Kathmandu, April 2 — The State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the Parliament has asked for Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak to appear before them to address the recent pro-monarch demonstrations in Kathmandu. He is scheduled to attend the committee session at 11 AM on Friday.
Ramhari Khatiwada, who leads the committee, stated that they decided to ask the home minister for clarifications about the unrest that occurred on March 28. During this incident, demonstrators were involved in acts of vandalism, arson, and theft across locations such as Tinkune, Koteshwor, and Jadibuti.
Additionally, video journalist Suresh Rajak and Sabin Maharjan, who was a resident of Kirtipur, tragically lost their lives amidst the protests.
At Wednesday’s committee gathering, multiple legislators argued that Lekhak should be called upon to provide explanations. Congressman Hridayaram Thani specifically requested that the minister address the causes of the unrest.
“Why did this incident happen? The committee ought to call upon the home minister for answers. While it would be best if the prime minister were interrogated as well, at minimum the home minister needs to appear before them,” Thani stated.
Lawmaker Sarita Prasai supported Thani’s view, asserting that the event necessitated a comprehensive inquiry due to several emerging concerns. Similarly, Congress General Secretary and legislator Bishwa Prakash Sharma highlighted the importance of uncovering the truth regarding the Tinkune incident.
Lawmaker Rajendra Rai from CPN-UML backed the call for a response from the home minister regarding the issue. Conversely, Buddhiman Tamang from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) contested accusations implicating his party in the unrest. Tamang also called for the establishment of a judicial committee to look into the situation thoroughly.
