KATHMANDU: The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has expressed concern over the killing of protesters in Nepal on Monday and has urged the government to conduct a swift and transparent investigation into the incident.
In a statement issued on behalf of OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, the office said it was “shocked” by reports of deaths and injuries during demonstrations. “We call for a prompt and transparent investigation into the killings and injuries of protesters in Nepal,” the statement read.
The protests erupted against the government’s restrictions on social media platforms, with demonstrators denouncing the move as an attack on free expression. According to the UN office, reports suggest that security forces used unnecessary force to suppress the gatherings.
“The use of force, particularly firearms, must comply with fundamental international principles,” Shamdasani stated. “We urge the authorities to respect and ensure the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.”
The OHCHR has also reminded the Nepal government of its international human rights obligations and called for accountability in the use of force by security personnel.
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