Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has expressed concern over the government’s decision to implement the Gauri Bahadur Karki-led judicial probe commission’s report on the September protests, which led to the arrest of former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak.

Issuing a statement on Saturday, Bhandari described the arrests by the Balendra Shah-led administration as a highly sensitive matter with far-reaching consequences. “Such an immature decision appears to be inconsistent with the Constitution of Nepal, prevailing laws, and established democratic practices,” she said.

The former president emphasised that implementing the commission’s report requires due legal process, sufficient study and institutional consultation. She warned that hasty decisions could erode public trust in the rule of law and risk plunging the country into conflict and instability.

Expressing disappointment that such a move came from a government formed with good governance as its primary agenda, Bhandari urged the executive to withdraw the decision while respecting democratic values and constitutional dignity.

She further called on the government to exercise restraint, adhere to legal procedures and remain committed to protecting the country’s stability and democratic system.