Kathmandu — Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were released on bail on Friday after the Supreme Court ordered authorities not to extend their custody and to conclude the investigation within the set deadline. The two were arrested earlier in connection with a negligence-related death case based on a probe commission report, but were freed after police failed to file charges within the extended remand period, shifting the high-profile case into further investigation outside detention.
Arrests Linked to Negligence Death Case
Oli was earlier detained in a negligence-related death investigation, where authorities accused him of failing to act during a fatal incident. The case stems from a probe committee’s findings on administrative lapses.
He was taken into custody following recommendations from a government-formed commission. Read: KP Sharma Oli arrest in negligence death case
Shortly after, former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was also arrested from Maharajgunj in connection with the same investigation, intensifying the political and legal fallout. Read: Ramesh Lekhak arrest details
Supreme Court Order Forces Release Decision
The case took a decisive turn on April 6, when the Supreme Court ordered authorities not to extend their custody beyond the approved deadline. The ruling effectively blocked further detention without formal charges.
The court stated that while initial arrest was legally justified, investigators must either file a case or release the accused under legal provisions. Read: Supreme Court release order update
Bail Release Highlights Investigation Delays
With the deadline expiring and no charges filed, police released both leaders under “hajiri jamani,” requiring them to appear when summoned. The court also noted that statements and key investigative steps had already been completed, raising concerns over why prosecution decisions were delayed.
Political Pressure Builds Around Case
The arrests followed a Cabinet decision to implement findings from a probe commission that linked top officials to negligence during a deadly incident. The move had triggered swift action from security agencies, including high-level coordination between the Home Ministry and police leadership.
Case Continues Despite Bail Release
Although released, both Oli and Lekhak remain under active investigation and could still face charges under Nepal’s criminal code related to negligence and reckless conduct.
The shift from custody to bail marks a turning point, but the case continues to carry significant political and legal implications in the days ahead.
