KATHMANDU: Former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who were arrested in connection with the September 8, 2025 incidents, are now set to face criminal investigation for offenses related to loss of life.

Under the Muluki Criminal Procedure Code, 2074 (Civil code-2017) the police may keep the accused in custody for up to 25 days with court approval to conduct the investigation. During this period, the police are required to complete their investigation report and file the case in court through the Office of the Government Attorney.

Accordingly, Oli and Lekhak are scheduled to be presented before the District Court, Kathmandu, on Sunday. The police can continue to hold them in custody only if the court grants permission for investigative detention.

The arrests stem from the September- 08 Gen-Z protests, during which police used force that resulted in the deaths of several youths. Following this, the Commission of Inquiry, led by former high court judge Gauri Bahadur Karki, submitted a report to the government. The first cabinet of Balen Shah led new government decided to implement the recommendations of the commission, which led to the arrests of Oli and Lekhak.

The commission recommended investigation under Sections 181 and 182 of the Muluki Criminal Code, 2074. Section 181 covers negligent actions causing death, punishable by 3–10 years in prison and fines ranging from Rs. 30,000 to 100,000. Section 182 covers acts of dereliction of duty leading to death, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and fines up to NPR 30,000.

The commission had also recommended action against then-IGP Chandra Kuber Khapung, but the cabinet decided to form a study committee for security personnel, and Khapung has not been arrested.

Police have confirmed that investigations against Oli and Lekhak will now proceed under these provisions.