Former Kathmandu Chief District Officer Chhabi Rijal has been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into the Gen-Z protest case, marking a significant development in the high-profile inquiry.
A team from the Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office detained Rijal from his residence in Subidhanagar on Tuesday morning, officials confirmed. The arrest follows recommendations made by a government-formed probe panel tasked with examining incidents linked to the Gen-Z protest held on Bhadra 23 and 24.
Rijal was serving as the Chief District Officer of Kathmandu at the time of the protests. The investigation focuses on allegations of negligence that may have contributed to loss of life during the demonstrations. Based on the panel’s findings, authorities have initiated legal action under provisions of the Muluki Criminal Code 2074, specifically related to causing death through carelessness.
Under this provision, individuals found guilty can face up to three years in prison along with a fine of up to Rs 30,000. Officials involved in the investigation stated that the case is being pursued with a focus on accountability and adherence to legal procedures.
The Gen-Z protest case has already led to the arrest of several high-profile figures, including former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. Authorities have indicated that further actions could follow as the investigation progresses.
The developments have drawn widespread attention, with political and legal observers closely monitoring how the case unfolds. The arrest of a former administrative head highlights the expanding scope of the probe and signals a broader push toward institutional accountability.
As the Gen-Z protest case moves forward, legal proceedings are expected to clarify the extent of responsibility and set a precedent for handling similar incidents in the future.
