The third edition of the ‘Tikapur Literary Festival 2082’ was successfully held in Tikapur from Chaitra 13 to 15. The festival, jointly organized by the Tikapur Literary Society and the Sudurpashchim Academy, concluded on Sunday. Organizers informed that the festival encompassed various themes including language, literature, art, culture, education, and social development. According to Mahesh Bikram Shah, the founding coordinator of the festival, the third edition focused particularly on the theme of ‘Tharu Literature and Cultural Festival.’
Mahesh Bikram Shah stated, “Our efforts have strengthened and sustained the literary and cultural identity of Sudurpashchim Province, while promoting the message of multilingual and multicultural coexistence.” Throughout the festival, 21 special sessions were held featuring in-depth discussions and interactions on language, literature, art, music, local livelihoods, history, identity, politics, society, and contemporary issues. The event saw the participation of esteemed linguists, writers, artists, social thinkers, doctors, journalists, researchers, cultural experts, development specialists, and tourism activists from across the country.
The first series of the festival included a boat ride on the Karnali River and a performance of Tharu cultural dance. The second series featured street drama performances, writing workshops, and a province-level poetry festival. During the third series, various activities took place including theatrical performances, displays of Tharu folk culture, intellectual dialogues, poetry and ghazal recitals, musical programs, and a presentation of Deuda, a traditional dance from Sudurpashchim. The fourth series showcased the critically endangered ‘Ramleela dance,’ an important heritage of Tharu folk culture.
Mahesh Bikram Shah claimed that the direct dialogue involving the knowledge, experience, and creative journeys of established figures in literature, art, and social fields benefitted the local community. He added, “We believe our efforts will help establish Tikapur Municipality as a center of literature and culture.” The festival is expected to positively influence local tourism promotion, economic activities, and cultural awakening.
If you are a parent, you might find validation in a recent US court ruling that held Meta and Google accountable for building addictive social media platforms that harmed a young woman’s mental health. The young woman, named Kelly, was represented by lawyers who argued that features like Instagram’s never-ending ‘infinite scroll’ are intentionally addictive. The court’s decision has been hailed as a ‘defining moment’ for social media companies. However, for parents trying to reduce the amount of screen time their young children spend, this ruling holds limited practical value. We consulted several child-rearing experts to gather their advice on how to help children spend less time on phones, even if only for a short while.
1. Start Early and Be Realistic. Many parents have already given their children tablets or smartphones, so thoughtful consideration before introducing these devices is crucial. Child psychologist Dr. Jane Gilmer emphasizes that completely banning phone use is often not the right choice. She explains, “Changing habits is never easy.” She advises that changes should be introduced calmly and objectively rather than during arguments over screen time. “A calm mindset facilitates effective communication.” As a first step, designating a specific place in the home for storing devices, such as a particular drawer, can be beneficial. “Assign a specific spot for chargers where the phone can be placed to charge when turned off, and that’s where the matter ends.”
2. Collaborate. Child psychologist Dr. Marihan Baker believes that instead of imposing strict rules, older children and teenagers should be involved in discussions about screen time. She says, “I understand this space is important for connecting with your friends. I recognize the social pressure that comes with not using it. Therefore, it’s important we discuss how to balance your time and ours, which will help you stay away from the phone when needed.” Parenting coach Olivia Edwards adds that building a strong relationship with the child or adolescent is essential to successfully reduce screen time.
3. Use Screen Time as a Learning Opportunity. Many parents struggle to understand the trends and features of social media, but this can create opportunities for open discussions about screen time between adults and children. Olivia suggests, “You can ask, ‘Do you know how social media works? Apps are designed to attract people. They earn money based on the time people spend watching – did you know that?'” Dr. Jane points out that this approach helps parents teach children digital literacy.
4. Model Good Behavior. It’s clear that children imitate their parents, so reflecting on your own screen habits is crucial to establishing healthy practices. Marihan recommends approaching this in a light and fun way: “We can say to our children with self-awareness, ‘We all are guilty of this, and our relationship with phones needs improvement. I haven’t been the best at it either.’”
5. Don’t Panic. Raising children has never been easy, and today’s screen era adds complexities we must understand, including concerns. Dr. Tony Sampson, a digital communication expert at the University of Essex, advises parents not to fall into excessive fear. “Parents often become petrified by communication fears and assume every adolescent’s brain is wired to be addicted to social media,” he says. However, children and teenagers have a brain capability called ‘neuroplasticity,’ which allows them to adapt to and recover from their circumstances.
“Social media doesn’t disrupt attention; it captures it, directing it toward commercial content,” he adds. “Positive use of technology can enhance neuroplasticity, fostering creativity, exploration, and learning.”
If you’re a parent, you may feel validated by a recent US court ruling finding that Meta and Google knowingly created addictive features on social media platforms which harmed a young woman’s mental health.
The young woman’s lawyers claimed that features like Instagram’s endless “infinite scroll” are designed to be addictive.
The court’s decision has been hailed as a ‘decisive moment’ for social media companies. However, for parents trying to reduce their children’s screen time, its practical relevance may be limited.
We consulted several parenting experts for practical advice on how to limit children’s time on phones, even if only for short periods.
1. Start Small and Be Realistic
Many parents have already given their children tablets or smartphones, so it’s important to make thoughtful decisions about when and how to provide these devices. However, child psychologist Dr. Jane Gilmer advises against completely banning phone use, as that is often unrealistic.
She explains, “Changing habits is always difficult.” She recommends making changes during calm and neutral times rather than during conflicts about screen time. “A calm mind communicates best.”
A useful first step might be designating specific spots at home to place these devices, such as a particular drawer.
“Assign a special place for chargers so phones can be put on charge and stay there when turned off, and that’s it,” she adds.
2. Collaborate
Image source, Arthur Debat/ Getty Images
Child psychologist Dr. Maryhan Baker believes that rather than imposing strict rules, it’s important to involve older children and teenagers in conversations about screen time.
She notes that peer pressure on social media can help teenagers agree to limits: “I understand this is the place you connect with your friends. I also understand the social pressure when you can’t use it. Therefore, we need to discuss how we can plan our time so that it helps keep you away from the phone.”
Parenting coach Olivia Edwards also stresses the importance of building a strong relationship with children or teenagers to help reduce screen time.
“We need to create strong bonds with our children because this fosters cooperation and a sense of community,” she says.
This includes showing genuine interest in the content children consume online, she adds.
3. Use Screen Time as Learning Opportunities
Many parents struggle to understand social media trends and behaviors. Yet, this can open up meaningful discussions about screen time for both children and adults.
Olivia suggests, “You can say, ‘Do you know how social media works? How apps seem to appeal to people? People earn money based on how long viewers watch; did you know that?’”
Dr. Jane points out that in this way parents can help foster digital literacy in children.
“When you see some content, you might say, ‘What do you think about this? Where is it leading? How can we find out?’”
4. Model Good Behavior
It’s clear that children imitate their parents. Therefore, to instill good screen habits, self-reflection is essential.
Maryhan recommends approaching this with lightheartedness and humor. “We can joke with children and say, ‘We are all guilty of this and should improve our relationship with phones; I haven’t been great at it myself.'”
Phones and tablets provide entertainment for all ages, but Dr. Jane stresses that both adults and children sometimes need to accept boredom.
“When watching screens, your attention is on the external world, but when we turn inward, looking at the middle distance helps us remember the past, imagine the future, and boost creativity.”
“When children resist, it’s important to recognize that they are seeking space for themselves, which is perfectly normal and positive, not negative.”
5. Don’t Panic
Parenting has always been challenging, but in the digital age, we are understanding the impact of screens more deeply, which can be concerning.
Dr. Tony Sampson, a digital communication expert at the University of Essex, advises parents not to fall into excessive fear.
“Parents often enter into a communication panic, believing all teens’ brains are wired for social media addiction,” he says.
However, children’s and teenagers’ brains possess ‘neuroplasticity,’ which enables adaptation and recovery.
“Social media doesn’t just distract attention; it captures it and directs it toward commercial content,” he explains.
“Using technology positively can enhance neuroplasticity, fostering creativity, exploration, and learning.”
President Ramchandra Paudel has announced the convening of a session for both houses of the Federal Parliament on Chaitra 19. The Cabinet meeting had recommended the President to call the parliamentary session on that date. This will be the first session of the Federal Parliament since the formation of the new government.
Chaitra 16, Kathmandu. President Ramchandra Paudel has formally convened sessions for both houses of the Federal Parliament. On Monday, the Cabinet meeting proposed to the President to convene Parliament on Chaitra 19. Based on this decision, President Paudel has called for the session, according to Ritish Kumar Shakya, spokesperson for the President’s Office. The government had recommended holding the parliamentary session at 2 PM on Chaitra 19. This marks the first session of the Federal Parliament following the elections held on Falgun 21 and the subsequent formation of the new government.
Kathmandu, March 30 – Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari visited Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in Maharajgunj on Monday to inquire about the health condition of KP Sharma Oli, chairman of the CPN-UML. Rajkumar Rai, Bhandari’s personal secretary, confirmed that the former president obtained updates on Oli’s health and also consulted with doctors regarding his condition.
Oli, who has also served as Prime Minister, was arrested by police on Saturday under government directive to implement the report of the investigative commission led by Gauribahadur Karki. The commission was appointed to probe the incidents of September 8 and 9. Following his arrest, Oli was admitted to the teaching hospital for medical treatment. –Rastriya Samachar Samiti
The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) was established in 1953. Following the restoration of multiparty democracy, ANFA has started selecting its leadership through a democratic electoral process. However, the election process within ANFA has not been smooth or free from controversy. As Nepal’s most popular sport and highest-budget organization, ANFA has repeatedly experienced disputes during leadership selection.
In 1987, after a cyclone caused the death of over 71 people at the Dashrath Rangashala stadium, sports officials resigned on moral grounds. Those who resigned included then Sports Minister Keshar Bahadur Bista, National Sports Council Secretary Sharad Chandra Shah, and ANFA President Kamal Thapa. After Thapa’s resignation, Chandra Bahadur Gurung was appointed as ANFA president. After Gurung also stepped down, Dhruva Bahadur Pradhan served as acting president. Subsequently, Adityadhwaj Joshi took over ANFA’s leadership, but he too resigned, after which acting president Purushottam Shrestha assumed responsibilities.
Ganesh Thapa was appointed president on March 6, 1995 (Chaitra 22, 2051 BS). However, FIFA did not recognize Thapa’s leadership, instead recognizing the leadership of Rukma Shamsher. Thapa’s ad hoc committee held elections in October 1995 (Ashwin 2052 BS), which FIFA accepted, beginning an era of Thapa’s leadership in Nepali football. However, controversies started during his tenure. In 2005/06 (2062/63 BS), when elections were due, clubs in the ‘B’ division launched protests demanding 18 specific demands. Thapa had raised players’ salaries, which caused financial difficulties for the clubs.
Although ANFA’s term was set to end by July 19, 2026 (Asar 4, 2083 BS), its executive committee decided on January 12, 2026 (Magh 28, 2082 BS) to hold early elections. This decision sparked disputes. Several clubs and districts opposed holding central elections without conducting elections at lower levels. The Department of Sports sent a letter to ANFA instructing that elections should not be held without approval and ordered a postponement. ANFA responded by stating it was holding elections under FIFA’s directives and its own constitution and refused to halt the process. Currently, ANFA has suspended the Department of Sports, but the controversy continues.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin stressed that the Eurasian security framework should be based on regional organizations.
Galuzin stated that the Eurasian security system must be founded on the concept of “equal and indivisible security.”
The Deputy Foreign Minister argued that regional countries must take full responsibility for their own security and development.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin highlighted that the security architecture of Eurasia must be grounded in regional organizations.
He expressed this view while addressing the conference titled “Russia-Uzbekistan: Strategic Partnership in Eurasia,” held in Termez, Uzbekistan.
According to Galuzin, the Eurasian security system should not be targeted against any country but should be based on the concept of “equal and indivisible security,” meaning no nation should secure its own safety by endangering the security of another.
Deputy Foreign Minister Galuzin asserted that the concept of the “Greater Eurasian Partnership,” advanced by Russian President Vladimir Putin, aligns with Uzbekistan’s “Uzbekistan 2030” strategy.
He further argued that regional nations must assume full responsibility for their security and development without external military, political, or economic pressure.
Galuzin emphasized that institutions such as the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Union State of Russia and Belarus, the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) will play decisive roles in this process.
A land parcel measuring 6,120 square meters has been secured in Jumla for the Karnali High Altitude Training Center.
Kavidatt Nyaupane, Chief of the Jumla Sports Development Committee office, handed over the land ownership certificate to Ramcharitra Mehtal, Member-Secretary of the National Sports Council.
The land is located in Lothchaur, Ward No. 3 of Patarasi Rural Municipality and was provided by Lauro Bohara, Gor Bahadur Bohara, and Kumbhar Bohara.
March 30, Kathmandu – A parcel of land has been obtained in Jumla for the development of the Karnali High Altitude Training Center.
On Monday, Kavidatt Nyaupane, Chief of the Jumla Sports Development Committee office, formally handed over the land ownership certificate to Ramcharitra Mehtal, Member-Secretary of the National Sports Council.
The land, located in Lothchaur, Ward No. 3 of Patarasi Rural Municipality, was generously provided by Lauro Bohara, Gor Bahadur Bohara, and Kumbhar Bohara, according to Chief Nyaupane.
March 30, Kathmandu – Mahesh Basnet, Secretary of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), has welcomed the Kathmandu District Court’s decision not to issue an arrest warrant against him, as the police had not secured court approval for his arrest. In a statement released on Monday via Facebook, Secretary Basnet described the court’s order as a “welcome step by the judiciary against the politics of revenge.”
“Under directives from the autocratic Balen government and the so-called Home Minister, the Kathmandu District Police, through government attorneys, had proceeded with false criminal charges, but the District Court has ordered the police not to arrest me,” Basnet wrote. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Kathmandu District Court for this decision. The judiciary’s stance against vindictive politics is highly commendable.”
Today, the Kathmandu District Court refused to grant permission to issue an arrest warrant against Basnet, noting that the complaint and related case files had been forwarded to the Patan High Court.
The Postal Service Department has unveiled three new postal stamps featuring significant archaeological and historical themes. Communications and Information Technology Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina affixed the stamps on their first-day covers during the launch event. Minister Timilsina urged the department to modernize postal services, enhance efficiency, and accelerate the development of smart postal systems. Kathmandu, 16 Chaitra.
The new stamps depict Java Dam (fort), Dhurkot Palace in Gulmi, and the Nrishingh Avatar Dance (Kartik Dance). At the program held at the department’s office in Babarmahal on Monday, Minister Dr. Timilsina signed the first-day covers of all three stamps. He stated, “Postal stamps will play a vital role in preserving the nation’s historical, religious, and cultural heritage, thereby safeguarding our national identity.”
The minister emphasized the need to bring postal services closer to citizens and strengthen public service delivery. He instructed the department to prepare new action plans to accelerate work progress in line with the government’s 100-point roadmap. Additionally, he called for initiatives that inspire positive public expectations. Minister Timilsina stressed prioritizing the development of smart postal services to ensure timely and effective postal operations.
Secretary of the Ministry, Laxmikumari Basnet, noted that postal stamps contribute to the preservation and promotion of the country’s archaeological and historical assets. Director General of the Postal Service Department, Manmaya Pangeni Bhattarai, highlighted the important role postal stamps play as international ambassadors, stating that the department continues to publish stamps aimed at preserving history, religion, and culture. During the event, Dr. Timilsina was welcomed by the department, and a detailed briefing on its activities was provided.
A discrepancy has arisen after differing statements from the Ministry of Education and the Education Minister regarding the closure of preparatory classes related to higher education starting from the upcoming Baishakh. According to the ministry’s secretary, the government will only close such classes up to Grade 12.
According to a statement released by the ministry’s spokesperson Shivkumar Sapkota on Sunday, “A ministerial decision has been made to completely shut down entrance exam preparatory classes and bridge courses across various school and higher education levels starting from Baishakh 1st.”
However, shortly thereafter, Education Minister and government spokesperson Sasmita Pokharel issued a notice on Facebook clarifying that the decision pertains only to the closure of some additional preparatory classes targeting students up to Grade 12. This created ambiguity for some regarding the status of higher education preparatory classes.
“The line written by the minister yesterday evening on social media is clear,” ministry secretary Chudamani Paudel said. “Preparatory classes will be fully closed up to Grade 12, while classes above this level will only be regulated, not closed.”
Notice Removed from Website
Image Source: Ministry of Education, Science & Technology
The statement issued by the spokesperson on Sunday through social media and official communication channels has since been removed by the ministry, indicating that further clarification on the matter is expected.
The statement noted that such preparatory programs might “negatively impact students’ psychological and educational accessibility and add unnecessary financial burdens,” which motivated the decision to close them. It also mentioned that the relevant District Administration Offices were requested to take legal action against operators running these programs.
Following the removal of the notice, Secretary Paudel remarked, “It has caused some confusion. We will clarify this soon.”
After the government issued a notice to strictly regulate all categories of preparatory classes and bridge courses, the decision was welcomed by some on social media. However, as Minister Pokharel clarified that the decision targets students only up to Grade 12, questions arose about the differing information from the ministry and the minister.
Ambiguity
Education expert Dhananjay Sharma commented that while it appears the ministry decided to close all preparatory classes, limiting it to only Plus Two is not very meaningful.
“If all preparatory classes were closed, it would have helped to curb the commercialization of education and been more effective. But since only classes up to Plus Two are affected, the impact seems minimal,” he said.
Higher education preparatory classes include subjects like medical and engineering, which are popular in Kathmandu and other cities. There are also bridge courses running specifically for Plus Two students.
Sharma noted that the ministry’s communication was relatively clear and considered it appropriate.
“Receiving quality education is the right of students and ensuring this is essential. In the long term, this decision could be effective,” he added.
“Pressure may have been applied on policymakers, and suggestions from various stakeholders might have influenced this outcome,” Sharma further added.
Meanwhile, some institutions operating preparatory classes have reacted that Minister Pokharel’s Facebook notice is clear.
“Minister Pokharel’s notice is clear, but the ministry has stated further clarification will be provided, after which we can respond appropriately,” said Suresh Sharma, director of ‘NAME’, a medical entrance preparatory class in Kathmandu.
Only Regulation for Higher-Level Preparatory Classes
Ministry Secretary Paudel stated that only regulation will be applied to preparatory programs at higher levels.
“Since regulations covering programs above Plus Two are not yet established, preparations are underway to regulate these,” he said. “Higher education preparatory classes will be regulated, while classes below this level will be completely closed.”
However, scholar Sharma analyzed that commercialization of such classes is less at the Plus Two level.
“Classes up to Plus Two fall under the school level. Even if the government makes a decision, it does not have a significant impact at that level,” he remarked.
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Tribhuvan Army Club chased down Bagmati’s target of 209 runs with the contribution of an unbeaten 90 by Kushal Malla, winning by 7 wickets in the PM Cup cricket tournament. Malla secured Army’s victory by striking five sixes in the last two overs when 35 runs were required. While Bagmati suffered their third defeat in four matches, Army has now recorded three wins and one no-result in their four matches.
March 28, Kathmandu – Riding on a magnificent batting display from Kushal Malla, Tribhuvan Army Club maintained their unbeaten run in the PM Cup cricket tournament. In a match reduced to 28 overs, Army achieved Bagmati’s target of 209 runs with just one ball to spare, losing seven wickets in the process. Malla scored an unbeaten 90 off 58 balls, including 3 fours and 8 sixes. Opener Tritaraj Das contributed 54 runs, and Naren Saud added 26.
During the chase, Army reached 118 for 5. From that position, Malla played an exceptional innings, hitting five sixes in the final two overs when 35 runs were needed, himself scoring 33 runs in that period. Against Sandip Lamichhane in the 27th over, Malla struck three sixes, scoring 22 runs.
For Bagmati, Ishan Pande and Bibek Magar took two wickets each, while Rijan Dhakal, Sandip Lamichhane, and Sonu Devkota claimed one wicket apiece.
Batting first after losing the toss, Bagmati posted 208 runs for seven wickets in the allotted 28 overs. Ashutosh Ghirai was the top scorer with 38 runs, supported by Pawan Thapa’s 35 runs. For Army, Naren Saud took 4 wickets, while Shahab Alam, Durgesh Gupta, and Basir Ahmad picked up one wicket each.
In the tournament, Army has played four matches with three wins and one no-result, whereas Bagmati has suffered their third defeat in as many losses in four matches.
The Supreme Court has ordered the government to present the reasons for the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Oli’s wife, Radhika Shakya, filed a petition in the Supreme Court claiming that her husband was being held illegally in detention.
An investigation commission formed to probe the Jenjo uprising recommended that Oli and then Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak be investigated. On March 30, in Kathmandu, a bench led by Justice Meghraj Pokharel of the Supreme Court issued a show-cause order. Questions arose regarding actions taken by Oli in his capacity as Prime Minister during the events of the Jenjo uprising on September 8 and 9.
The government-appointed commission to investigate the Jenjo uprising recommended that Oli be investigated, along with then Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. Following this recommendation, both Oli and Lekhak were arrested on Saturday morning.
Leader of the Parliamentary Party of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, Gyanendra Shahi, presented Prime Minister Balendra Shah with a nine-point demand aimed at the development of Karnali Province. Prime Minister Balendra assured his commitment to the sustainable and inclusive development of Karnali and pledged to provide the necessary support. All Members of Parliament elected from Karnali Province attended the meeting held on March 30 in Kathmandu.
Gyanendra Shahi specifically proposed nine measures focused on improving Karnali’s infrastructure, education, and health sectors. Prime Minister Balendra has also been actively engaging in discussions with lawmakers on provincial matters. Among the demands, Shahi emphasized creating employment opportunities and the proper utilization of local resources and assets.
In response, Prime Minister Balendra reiterated the government’s commitment to Karnali’s sustainable and inclusive development and promised to provide the necessary policy and structural support. The event was attended by all elected MPs from Karnali Province.
The Supreme Court has issued a show cause order regarding the writ petition seeking the release of former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak.
The decision on other petitions seeking the release of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is still pending.
Assistant Spokesperson of the Supreme Court, Nirajan Pandey, said, “A show cause order has been issued in one petition. The order in the other will also be issued today.”
Regarding the show cause order issued for the habeas corpus petition of former Home Minister Lekhak, he added, “With the issuance of the show cause order, the case will now be heard in a joint bench.”
The petition filed by Lekhak’s wife, Yashoda Lekhak, was heard in the bench of Justice Kumar Regmi.
The petition filed by former Prime Minister Oli’s wife, Radhika Shakya, was heard on Monday in the bench of Justice Meghraj Pokharel.
In both petitions, the Prime Minister and the Office of the Council of Ministers were named as respondents.
Image source, Nepal Photo Library/Reuters
Caption, Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were arrested on Saturday morning
Based on the recommendations of the commission led by Gauribahadur Karki to investigate the incidents of September 8 and 9, the government arrested Oli and Lekhak early Saturday morning.
On Sunday, Kathmandu District Court permitted five days of custody for both leaders to facilitate the investigation.
Their lawyers argue that the arrests of Oli and Lekhak were unlawful. Additionally, both leaders’ wives had filed habeas corpus petitions at the Supreme Court on Sunday.
Following the arrest of their chairman, CPN-UML has claimed the process is an act of political revenge and has been holding protests nationwide.
Permission Granted for Custody
Image source, BBC/Bijay Gajmer
Caption, The Supreme Court was also damaged during the Gen-Z protests
The Kathmandu District Court heard the request to hold former Prime Minister Oli and former Home Minister Lekhak in custody for 10 days to facilitate investigation on Sunday.
Former Home Minister Lekhak was physically present in court, while former Prime Minister Oli, hospitalized at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital due to health issues, participated virtually in the proceedings.
Deepak Kumar Shrestha, the information officer of Kathmandu District Court, stated that the court permitted five days of custody according to Clause 14(6) of the Criminal Procedure Code, 2074.
The court order outlined that the custody was necessary for recording the accused’s statements, preparing statements from involved individuals, and reviewing the commission’s report on the incidents of September 8 and 9.
The order also stated, “Considering the weak health condition of accused KP Sharma Oli, this order aims to ensure effective treatment.”
Legal Arguments from Oli’s Team
Image source, Getty Images
The police informed that they had not started recording the leaders’ statements as of Sunday morning. Some legal professionals contend that the recent arrests were made in violation of due process.
Senior advocate Ramesh Badal, who served as Attorney General during Oli’s premiership, has contested the allegations, calling them politically motivated and has demanded the leaders’ release.
He argued, “The Gauribahadur Karki Commission’s report is controversial in itself. It states that neither the Prime Minister nor the ministers gave any directive, nor is there evidence of their involvement in the deadly incidents. However, administrative and police procedures hold the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers accountable.”
Badal added, “Based on the report’s contents, there appears to be no grounds to establish their involvement or hold them culpable at first glance.”
Lawyers representing both leaders also maintain that neither pose a flight risk and that detention is unnecessary.
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