KATHMANDU – A new report exposes the devastating consequences of unchecked police power in Nepal, revealing that direct orders led to the deaths of 19 people, including many young students in school uniforms, during protests last September. The incident highlights the vulnerability of marginalized youth and the urgent need for police reform.

The BBC investigation sheds light on the systemic issues that enabled the tragedy. The fact that so many of the victims were Gen Z protesters, some still wearing their school uniforms, underscores the depth of the grievances felt by the younger generation in Nepal. These were not hardened criminals, but students expressing their concerns, met with lethal force.

The investigation points to a clear failure of accountability and oversight within the police force. The orders that led to the shootings represent a gross violation of human rights and a disregard for the lives of young people. The lack of transparency surrounding the incident raises serious questions about the government's commitment to justice and equity.

The report demands a thorough and independent investigation into the chain of command responsible for the deadly orders. It calls for sweeping reforms to police training and protocols, emphasizing de-escalation tactics and respect for human rights. The victims' families deserve justice, and Nepal's youth deserve a future free from the threat of police brutality.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of protecting the rights of all citizens, especially those most vulnerable. We must stand in solidarity with the people of Nepal in their fight for justice and accountability, ensuring that such atrocities never happen again. The incident necessitates a broader conversation about the role of law enforcement in a democratic society, particularly in relation to peaceful protest and dissent.