KATHMANDU: A heated exchange has unfolded on Facebook between CPN (UML) General Secretary Shankar Pokharel and Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal.

Pokharel accused Minister Aryal of obstructing police action against those responsible for the Gen Z protests, urging that perpetrators of the September 8-9 violence, vandalism, arson, and looting be held accountable under the law.

He criticized attempts to generalize the incidents and alleged political interference in police investigations, emphasizing that the UML would fully support the Nepal Police in conducting independent investigations and prosecutions.

Responding to Pokharel’s post, Minister Aryal strongly refuted the claims, stating, “Dear Shankar sir, do not make baseless statements about my duties. I have publicly clarified the facts and informed you as well. Why repeat falsehoods?”

Aryal urged Pokharel, as a responsible leader, to avoid exaggerations and not contribute to societal rumor-mongering.