Investigation Intensifies: Police Prepare to Record Statements of Former PM Oli and Ex-Home Minister Lekhak

KalimNews, March 5, 2026, Kathmandu :   Police have begun preparations to record statements from former Prime Minister and UML Chairman K.P. Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak starting Tuesday, as part of an ongoing investigation.

After receiving court approval to keep both leaders in custody for five days, authorities have moved forward with plans to take their statements. The investigation is primarily focused on the findings of the inquiry commission related to the incidents of Bhadra 23 and 24, while efforts are also underway to gather additional evidence.

According to Kathmandu Police Chief SSP Ramesh Thapa, the arrests were made in line with implementing the commission’s report. He stated: “They have been arrested to implement the report, and accordingly, processes such as recording their statements are likely to begin from Tuesday. Investigation officers are currently making the necessary preparations.”

Officials involved in the investigation noted that several questions must be framed based on available evidence, requiring careful preparation before the statements are recorded.

At present, K.P. Sharma Oli is being kept at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital due to health concerns, while Ramesh Lekhak is in custody at the Maharajgunj-based Police Battalion No. 2.

Oli was presented for the extension of his remand through an online hearing, considering his health condition. In contrast, Lekhak appeared physically in court.

Authorities have yet to finalize how exactly the statements will be recorded, particularly in Oli’s case, due to health and security considerations.

The investigation is based on the report led by Gauri Bahadur Karki, which recommended legal action against both leaders under Sections 181 and 182 of the National Penal Code.

• Section 181 states that no person should cause death through negligent actions.
• Section 182 addresses causing death due to reckless or careless behavior.

If found guilty under Section 181, the punishment may include 3 to 10 years of imprisonment along with a fine ranging from NPR 30,000 to 100,000. Under Section 182, the penalty may extend up to 2 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to NPR 30,000.

As the investigation progresses, the recording of statements from key political figures marks a crucial step in determining accountability. With legal, political, and public attention focused on the case, the coming days are expected to play a significant role in shaping its outcome.