Kathmandu – As controversy escalates surrounding Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent official visit to Spain, Nepal’s Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has ordered an investigation into individuals who traveled alongside the official government delegation but were not officially part of it.
In a meeting held Monday at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Minister Lekhak held discussions with Home Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deepak Thapa. During the meeting, the minister specifically instructed a comprehensive investigation into how these individuals traveled to Spain—detailing the process, the documents used, and the organizations that recommended them.
Suspicion Over Use of Visit Visas
According to ministry sources, suspicions have emerged that some individuals entered Spain using “visit visas.” This has prompted the government to prepare for a broad investigation into potential misuse of the official visit.
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Anti-Human Trafficking Bureau have been assigned to lead the probe. Minister Lekhak stated that if the investigation finds any criminal involvement or procedural irregularities, legal action will be taken without exception.
Timeline of the Official Trip
Prime Minister Oli departed for Spain on Jun 28 (Asar 14) and returned to Nepal on july 4 (Asar 20) with his official delegation.
However, reports suggest that additional Nepali citizens also traveled to Spain during the same period. Some of these individuals are now suspected of not returning to Nepal, raising serious questions about the nature and legitimacy of their travel.
Parliamentary Concerns Over Missing Individuals
The issue gained national attention when Member of Parliament Sobita Gautam, from the Rastriya Swatantra Party, raised concerns in Parliament on july 8 (Asar 24). She cited media reports stating that some individuals who traveled during the Spain visit were missing. Her statement was followed by multiple news reports confirming that some travelers had indeed not returned to Nepal.
The government is now facing increased pressure to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure transparency and accountability regarding official international visits.
