NHRC Holds Oli, Top Officials Accountable for Deadly Protest Crackdown

Nepal’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has held former prime minister KP Sharma Oli, senior government officials, and protest organizers accountable for the deadly crackdown during the September 8–9 unrest.
The commission concluded that the government’s failure to anticipate the scale of the youth-led protests significantly contributed to the loss of lives and widespread destruction. At least 77 people were killed during the two-day violence, including 19 who died in police firing on the first day.
The investigation, led by commission member Lily Thapa, found that the protest was initially peaceful but turned violent following the excessive use of force by security personnel. The violence escalated further on the second day, with incidents of arson, looting, and destruction of both public and private property.
The report recommends legal action against several key officials, including then home minister Ramesh Lekhak, former police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung, and Kathmandu’s then chief district officer Chhabi Rijal. It also suggests an investigation into incumbent police chief Dan Bahadur Karki.
The NHRC further criticized key institutions such as the National Security Council and the Central Security Committee for failing to fulfill their responsibilities during the crisis.
As part of its six-month probe, the commission recorded statements from 90 individuals, including senior political leaders like Balendra Shah and Rabi Lamichhane, and reviewed forensic evidence, ballistic reports, and around 400 video clips.
The findings highlight that while the second day’s violence could not be justified, it was largely triggered by the events and actions of the first day.
The report has been submitted to NHRC chairperson Top Bahadur Magar and is expected to be made public soon, amid growing public pressure for accountability and justice.