Kathmandu, 6 Chaitra — Former Minister Deepak Khadka was arrested on 15 Chaitra 2082 (Nepali calendar) on charges of money laundering. The Supreme Court ordered his release after granting bail on the grounds that the arrest was illegal following a habeas corpus petition. Around 20 months ago, during the formation of the new government, Lumbini Province MP Rekha Kumari Sharma was also arrested for allegedly keeping child labor at home. However, the District Court ordered her release.
Within 24 hours of the government’s formation, former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lal Thakuri were arrested as well. Although the Kathmandu District Court repeatedly extended their detention periods, the Supreme Court ultimately ordered their release. The Supreme Court emphasized Oli’s health condition and cited humanitarian reasons in its decision to release both Oli and Thakuri.
Meanwhile, some individuals arrested during investigations remain in custody, while courts have raised procedural concerns and ordered the release of others.
Following the formation of the government, there was a continuous wave of arrests of VIP individuals, but this trend has diminished in recent days. Addressing media inquiries about this, Home Minister Sudan Gurung said, “Initially, when we acted hastily, the judiciary halted our actions. I am currently conducting a detailed study of the laws and regulations. Afterward, I plan to provide a clarification to the judiciary.”
