Nepal Forms High-Level Panel to Investigate Deadly Anti-Corruption Protests

Kathmandu — Nepal’s interim government, led by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, has established a three-member investigative panel to probe the violent anti-corruption protests that rocked the country this month, resulting in 74 deaths and over 2,100 injuries. The unrest also led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli amid mounting public pressure.

The protests, initially launched by Gen Z activists demanding action against corruption and growing unemployment, quickly escalated into the deadliest political violence Nepal has witnessed in decades. Demonstrators torched key government buildings, including the complex housing the Prime Minister’s Office, Parliament, and the Supreme Court, along with malls, luxury hotels, and showrooms allegedly owned by associates of corrupt politicians.

Interim Finance Minister Rameshwore Khanal confirmed on Monday that the panel will be chaired by retired judge Gauri Bahadur Karki, a former head of Nepal’s Special Court known for his tough stance on corruption. The panel has been granted a three-month mandate to submit its findings.

“It will investigate the loss of life and property, alleged excesses by both sides, and individuals responsible for arson and vandalism during the movement,” Khanal said in a statement to the media.

The government’s decision to launch an independent probe is seen as a key step in restoring public trust and calming nationwide unrest.

In a separate statement on social media, former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli welcomed the investigation but denied that his administration had ordered police to fire on protesters. He claimed that the protests were infiltrated by external groups and that security forces were not equipped with the types of weapons used during the shootings.

The interim administration, led by Karki — Nepal’s first female Chief Justice — has pledged a transparent investigation and accountability for all responsible. Analysts say the outcome of the inquiry could significantly influence Nepal’s political future and help determine whether the transitional government can stabilize the nation.

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The panel’s formation comes amid growing calls for justice, including from international human rights organizations, who have urged Nepal to uphold democratic rights while addressing corruption and youth unemployment — key drivers of the current unrest.