Police Brutality in Nepal Calls for Urgent Reform

Nepal has been witnessing rising concerns over police brutality, as a series of recent incidents reflect growing tensions between law enforcement and civilians. These recurring cases are raising urgent questions about the state of human rights protections in the country.

In one such incident, a disturbing video that went viral showed a traffic police officer in Kathmandu kicking a civilian during a routine check near Kalanki. The footage captures the officer aggressively confronting and physically assaulting the man after a disagreement over traffic documents. Eyewitnesses stated that the civilian was cooperative and non-violent throughout the exchange. The officer was swiftly suspended, and the Metropolitan Traffic Division issued a public apology.

However, rights advocates argue that apologies and suspensions are not enough. They point to a deeper, systemic issue—a culture of impunity within Nepal’s police force that has allowed incidents of excessive force to persist unchecked. Over the past few years, cases of police brutality have become alarmingly frequent, demanding urgent and meaningful reform.

Deadly Clashes at Pro-Monarchy Rally

On March 28, 2025, a pro-monarchy rally in Kathmandu turned violent, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including a journalist, and injuries to at least 112 people. The demonstration, supporting the restoration of Nepal’s monarchy and Hindu statehood, escalated when protesters breached police barricades. In response, police fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition into the air. The government’s subsequent imposition of a curfew and deployment of additional security forces drew criticism from human rights organizations.

Assault in Chitwan Sparks Outrage

Earlier this year, a video from Bharatpur, Chitwan went viral, showing Assistant Sub-Inspector Buddhi Bahadur Gharti Bhujel kicking and stomping on a young man during a routine vehicle check. The graphic footage triggered widespread condemnation. While Bhujel was suspended and an investigation was launched, many argue that the response is an act of excessive force used by the police.

Madhesi Commission Urges Action After NPL Final Incident

Following the Nepal Premier League final in December 2024, the Madhesi Commission called on the police administration to take action against individuals involved in misbehaving with supporters of the Janakpur Bolts team. The Commission called on the police to identify and prosecute those involved, stressing the need for sensitivity in handling ethnic and regional grievances.

Calls for Reform and Accountability

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Nepal has urged the government to refrain from using excessive force against protesters and to uphold citizens’ rights to freedom of opinion and expression. While acknowledging the need for lawful protest, the NHRC emphasized the importance of proportionate police responses and the protection of human rights. Despite such appeals, accountability remains elusive. Few officers face real consequences for misconduct, and the lack of transparency in internal investigations continues to erode public trust.

Demand for Change

The recent surge in reports of police brutality in Nepal underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the country’s law enforcement agencies. Without meaningful change, experts warn, the gap between law enforcement and the public will only widen, putting both democracy and social harmony at risk.