KATHMANDU: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has labeled the arson and violence in Tinkune, Kathmandu, on March 28 as a “criminal act,” asserting that it should not be connected to any religion or faith.

Responding to questions from lawmakers during Monday’s House of Representatives session, Minister Lekhak criticized the incident’s pro-monarchy advocacy, stating it contradicts Nepal’s constitution. “Violence cannot be justified in the name of religion,” he emphasized.

Lekhak informed the House that those involved have been apprehended and are under investigation. He assured that anyone engaged in criminal activities, regardless of their affiliations, would face legal consequences.

He also highlighted the government’s vigilance to prevent such incidents and insisted that the organizers must be held accountable for the violence in Tinkune.

The minister further informed that the government is providing free medical treatment for the injured, with two individuals still receiving care.

Lawmakers Prem Suwal, Nisha Dangi, and Sobita Gautam raised questions to the Home Minister regarding the incident.