance of accountability within Nepal’s security apparatus, often accused of acting under political influence. The inquiry’s findings are expected to shed light on whether police leadership was directly complicit in the crackdown or acted under the orders of the then government.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
