KATHMANDU: Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal on Thursday addressed questions over the government’s decision to restrict passports of senior political leaders, stressing that investigative agencies have the authority not only to block travel documents but also to carry out arrests when necessary.

Speaking to reporters at the ministry, Aryal said, “If an investigative body decides passports need to be blocked, that is their decision. Why stop there? If they need to make arrests or summon statements, that too falls within their jurisdiction. Whatever happens is up to the investigating agency.”

Aryal also linked himself to the demands of the Gen-Z protest movement, insisting that their agenda remains his own.

“We also come from the same streets,” he said. “The issues Gen-Z raised are the same issues we fought for — against corruption and in favor of good governance. Once you have taken up that fight, there is no question of abandoning it.”