The Supreme Court on Monday directed authorities to conclude the investigation into former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak by Thursday, April 9, or release them from custody.

A division bench of justices Binod Sharma and Sunil Kumar Pokhrel declined to order their immediate release but set a deadline for completing the probe.

“Complete the investigation and take necessary legal action, or release Oli and Lekhak from custody in accordance with the National Criminal Procedure Code,” the court order said.

Oli and Lekhak were arrested on March 28 on charges linked to the use of lethal force during the Gen Z protests on September 8, which left 19 people dead.

Their arrest followed recommendations from Gauri Bahadur Karki-led inquiry commission formed to investigate the incident. The commission has recommended that Oli, Lekhak and then Inspector General of Police Chandra Kuber Khapung be charged under Sections 181 and 182 of the National Penal Code for criminal negligence, carrying a possible prison term of up to 10 years.

Police initially secured a five-day remand on March 29, followed by a two-day extension on April 2. On April 5, the District Court granted a third five-day extension effective from April 4, set to expire on April 8.

In its order, the apex court said the investigation must be concluded within the current extension period. If a decision on prosecution is reached, authorities should proceed accordingly. If not, the two must be released upon expiry of the remand period, while further investigation continues as per the law.

The court dismissed habeas corpus petitions filed by Oli and Lekhak, stating their detention could not be deemed unlawful.