Nepal’s recently appointed prime minister has initiated a formal judicial inquiry to delve into the tragic deaths of over 70 individuals. These fatalities occurred during a student uprising that gripped the nation approximately two weeks prior, as armed forces moved to quell the unrest.
This newly formed three-member commission, led by a distinguished retired judge, is tasked with a comprehensive investigation. Beyond the killings, it will examine the widespread acts of arson and looting that resulted in billions of dollars in damage to both public and private assets during the two-day protest period earlier this month. The commission aims to deliver its findings within a three-month timeframe.
The establishment of this commission marks a pivotal first action by interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who assumed office ten days ago. Her primary objective is to meticulously reconstruct the events of September 8, determining how initially peaceful student-led anti-corruption demonstrations escalated into fierce violence by the afternoon, leading to security forces opening fire on protestors. The ensuing day saw protestors retaliating by setting ablaze numerous prominent government buildings across Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, alongside the residences of political figures.
Ms. Karki, a former chief justice, took on the interim prime minister role following the resignation of her predecessor, K.P. Sharma Oli, amidst the escalating protests. The country is now preparing for national elections scheduled for March.
Over the two-day period of unrest, a total of 74 lives were lost. This grim tally includes 61 protesters and innocent bystanders, three dedicated police officers, and 10 prison inmates. According to Nepali police officials, a dozen of the deceased were so severely burned that their identities remain unknown, necessitating DNA testing of human remains recovered from charred supermarkets and homes.
Tragically, among the casualties were five juvenile inmates in western Nepal. They were killed on September 9 when army officers opened fire as they attempted to escape from three separate correctional facilities in the region.
Gauri Bahadur Karki, the esteemed retired judge at the helm of the commission, stated he would commence his duties immediately after his oath of office. He will be joined by a retired senior police official and a legal expert on the commission.
Judge Karki affirmed his commitment to “thoroughly investigate the specified matters and propose appropriate actions against those found responsible for the loss of life and property damage.”