Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak Testifies on Instructions Given During 'Janjati' Protests

Kathmandu. Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has stated before the Inquiry Commission investigating the Janjati movement that he had instructed the Home Secretary and security chiefs to ensure that no loss of life or situation leading to death occurred during the use of force during the demonstration on Bhadra 23.

In the report, which remains confidential even after being submitted to the government by the commission, Lekhak stated that a meeting of the National Security Council was held at Baluwatar on the evening of Bhadra 22, where they received information from all security agencies, including the National Investigation Department and Nepal Police, that the Janjati movement on Bhadra 23 would be peaceful.

“In my capacity as Home Minister, I had directed the Home Secretary and security chiefs regarding the demonstration on the 23rd that there should be no casualties or situation leading to death when force is used, and to remain vigilant against risks and potential infiltration,” Lekhak's statement to the commission mentioned.

He also stated that the incident on Bhadra 24 should be viewed separately from the demands of the youth, and that he was firm that anyone involved in criminal acts should be prosecuted according to the law.