Nepal Forms Panel to Probe Deadly Anti-Corruption Protest Violence

Kathmandu — Nepal's interim government, under the leadership of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, has announced the formation of a three-member commission to investigate the violence that erupted during anti-corruption protests earlier this month, which claimed 74 lives and led to Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli's resignation.

The protests, initiated primarily by Generation Z activists demanding action against systemic corruption and unemployment, escalated into the deadliest unrest Nepal has witnessed in decades. More than 2,100 individuals sustained injuries amid clashes that saw demonstrators setting ablaze key government buildings—including the complex housing the prime minister’s office, Supreme Court, and parliament—as well as commercial properties linked to associates of allegedly corrupt politicians.

Rameshwore Khanal, appointed as finance minister by Prime Minister Karki, confirmed that the investigation panel, headed by retired judge Gauri Bahadur Karki, has been allotted a three-month deadline to examine the incidents. Khanal stated, "The committee will investigate the loss of life and damage to property, identify excesses committed by both protesters and authorities, as well as individuals involved in acts of arson and vandalism during the protests."

Former Prime Minister Oli also called for a thorough inquiry, asserting via social media that his government never authorized police to use lethal force against protesters. He added that the unrest was infiltrated by external agitators and denied that police possessed firearms capable of causing the type of injuries reported.

Recognized for her integrity and prior role as chairman of a special court tackling corruption cases, Sushila Karki’s leadership in the interim government reinforces efforts to restore public trust and accountability amid Nepal’s political turmoil.