Kathmandu, Jan 28: In response to civil servants’ warnings of a nationwide work stoppage, the duties of the police officers involved in the assault at Tribhuvan Airport’s immigration office have been changed. This decision was implemented on Sunday following instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayankaji Shrestha.

The Ministry of Home Affairs revealed that the police officers responsible for the assault were removed from their duties, and other police personnel were assigned in their place on Sunday afternoon.

According to Narayan Bhatrai, spokesperson for the Home Ministry, the implicated policemen have not been assigned to any new duties. “They are not assigned to duty until the selection process is completed,” clarified spokesperson Bhattarai.

The Civil Service Organization representatives had issued a warning of a nationwide strike within three days if appropriate action was not taken. They expressed concerns about the safety of employees and met with Home Minister Shrestha to convey their grievances.

The incident occurred on Friday afternoon when Chaya Lal Moktan, an immigration officer, was subjected to brutal assault by the police. Gogan Hamal, head of the Tribhuvan International Airport Immigration Office, was also mistreated by the stationed police.

The government is currently investigating the incident through an inquiry committee, and CCTV footage capturing the initial dispute and assault has been released.

The incident has sparked a debate with both parties involved not admitting fault. The organizations associated with the individuals are also standing firm in their positions. While the immigration officials claim they were assaulted, the police argue that they were acting in self-defense, with public videos showing involvement from both sides in the incident.