Investigation Commission Raises Questions Over Cash Found at Former PM Deuba's Residence After Protests

Kathmandu. The investigation commission formed to probe the shooting incident at the Parliament building premises on Bhadra 23 during the 'Jyanji' protests and the subsequent violent incidents on Bhadra 24 has raised questions regarding the cash found at the residences of leaders including former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Through its report, the commission has recommended that the government conduct a detailed investigation, in accordance with the law, into the cash, whether burned or unburned, discovered when Deuba's house was attacked.

It was revealed that a large amount of cash was found at the residences of former Prime Minister Deuba and other individuals when demonstrators attacked their homes on Bhadra 24. The commission led by Gauri Bahadur Karki emphasized the need to bring this matter under legal investigation, demanding further clarification on the source and condition of the funds.

The commission also concluded that the events of Bhadra 24 cannot be considered solely as retaliation for the then-government's crackdown on unarmed youth protesters on Bhadra 23.
The report mentions that during the investigation, the commission conducted an in-depth analysis based on CCTV footage, audio-visual materials from various government, public, and private locations, and BIS data obtained from service providers like Nepal Telecom and Ncell. The commission determined that political party cadres were also involved in the vandalism, looting, and arson incidents that occurred that day under the guise of 'Jyanji' protests.

The then heads of various political parties themselves gave statements to the commission, stating that if their cadres were involved, they should be punished. The commission believes this will facilitate the investigation officers in reaching the culprits.

Although the commission has already submitted its report to the government, it has not yet been made public.