Rights Commission Set to Release Tinkune Riots Investigation Report Next Week

Kathmandu, May 25 — The National Human Rights Commission has concluded its investigation into the violent anti-protests supporting monarchy that occurred on March 28, resulting in two fatalities and numerous injuries.

Following objections from pro-monarchy factions and their supporters regarding the commission’s neutrality, the constitutional entity aimed to establish a senior committee headed by retired jurists. Nevertheless, this initiative failed when the previous judges they contacted declined to chair an inquiry into what was considered a politically sensitive event.

Following this, the commission carried out an inquiry with assistance from specialists skilled in forensics and additional forms of evidence gathering. Approximately two months later, after thorough examination, the investigative division of the human rights organization presented their findings to the leadership for review and approval.

Surya Dhungel, who is part of the commission, verified that they have received the report. “After reviewing the study, we will make the required decision,” stated Dhungel.

A reviewer of the report stated that the document highlights shortcomings on the part of both the demonstrators and the authorities during the event. The official commented, “Although the protestors were active, more damage could have been prevented if the government had responded promptly.”

Issuing a statement on the day of the incident, the commission had said the protesters had broken through the police barricade at Tinkune and tried to enter the restricted area around New Baneshwar. “A clash between protesters and security forces ensued, with protesters hurling brickbats at the police and private houses,” the statement read.

The demonstrators set fire to cars and both personal and public property, and they ransacked stores and grocery outlets. Additionally, they assaulted the teams from the commission who were sent out to oversee the human rights conditions. A worker for the commission sustained injuries, and the protesters mistreated Commissioner Lily Thapa.

The commission’s statement faced criticism for being “one-sided.” In response, officials assert that they conducted a comprehensive and unbiased investigation providing an accurate depiction of events from that day along with identifying the issues at hand. Since the commission members are presently occupied with arrangements for their upcoming anniversary event planned for Tuesday, an official noted that the report will probably be released publicly early next week.

Up to 20 individuals were injured by bullets during the unrest, with one person succumbing to their wounds while receiving medical care on the same day. Suresh Rajak, a television reporter, lost his life when demonstrators torched the building where he was recording footage in Tinkune.

According to the Nepal Police, they discharged 58 bullets, 746 tear gas canisters, 2 shots from a pistol, and 198 blanks in their efforts to manage the escalating violence.

Although the authorities and law enforcement assert that shooting was essential for managing the circumstances, opponents contend that the disproportionate application of force provoked the demonstrators and call for the establishment of an impartial governmental investigation team. Nonetheless, the administration has refrained from setting up any inquiry board.

In their submission to the Kathmandu District Government Attorney’s Office, the police proposed charges against 108 people. As part of the investigation process, authorities temporarily held 90 individuals. Out of these, 61 were probed for crimes and organized criminal activities, with another 29 suspected of sedition. Among those charged, 34 faced criminal offense allegations and three were accused of sedition; all of these have been allowed conditional release pending further inquiry.

The Joint People’s Movement Committee, responsible for organizing the Tinkune demonstrations, has declared plans for additional protests starting this Thursday, calling for the reinstatement of the monarchy. This group is spearheaded by Nabaraj Subedi, a prominent figure from the Panchayat era. Led by Subedi, who collaborates with key figures such as Rajendra Lingden, chairman of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, and Kamal Thapa, head of RPP-Nepal, they have engaged with commission authorities to request impartial oversight of their planned peaceful demonstration.