Nepal has imposed travel bans on ousted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and four former senior officials as part of an investigation into deadly unrest earlier this month, the country’s interior minister announced on Monday.
The unrest began on 8 September as youth-led demonstrations over a brief social media ban, economic hardship, and corruption. These protests quickly escalated into nationwide fury following a deadly government crackdown.
- Casualties: At least 73 people were killed over two days of violence.
- Damage: The parliament and government offices were burned down.
- Outcome: The unrest forced the government’s collapse.
In addition to Oli, travel restrictions were placed on:
| Name | Position / Role |
| Ramesh Lekhak | Former Home Minister |
| Hutaraj Thapa | Former Head of National Investigation Department (security agency) |
| Two other senior bureaucrats | Former senior government officials |
Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who is leading Nepal until elections in March 2026, established a commission to probe the violence.
The commission recommended the travel bans on Sunday, according to reports.
Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal confirmed to AFP on Monday that the ban is already in effect.
Commission member Bigyan Raj Sharma explained that the five men must obtain permission to leave the Kathmandu Valley, as they “may need to appear for investigation at any time.”
The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) estimates the private sector, including automobile, hotel, and retail industries, suffered losses worth $600 million during the unrest.
Former Prime Minister Oli has blamed “infiltrators” for inciting the violence and alleges rifles used in the protests came from another source.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to assess the scale of the unrest and hold those responsible accountable.
