The Generation Z Movement in Nepal: Human Rights Commission to Recommend Government Action; Challenges Ahead for Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’
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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is preparing to recommend government action next week amid questions arising over the implementation of the Generation Z movement investigation report.
According to committee coordinator and commission member Lily Thapa, the NHRC will recommend action by the government based on the report on Wednesday, April 16.
“The Commission will also hold a press conference the same day to release a summary of the report,” said Thapa.
The recommended actions include measures against individuals involved in police suppression on September 8 and those engaged in the destructive events of September 9, she added.
When asked whether political and administrative leaders might also face action recommendations, Thapa responded, “Recommendations have been made for both days’ events, and the report identifies who is responsible.”
Earlier, the report prepared under former Special Court Chairperson Gauribahadur Karki faced criticism for insufficient investigation into those involved in the September 9 events.
A team led by Thapa was formed by the NHRC to investigate human rights violations related to the September 9 incident.
This investigative committee submitted its report to NHRC Chair Tap Bahadur Magar on March 20. After reviewing the document, the commission decided to recommend government action, according to member Thapa.
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Questions Surrounding Roles of Oli, Balen, and the Army Chief
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The Karki Commission had publicly recommended criminal proceedings against former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and senior officials of security agencies.
However, officials from the NHRC have declined to formally disclose the exact nature of the recommended actions and the individuals involved from the committee led by Thapa.
One official revealed that the National Security Council also holds the former prime minister and the Nepal Army Chief responsible.
“When the District Security Committee loses control of the situation, the Valley’s Central Security Committee and the National Security Council become active,” explained the official. “If the situation escalates beyond control in the area, further measures are taken, making the National Security Council accountable as well.”
Officials confirmed that the commission has also examined the roles of current Prime Minister and then Kathmandu Metropolitan Mayor Balendra Shah ‘Balen’.
When asked if recommended actions have also been suggested for Balen, one official partially affirmed this, stating, “His name appears in connection with the events on September 9 as well as earlier incidents, including discussions related to Discord, which are also included in the investigation’s conclusions.”
Investigation into Ravi Lamichhane and Rasuwap Leaders
The report also raised questions about the role of National Independent Party (Rasuwap) President Ravi Lamichhane and other party leaders, who were in jail at the time.
Lamichhane was incarcerated on the first day of the movement, and the commission also investigated activities of leaders who came to welcome his release on September 9.
An official from the commission stated, “His release sparked enthusiasm across prisons nationwide, with the sentiment ‘Ravi is out, so why aren’t we?’ spreading everywhere.”
Similarly, the commission considered a statement issued on September 8 by Rasuwap General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti urging all youth participants to promote unity by refraining from using party slogans and symbols.
From jail, Lamichhane addressed Generation Z youth showing cooperation, and through his private secretariat, he conveyed, “Tomorrow marks the start of a new history; stay vigilant. There could possibly be attempts at infiltration—use discretion.”
According to officials, disciplinary recommendations have been proposed against leaders ranging from Balendra Shah to Ravi Lamichhane based on human rights violations. However, one official hinted that the commission may not fully endorse the report.
“It is uncertain how the commission will adopt the report,” said the official. “They may accept it in whole or in part, recommend action, or suggest further investigation to the government on certain matters.”
Potential Crisis for Prime Minister Balen
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Experts familiar with both the Karki and Thapa commission reports suggest the government could relatively easily implement the recommendations.
Since Thapa’s committee has identified responsibility for the September 9 incidents, concerns have arisen that a new phase of debate may unfold.
Former NHRC member and constitutional expert Surya Dhungel states, “The Karki Commission report had weaknesses regarding the September 9 events that the Human Rights Commission’s report will address. The government must carefully review both recommendations and take ownership. This could be a good opportunity for the administration.”
Yet, there is also concern about the consequences if disciplinary action is recommended against Prime Minister Balendra Shah.
According to Dhungel, recommendations related to Balen in the report will call for an official response from the Prime Minister.
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“If the report addresses his past role, Balen will need to seriously respond,” said Dhungel. “I believe he will welcome the report.”
There is also ongoing analysis regarding the potential ethical crisis that could arise if action is recommended against the Prime Minister.
Dhungel adds, “If serious allegations are raised, further investigation may be necessary. Responses and information from various responsible individuals will emerge, and how these are presented in the report will be very important.”
