Aryal launches protest deaths inquiry, election security plan — Day 3
Aryal launches protest deaths inquiry, drafts election security plan
BCANP News Desk —
—
Kathmandu, Nepal
On the third day of the interim cabinet, Home and Law Minister Om Prakash Aryal moved to open an inquiry into the 72 protester deaths from earlier this month and began drafting an election security plan in coordination with the Election Commission. His ministry also managed national mourning ceremonies and the compensation framework announced yesterday.
Timeline (Sept 17, 2025)
- Inquiry launched: Aryal’s office confirmed initial steps for an independent mechanism to examine excessive force during protests.
- Election security: Preparations for a March 5, 2026 vote began, with law enforcement instructed to prepare rights-based crowd-control guidelines.
- National mourning: His ministry coordinated flag-lowering, office closures, and ceremonies honoring the dead.
- Compensation oversight: District administrations, under Home Ministry guidance, began processing relief for bereaved families.
Decisions & Quotes
- On justice: Aryal pledged “credible investigation into the use of lethal force” and said victims would be honored as martyrs.
- On elections: He reaffirmed that security agencies “must protect rights, not restrict them” during rallies ahead of polls.
Why it matters
Aryal’s moves signal the interim government’s effort to balance accountability for past abuses with preparation for credible elections. His dual role over Home and Law places him at the center of both justice and security reform.
Background
Aryal, a rights lawyer, was sworn in on Sept 15. On Day 2 he pledged timely elections and an inquiry into protest deaths. Day 3 marked the first operational follow-through.
What’s next
- Formation of the independent inquiry commission.
- Publication of new policing guidelines for election season.
- Monitoring speed and transparency of compensation delivery.
