Impartial inquiry promised on Gen-Z incidents

By Siraj Khan,Nepalgunj, Nov. 2: Bigyan Raj Sharma, spokesperson and member of the High-Level Investigation Commission formed by the government to probe the incidents of September 8-9, has assured that the commission will carry out an impartial and independent investigation.

Speaking at a consultation meeting recently held in Nepalgunj, Sharma urged all concerned not to doubt the commission’s impartiality and called for full cooperation in the investigation process.

The meeting was organised to gather suggestions and information from heads of government offices, representatives of political parties, organisations and journalists. He assured that the commission’s report would not contain any misleading information. 

He also clarified that it is not necessary to wait for the commission’s report to begin investigation and legal proceedings on criminal offences. “Our role is to conduct fact-finding, provide indications, and make recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future,” spokesperson Sharma added. 

Addressing queries about the government’s earlier decision to restrict the passports of some former officials, he explained that the move was procedural to ensure availability for statements and that there were no obstacles for those travelling abroad with due approval.

During the same programme, Superintendent of Police (SP) Angur GC, Chief of the District Police Office, Banke, reported that 29 government offices were either vandalised or set on fire during the protests. 

Among them, 21 offices were completely destroyed, six partially damaged, and two sustained minor damage. The Jayaspur Area Police Office suffered partial damage, while the temporary traffic police post in Nepalgunj was completely destroyed. Four police vehicles were also burnt.

Additionally, two political party offices sustained major damage. Police further reported that 245 two-wheelers, 41 four-wheelers, 21 three-wheelers, and two six-wheeled trucks were completely destroyed during the demonstrations.

During the meeting, Acting Chief District Officer of Banke, Purna Bahadur Khatri, District Coordination Committee Chief Gyanendra Chaudhary, Nepali Congress Banke Secretary Sudhanshu Koirala and UML leader Ghananath Khanal, among others, emphasised the need for a fair and transparent investigation.

They also called for strict action against those involved in acts of vandalism and destruction.

Before the event, a team led by Commission Spokesperson Sharma conducted on-site inspections of the damaged government offices in Banke district and collected detailed information on the losses.