Former Nepal Prime Minister and chief of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), KP Sharma Oli, has been admitted to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital after reportedly suffering episodes of irregular heartbeat, according to ANI. His hospitalisation comes a day after he was taken into custody, intensifying attention on both his health and Nepal’s evolving political crisis.

Medical teams are keeping the 74-year-old leader under close supervision. Oli has a documented history of health complications following kidney transplants and is managing multiple conditions, including atrial fibrillation, diabetes, high blood pressure and thyroid-related disorders.

Oli was arrested on Saturday over allegations tied to the handling of the September 2025 youth-led protests, which saw violent clashes and reported fatalities. Investigators have invoked serious charges connected to deaths during the demonstrations. The Kathmandu District Court has authorised his detention for five days to facilitate questioning. Owing to his medical condition, he joined court proceedings virtually from the hospital, while former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak — also arrested in the case — appeared in person.

Protests Intensify in Kathmandu

Oli’s detention has sparked demonstrations by supporters of the UML, particularly in Kathmandu. Protesters took to the streets demanding his immediate release, leading to confrontations with security personnel.

Authorities reported incidents of stone-throwing by demonstrators, prompting police to use batons to disperse crowds. At least one person sustained injuries, and several individuals were detained during the unrest.

The UML has announced nationwide protests and called for the resignation of Home Minister Sudhan Gurung. Party leaders have criticised the inquiry into the September 8–9, 2025 violence, alleging bias and seeking the scrapping of a report prepared under the leadership of Gauri Bahadur Karki. They have also demanded impartial investigations into incidents of vandalism and arson reported during the protests.

Party officials have indicated that further demonstrations could follow if Oli and Lekhak remain in custody.