KATHMANDU, March 28: CPN-UML Secretary Mahesh Basnet has warned that any attempt by the government to carry out arrests or pursue political vendetta in the name of implementing the probe panel report on the Gen Z incident could push the country back towards conflict.
Basnet issued the warning through a Facebook post shortly after the first Cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah decided to move ahead with the implementation of the report prepared by the commission headed by Gauri Bahadur Karki.
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According to Basnet, the government’s decision appears “controversial and conspiratorial,” particularly as it reportedly opts to form a study committee in cases involving security personnel while directly enforcing the report against political figures, including the then prime minister and home minister. “If, in the name of implementing the Karki Commission report, the government attempts arrests or political revenge, it will not only falter at the very beginning but also risk pushing the country back into conflict,” Basnet said, calling such moves unacceptable under any circumstances.
He stressed that justice must be applied equally to all, warning that selective implementation could invite strong resistance. Referring to the incidents of September 8 and 9, Basnet said those involved in instigating protests, forcing schoolchildren onto the streets, and creating a climate of fear must be investigated. He also called for action against those responsible for violent unrest, including arson and vandalism targeting key state institutions such as Parliament, Singha Durbar and the Supreme Court, as well as private property.
Basnet further alleged that some individuals involved in those incidents are now holding positions as prime minister, ministers and lawmakers, and insisted that all sides must be subject to impartial investigation.
He also raised concerns over the possible use of funds from “suspicious” non-governmental and international non-governmental organisations in the protests, terming such activities unacceptable. “Any move taken without an impartial investigation into all sides will be inherently prejudiced,” Basnet said.