Nepal has imposed a travel ban on ousted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and four senior officials as part of an investigation into violent protests that shook the country earlier this month.
The announcement came from Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal on Monday, confirming that the restrictions are already in effect.
Those affected must now seek official clearance before leaving even the Kathmandu Valley.
The travel ban follows recommendations by a special commission set up by Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Nepal’s former chief justice who took office after Oli’s government collapsed.
The commission was tasked with probing the September unrest that left at least 73 people dead and inflicted massive economic losses.
The protests, which began on September 8, were sparked by a temporary social media ban but quickly escalated into nationwide demonstrations against economic hardship and corruption.
The government’s heavy-handed crackdown turned deadly, with parliament and key government offices set ablaze during two days of violent clashes.
Alongside Oli, the restrictions target former home minister Ramesh Lekhak, former National Investigation Department chief Hutaraj Thapa, and two senior bureaucrats.
Commission member Bigyan Raj Sharma stated that the men could be called in for questioning at any time and must remain available for investigation.
The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) estimates that the private sector including hotels, retail, and automobile industries suffered damages worth $600 million due to the unrest.
Oli, however, has denied responsibility for the violence, blaming “infiltrators” for the bloodshed.
He also claimed that the rifles used during the protests came from unidentified external sources, not the government.
Nepal now faces a difficult road ahead as it prepares for elections scheduled in March 2026.
Analysts say the interim government’s ability to maintain stability and restore public trust will determine whether the crisis deepens or gives way to political renewal.
