Former Nepal PM KP Oli Arrested Over Protest Crackdown a Day After Balen Shah Takes Oath

Kathmandu: There was a big stir in Nepal's politics this morning. Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was arrested from his house on Saturday morning. This action has been taken in the case of violence and deaths during the Gen Z movement that took place in September 2025.

Why was Oli arrested?

Oli is accused that being the prime minister at that time, he did not stop the police firing on the protesters in time. Firing continued for several hours on the very first day, in which at least 19 youth were killed. The inquiry commission has held him responsible for criminal negligence and failure to handle the situation. The report clearly said that as the head of the government, it was Oli's responsibility to control such a situation.

Was action taken against other people also?

The then home minister Ramesh Lekhak was also arrested from his house this morning. Besides, the role of many officers including the then police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung is also under investigation. The police took this action by deploying heavy security forces at the houses of both the leaders early in the morning.

What was the Gen Z movement all about?

In September 2025, Nepal's youth (especially Gen Z) started mass demonstrations. What started as a protest against the ban on social media soon turned into widespread anger against corruption, unemployment and the system. Youth took to the streets and the movement spread across the country.

How severe was the violence?

On the very first day (September 8), 19 youths were killed in police firing in Naya Baneshwar area of ​​Kathmandu. A total of 76-77 people died and more than 2000 were injured in the two-day agitation and subsequent violence. The protesters also set fire to Parliament, the Prime Minister's residence, the Supreme Court and several government buildings. The situation worsened so much that many leaders including Oli had to be evacuated with the help of the army.

What did the commission of inquiry conclude?

The commission's report said that Oli did not take any concrete steps to stop the violence in time, which led to huge loss of life and property. The report also held the Home Minister and the police chief responsible. The commission had recommended the government investigate, interrogate and prosecute them.

What will be the impact on Nepal's politics?

This arrest can further heat up Nepal's politics. A new government has been formed following recent elections (rapper-engineer Balen Shah has become Prime Minister). Oli's supporters are considering it political revenge, while Gen Z youth and the victim's families are calling it a long-sought victory of justice. There may be big demonstrations and controversies in the coming days.

Overall, the Gen Z movement had already brought down a government. Now even after a year, its effects are clearly visible on Nepal's politics. The anger of the youth still does not seem to have cooled down.