NEPAL: Nepal’s interim government, led by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, has established a three-member panel to investigate the violence that erupted during anti-corruption protests earlier this month. The protests, initially sparked by a youth-driven movement against corruption and unemployment, escalated into the deadliest violence Nepal has seen in decades, resulting in the deaths of 74 people and over 2,100 injuries.
The protests led by Generation Z turned chaotic, with demonstrators setting fire to key government buildings, including the office complex housing the prime minister’s office, the Supreme Court, and parliament. Luxury malls and hotels, allegedly owned by individuals close to corrupt politicians, were also targets of the protests.
A panel headed by retired judge Gauri Bahadur Karki has been tasked with investigating the loss of life and property, as well as the actions of both protesters and the authorities. The panel is expected to complete its probe within three months, according to Finance Minister Rameshwore Khanal.
Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has also called for an investigation into the violence, denying that his government ordered the police to fire on protesters. He claimed that the protests were infiltrated by outsiders and that the police were not equipped with the weapons used to shoot at the crowd.
Judge Karki, known for his honesty and integrity, previously chaired Nepal’s special court that deals with corruption cases. His appointment to lead the investigation is seen as a step towards a fair and transparent inquiry.
