Home Minister Lekhak labels Tinkune incident as criminal & destructive

KATHMANDU: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has described the March 28 (Chaitra 15) incident in Kathmandu’s Tinkune area as a “criminal and destructive act.”

Speaking at a meeting of the Parliamentary Law, Justice, and Human Rights Committee on Friday, Minister Lekhak said the government is taking the matter seriously and is committed to preventing such events in the future.

He emphasized that the government views the incident as a serious criminal offense and will carry out an impartial investigation through the regular criminal justice system, without any bias or prejudice.

Lawmakers had demanded the formation of an independent investigation commission to uncover the truth behind the incident. In response, Minister Lekhak assured that the ongoing investigation under the existing legal framework will be fair and thorough.

He confirmed that action is ongoing to arrest those involved in looting, arson, and anarchic activities during the protest. Durga Prasai, who led the demonstration, has already been arrested, the minister informed the committee.

Minister Lekhak reiterated that no one involved in the incident will be spared and that accountability will be determined based on each individual’s role.

“In a democratic system, seeking authoritarianism by setting fires and creating chaos is not acceptable in any way,” he said. He urged political actors to present their views to the public and participate in democratic elections, noting, “We go to the people every five years. We are elected by the people. If the people send us back, we return. If not, we don’t.”

He also informed the committee that the government has initiated the process of providing Rs. 1 million in relief to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident. Injured individuals will receive free medical treatment from the government.

During the meeting, several lawmakers argued that former King Gyanendra Shah should be held accountable for the incident.