In Bandukedanda, Ward No. 3 of Chaubise Rural Municipality, Dhankuta, agricultural tourism has developed through water collection and organic farming on land damaged by water scarcity. Tamor Permaculture Farm has been producing 35 varieties of fruits year-round by irrigating through a pond with a capacity of 3.4 million liters and a lifting system. Locals have also constructed ponds for water collection, and with the reduction in migration, life has returned to the village. April 30, Biratnagar.
A few years ago, Bandukedanda, located in the Siran area of Kurule Tenupa in Chaubise Rural Municipality-3, Dhankuta, barely looked like a vibrant village. The land was cracked due to water shortages, springs were drying up, and houses were gradually being vacated, rendering the area increasingly desolate day by day. According to locals, living there was not just difficult—it was a challenge to survive. Today, Bandukedanda has transformed into a green garden, covered with fruit trees including apple, peach, walnut, and avocado.
Alongside the water shortage, arable land began to become barren, which prompted a pattern of migration. The village gradually became deserted. But the seed of change was planted—the solution was water. According to Lokendra Kumar Yakkha, chairman of Tamor Permaculture Farm, the area could not sustain farming or habitation without resolving the water problem. Hence, the concept of collecting rainwater was introduced. Currently, the farm has constructed a pond with a capacity of 3.4 million liters to collect rainwater, which is used to irrigate throughout the year.
The farm’s treasurer, Dheerghman Tamang, states, “This is not just farming, but a practice of producing in collaboration with nature.” The inspiration spreading to the local community and the success of Tamor Permaculture Farm have sparked new hope among residents. As migration declines, people are beginning to return to the village along with water and produce. According to Sneha Shrestha, MIS operator at the National ID and Registration Unit of Chaubise Rural Municipality, in 2021, 56 households had migrated, but only one household had returned to the village.
The story of Bandukedanda is not just that of one village, but an example of the transformation that sustainable thinking, collective effort, and wise use of natural resources can bring about. Ward chairperson Tumsā says, “Every drop of water collected has revived the barren landscape of Bandukedanda.”
Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the International Commission of Jurists have urged the government not to forcibly evict landless individuals from informal settlements. These organizations emphasized the need to respect the right to housing, freedom of expression, and association, while utilizing long-term opportunities to protect human rights. They also recommended that the government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah address 13 key human rights issues. Kathmandu, 18 Baisakh.
Four prominent rights organizations have appealed to the current government to refrain from forcibly evicting landless people from informal settlements. Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the International Commission of Jurists publicly released a letter on Friday expressing this concern. They stressed that any eviction from informal settlements must not violate proper legal procedures, emphasizing the protection of housing rights as well as freedoms of expression and association.
The organizations further highlighted the importance of seizing opportunities to safeguard human rights and the rule of law in the long term. They advised Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s government, which came into power amid widespread demands for change, to work on 13 critical human rights areas. These include transitional justice processes, the rights of women and girls, the rights of Dalits and other minorities, migrant workers’ rights, and the rights of sexual and gender minorities.
Prime Minister Walendra Shah had stated during Buddha Jayanti that true revolution begins with knowledge. However, Gen Z activist Raksya Bam responded by quoting the Prime Minister’s remark and asserting that true revolution starts with compassion. The government’s use of bulldozers to demolish the riverside squatter settlements in Kathmandu and the subsequent relocation of those residents to holding centers has sparked nationwide debate.
On 19th Baisakh in Kathmandu, Prime Minister Walendra Shah (commonly known as Balen) had said that true revolution begins not with ‘k’ but with ‘gy’ (knowledge), emphasizing that it is knowledge that initiates change. In response, activist Raksya Bam wrote, “True revolution starts with ‘k’, Prime Minister, and that ‘k’ stands for compassion.”
The government’s demolition of the riverside settlement without clear and long-term management plans, coupled with forcing those residing in the area into holding centers under difficult circumstances, has triggered criticism and discussions nationwide.
On one hand, the government leadership advocates a philosophical message of knowledge and peace. On the other hand, there is a glaring contradiction in their actions—displacing impoverished and marginalized citizens from their homes and placing them in uncomfortable holding centers. Political and social critics interpret this as a lack of humanity and compassion, mounting an ideological challenge to the Prime Minister’s discourse on knowledge.
Civil society groups and youth activists have been pressuring the government to only proceed with the clearance of settlements after guaranteeing appropriate alternatives and secure housing for displaced residents. This issue continues to provoke extensive public debate from multiple perspectives.
Following the notice to vacate the workers’ quarters at Viratnagar Jute Mills, local residents have become anxious.
Local administration and mills management are preparing to facilitate the removal of encroaching structures.
The Assistant Chief District Officer of Morang confirmed data collection on residents is underway and the process will continue procedurally.
April 30, Viratnagar – The ‘Strike Square’ created for the workers of Nepal’s first factory, Viratnagar Jute Mills, remains a significant locus of the democratic movement.
Prominent leaders like Girija Prasad Koirala and Manmohan Adhikari inspired people from this spot, near the banyan tree, to take to the streets advocating for democracy.
However, present-day residents living around this historically witnessed spot are distressed and uncertain about their future. The local administration’s notice to clear the workers’ quarters has heightened concerns among locals.
Firoz Sheikh, a daily wage laborer, came to the Strike Square without work on Thursday afternoon. He expressed fear of losing his home: “I was born here, and my father worked at the Jute Mills. If we get evicted, where will I go?”
Sixty-two-year-old Jayra Khatun, who also worked at the mills and whose husband was a mill worker, shared similar worries upon receiving the eviction notice. She expressed deep anxiety about where to relocate.
On that day, the square gathered children, women, men, and elderly people united by the common grievance: “The government we voted for is uprooting us from our own homes.”
Kamala Magar lives alone in the Strike Square. Her husband and one son, who worked at the Jute Mills, have passed away, and her elder son is missing. She makes a living by running a small shop but asked for help before demolisher’s actions, saying, “They should give me poison before they remove us. I am ready to die by taking it.”
She continued, “My husband died right here. Where else can I go? We cannot live homeless.”
Residents feel betrayed by leaders who had promised development but now seem intent on taking away their homes. “The youth government arrived promising jobs; my grandchildren and I voted thinking of our future. Now, when they come to evict us, what are we supposed to do and where should we go?” Kamala lamented.
Jute Mills has been completely closed since 2013 (Nepali year 2070 BS). Although the workers were paid their dues before closure, they have not vacated their quarters.
Local resident Badal Chand emphasized that alternative arrangements should be provided before workers’ quarters are cleared. “We will leave only if given another place to live and offered employment,” he stated.
Seventy-year-old Krishna Bahadur Kshetri also opposed leaving the quarters without any alternative.
According to Manoj Khadka, supervisor at Viratnagar Jute Mills, over 400 families currently inhabit the mills’ workers’ quarters, including Strike Square and surrounding areas.
“The government updated the records of all workers; some vacated their quarters but many remain. Additionally, other people have also settled in these areas,” he said. “Some residents are genuine squatters, while others are renting.”
Khadka added that the entire Viratnagar Jute Mills property covers 69 bighas, with 46 bighas allocated to the industrial area and over 14 bighas covering Harinagar Bricks, Strike Square, South Gate, and Daraiyabasti areas.
Informal settlers occupy areas outside the industrial zone, with over 80 small and large makeshift huts on mills’ property. Many long-term residents have not paid rent and show reluctance when asked to do so.
The government is preparing to facilitate removal of encroachers in coordination with mills management.
Saroj Koirala, Assistant Chief District Officer of Morang, said that the data collection of residents at Jute Mills is ongoing and clarified that the settlement will not be removed immediately but handled according to proper procedures.
“We are verifying whether these residents are squatters or not,” he said. “Preparations are underway to clear the settlement, and there will be cooperation between the local administration and mills management, with our assistance.”
The government has implemented a decision to pay civil servants on a bi-monthly basis, disbursing salaries twice a month.
According to officials, salary payments for staff of the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Auditor General began on Wednesday under this new system.
The Office of the Auditor General told us this new practice is expected to have multi-dimensional impacts on the country’s overall economy.
Reactions to the government’s move have varied, with some viewing it positively while others prefer the previous monthly salary system.
The Ministry of Finance mentioned that the pilot project started with federal employees and plans to gradually extend it to provincial levels.
How Will the Salary Be Distributed?
Officials from the Office of the Auditor General said that each month will be divided into two parts for salary disbursement using payment certificates.
“Since some months have 32 days and others 28, there will be slight differences. One half of the salary is sent on the 16th and the other on the 1st. All salary and deductions are split evenly,” explained office spokesperson Deepak Lamichhane.
Shobhakant Paudel, Auditor General, clarified that legally there will be no change in the salary or benefits received by civil servants.
“Payments such as provident funds, citizen investment funds, social security taxes, and insurance, which were previously made monthly, will now be calculated on a 15-day basis and paid in two installments,” he added.
“This change will not reduce or alter the services and benefits available to civil servants.”
Image caption, Officials argue that an active economy benefits all sectors
Expansion from Federal to Provincial Levels
Officials have announced plans to extend this new payment practice, which started at the federal level, to the provinces.
Auditor General Paudel confirmed that necessary reforms to the payment system have already been implemented.
“We chose to begin this practice formally at the federal level to monitor for any possible issues. With government directives, it can be extended constitutionally to the provinces,” he explained.
“Gradually, this system will be implemented at local levels and other government departments across the country.”
Paudel informed that salaries for around 100,000 federal civil servants are currently processed through his office.
“Salaries for federal public servants, including police and military personnel, are also disbursed by this office,” he added.
What Are the Potential Benefits?
Officials believe that bi-monthly salary payments will significantly contribute to invigorating the economy.
They anticipate positive impacts extending from small and medium enterprises to digital commerce sectors.
According to Paudel, bi-monthly payments will boost employee motivation and morale.
Employees will be less likely to need loans mid-month, and it will improve opportunities for leisure activities during bi-weekly rest days.
“This system facilitates timely expenses for employees, creating an environment that supports both spending and recreation,” he commented.
Image source, NRB
Paudel explained that these individual benefits for civil servants will also support the broader economy.
“From an economic perspective, when employees spend their income, it boosts the entire service sector. Small and medium enterprises and businesses will also become more active. Increased cash flow enhances economic dynamism,” he said.
“The government’s analysis shows that timely payments will increase service sector contributions overall, and this growth is certain.”
Officials expect this practice to positively impact the size of the economy as well.
“Approximately 9 to 10 billion rupees will be circulating in the market every 15 days. This will also expand the digital economy,” auditor general Paudel observed.
“With two digital payments per month, employees’ incomes and productivity will increase, producing positive effects across economic activities.”
“More transactions propel the economy forward. If transactions don’t happen and money only accumulates in banks, the economy won’t advance. Therefore, such transactions are essential,” Paudel emphasized.
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
Image caption, The ‘Balen’ government appears to be experimenting with new regulations across sectors including the economy
Diverse Opinions Among Employees
Some civil servants do not perceive a strong need for bi-monthly salary payments.
Especially among junior and mid-level employees, many feel this initiative will not offer significant benefits.
“While an active economy is positive, receiving money more frequently encourages faster spending,” a staff member working in the federal capital told us.
Bhavani Nyaupane Dahal, president of the Nepal Civil Service Organization, shared a similar perspective.
“Some employees have ended up spending their salary more quickly as a result. Also, there were no major issues with monthly payments,” she told us.
Dahal further noted that since complaints about delayed salary disbursements had been common, the new timely payment system may prove beneficial.
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Prime Minister Balendra Shah marked Buddha Jayanti by reflecting on the Four Noble Truths of suffering and expressed his wish for world peace. He stated, “There is suffering, there is a cause of suffering, there is cessation of suffering, and there is a path to cessation of suffering.” Prime Minister Shah emphasized that Buddha’s birth has ensured that Nepal remains a land committed to non-violence and peace, and that true revolution begins with knowledge. (19 Baisakh, Kathmandu)
On this auspicious occasion celebrating the great peace promoter Gautama Buddha, Prime Minister Shah extended wise greetings to all and highlighted on his social media platform Facebook that Buddha’s path of alleviating suffering remains relevant. Recalling the Four Noble Truths, he said, “Our journey must be one of seeking the light of knowledge and following the path toward resolving problems.”
Explaining darkness as the absence of light, Prime Minister Shah remarked that with each step taken toward light, darkness automatically disappears, underscoring the immense importance of knowledge. He further asserted that Buddha’s birth has placed Nepal forever on the decisive side of non-violence and peace. “True revolution does not start with ‘power’ but with ‘knowledge,’ and that ‘knowledge’ is wisdom,” were his words.
Quoting Buddha’s renowned teaching “Appa Dipo Bhava” (Be your own light), Prime Minister Shah conveyed his best wishes to everyone. His message read: “There is suffering, there is a cause of suffering, there is a cessation of suffering, and there is a path leading to its cessation. The path shown by Buddha is the path to end suffering. Darkness is defined as the absence of light; when even a ray of light begins to step in, darkness vanishes automatically. Our journey must be one of seeking the light of knowledge and the pathway to problem-solving. On this occasion of the birth anniversary of the eternal great peace promoter Buddha, I wish for global peace. Blessed is our Nepal, the land where Buddha was born, forever standing for non-violence and peace. True revolution begins not with ‘power’ but with ‘knowledge,’ and that knowledge is wisdom. Wishing everyone enlightened blessings on Buddha Jayanti. Appa Dipo Bhava.”
In Antarctica, climate change has accelerated ice melting, reducing the 10-day period during which mother seals stay with their pups, thereby increasing the risk of pup mortality. Similarly, in Nepal, climate change has led to faster glacier melting in the Himalayas, resulting in increased flooding, landslides, and droughts, which in 2024 caused 249 deaths and displaced thousands. Climate change has also facilitated the spread of dengue, malaria, and waterborne diseases in Nepal, while severely affecting agriculture and livestock farming.
The life cycle of seals in Antarctica provides an extremely sensitive and harsh example of the impacts of environmental change. Many seal species there give birth on the ice, with mother and pup staying together for only about 10 days after birth. Within this brief period, the mother must nurse the pup, help it gain weight, enable it to survive the cold conditions, and teach it essential skills like swimming. However, due to global warming and climate change, ice in Antarctica is melting faster than before, shortening this critical 10-day bonding and nurturing period.
Currently, climate change is significantly impacting the lives of seals in Antarctica. In many cases, mothers are forced to leave earlier than usual, leaving pups who are not yet fully capable vulnerable to falling into water or drowning as ice melts. This issue extends beyond just seal populations—it signals serious disruptions to the global ecosystem. Small changes in Antarctica affect worldwide weather systems, causing irregularities in rainfall, unexpected water and snow events, and droughts. In Nepal, hundreds of such events occur annually due to these climatic shifts. According to environmentalist Bhushan Tuladhar, Nepal is among the most climate-sensitive countries globally, with rapid temperature increases in the Himalayas driving glacier melt, floods, landslides, droughts, and health problems.
The government has mandated a five-member Asset Investigation Commission to examine the assets of public officials ranging from the incumbent Prime Minister to the Under-Secretary level. The commission will collect and verify asset details of public officials from mid-Chaitra 2082 BS to the fiscal year 2062/63 BS. Within 30 days, it will call for allegations against individuals suspected of illegally acquired wealth and conduct confidential investigations.
18 Baishakh, Kathmandu – The government has issued a directive allowing the Asset Investigation Commission to probe the assets of public officials from the current Prime Minister to those holding the rank of Under-Secretary or equivalent. The directive for the commission, formed two weeks ago, was published in the official gazette on Thursday. Notably, the commission’s authority excludes sitting judges and officers of the Nepali Army.
The scope of the investigation does not include sitting or former Presidents and Vice Presidents. However, officials within their secretariats fall under the commission’s jurisdiction. The commission will collect detailed information on assets held domestically and abroad by serving or retired public officials and their families and conduct an inquiry accordingly.
The five-member commission is chaired by former Justice Rajendra Kumar Bhandari. Members include former Chief Justice of the Appellate Court Purushottam Parajuli, former High Court Justice Chandiraj Dhakal, former Deputy Inspector General of Police Ganesh KC, and Chartered Accountant Prakash Lamsal. The commission’s mandate extends from the then Prime Minister down to Assistant Ministers and includes asset verification of all members of the Constituent Assembly.
Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved from prison to house arrest. Military chief Min Aung Hlaing has ordered that she serve the remainder of her sentence under house arrest. Her son, Kim Aris, has stated that there is no proof that his mother is alive and questioned the authenticity of the government-issued photograph.
April 30, Kathmandu. Myanmar’s leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been shifted from prison to house arrest. The 80-year-old Nobel laureate was detained following the military coup in 2021, which removed her from power.
Myanmar’s military chief Min Aung Hlaing said, “The order has been given to complete Aung San Suu Kyi’s remaining sentence at her residence.” Min Aung Hlaing is the leader behind the military takeover.
Leader Aung San Suu Kyi came to power in Myanmar’s government in 2015 during a period of democratic reforms initiated by the then regime. Prior to that, she had been a long-time opponent of military rule and a strong advocate for democracy. She had already been under house arrest for 15 years previously.
A government media outlet in Myanmar released a photo showing Suu Kyi seated with two soldiers. Her son Kim Aris expressed doubts about the military government’s recent announcement, stating there is no concrete evidence that his mother is alive. He also dismissed the government-released photograph as unjustified.
Myanmar’s military government claims that democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains in custody, is under house arrest and that her sentence has been reduced by up to 18 years. State-run media released a photograph showing the Nobel Peace Prize laureate sitting in front of two uniformed soldiers. However, her son, Kim Aris, told the BBC that the image is meaningless. According to him, the photo is four years old, and there is no evidence about whether his mother is still alive. He expressed skepticism about the information released by Myanmar’s military government.
In 2021, Suu Kyi’s government was ousted from power in a military coup. Many have regarded the charges against her as baseless and unfounded. The 80-year-old pro-democracy leader is reportedly being held under house arrest, according to Myanmar’s state broadcaster. Following the 2021 coup, it was believed she was detained in a military prison in the capital, Naypyidaw.
At that time, military leader Min Aung Hlaing stated that the remainder of her sentence would be served under house arrest. Aung San Suu Kyi came to power after democratic reforms in 2015. Prior to that, she played an active role in the pro-democracy movement against decades of military rule, spending more than 15 years under detention over her lifetime.
The state media released a photo showing Suu Kyi alongside two armed guards. Her son, Kim Aris, expressed doubts about the government’s announcement, noting there is no proof his mother is alive. He called the 2022 photograph “ridiculous” and said, “I hope this is true. But I have not seen any evidence. Until I have direct contact with her or independent verification, I will not believe anything.”
Nepal won the toss and chose to bat in the third match against the UAE under the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. Nepali captain Rohit Kumar Paudel announced the decision after winning the toss at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground. Nepal had defeated the UAE in the first match but suffered a loss to Oman in the second game. Kathmandu, April 30.
In the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series, Nepal decided to bat first after winning the toss in their third game against the UAE at the Tribhuvan Cricket Ground. Captain Rohit Kumar Paudel exercised the option following the toss victory. Nepal secured a crucial victory and valuable points by beating the UAE in the opening match of the series. However, in the second game, Nepal’s performance faltered, resulting in a defeat to Oman. Meanwhile, the UAE, after their initial loss to Nepal, bounced back with a win against Oman, boosting their confidence as they aim for another victory against Nepal.
In a jeep accident in Thawang Rural Municipality-1, Rolpa, 20 fatalities have been confirmed, and rescue operations have resumed. Chief District Officer Gangabahadur Kshetri stated that security personnel have been deployed at the accident site, and efforts to identify the bodies and hand them over to relatives will begin today. Due to the remote location of the site, the bodies have been temporarily kept near the recovery area, and preparations are underway to use a helicopter for the rescue mission. April 18, Rolpa.
Search and rescue operations have resumed at the site of the jeep accident in Thawang Rural Municipality-1, Rolpa, which claimed 20 lives. The operation was temporarily suspended on Thursday due to rain and nightfall. According to Chief District Officer Gangabahadur Kshetri of Rolpa, security forces have been deployed at the scene since early morning. He mentioned that identification of the bodies and handing them over to the families will begin today.
The Bolero jeep bearing registration number Lu 1 Ja 4167, traveling from Rukum East towards Jaljala in Thawang Rural Municipality-1, crashed on Thursday afternoon. A total of 20 deaths have been confirmed, including 12 women, 4 men, and 4 children. Samir Kami, 32, from Sisne Rural Municipality-5, Rukum East, was injured and was referred outside Rukum East Hospital last night. Due to the geographically remote location, the bodies have been collected and kept near the accident site. Chief District Officer Kshetri stated that preparations have been made to use a helicopter in the rescue operation. He also confirmed that all bodies have been retrieved and identification will be completed today once the rescue operations are finished.
A 21-year-old man named Sasan Azadvar Jogani has been executed in Iran following his arrest during anti-government protests. He was detained in January on charges of throwing stones and sticks at a minibus carrying government officials. Azadvar was executed at Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan.
His funeral took place on Thursday afternoon in a “secure area,” with government permission allowing only 10 close relatives to attend. The judiciary of the Islamic Republic of Iran stated that Azadvar participated in the protests with the intent to destabilize the government and specifically targeted government officials. According to the judiciary, he had admitted to encouraging his friends to join the demonstrations.
The Asset Investigation Commission established by the government has been granted the authority to investigate the properties of senior political office holders and officials who have been in power since the Vikram Samvat year 2062/63, including former judges and senior military officers. According to a notice published in the Gazette, upon receiving complaints, the commission may submit written requests to relevant agencies to investigate serving military officers, sitting judges, and other officials beyond its immediate jurisdiction. Following Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s assumption of office earlier this month, a five-member commission was formed under the chairmanship of former Supreme Court Justice Rajendra Kumar Bhandari.
Initially, the commission has been empowered for a one-year term to collect, verify, and examine the assets of officials in office from fiscal year 2062/2063 to the end of Chaitra month 2082/83. In a subsequent phase, it is also tasked with investigating the assets of senior officials from Vikram Samvat 2048 to fiscal year 2061/2062. The commission holds jurisdiction over high-ranking officials across all three branches: the executive, judiciary, and legislature.
The commission is actively investigating the assets of Prime Ministers, Ministers, State Ministers, and Assistant Ministers from both the current Government of Nepal and the former Rana regime. Additionally, officials appointed under the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal (2047), the Interim Constitution (2064), and the current Constitution, including heads and staff of constitutional bodies and former judges, fall within the scope of the investigation. The commission also has authority to probe the assets of the Governor, directors, Deputy Governors, Executive Directors, and first-class gazetted or higher-level officials of Nepal Rastra Bank.
The commission is empowered to refer cases to the federal government if, during its investigations, it finds evidence that an official or employee has acquired assets unlawfully. This includes undisclosed property details warranting further inquiry and potential action by the relevant agencies. The notification emphasizes that the commission must operate independently, impartially, and professionally, without succumbing to any pressure or influence.
The Asset Investigation Commission, established by the government, has been granted the authority to examine the assets of high-ranking political officials and employees in power since the Nepali calendar year 2062/63, including former judges and senior military officials.
According to notices published in the Nepal Gazette, the Commission may submit a written request to the relevant authorities to investigate serving military officers, sitting judges, and other officials not currently on duty if a complaint is received.
Following Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s assumption of office, a five-member commission was formed earlier this month, chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Rajendra Kumar Bhandari.
The Commission’s mandate spans an initial one-year term, focusing on asset collection, verification, and investigation of officials serving from fiscal year 2062/63 to the end of Chaitra 2082/83. Subsequently, in a second phase, it is tasked with investigating the assets of high-ranking officials from Bikram Sambat 2048 to fiscal year 2061/62.
Who Can the Commission Investigate?
Image Source, Supreme Court of Nepal
Formed under Section 3 of the 2026 Investigation Act by the Cabinet meeting, the Commission is authorized to investigate assets held inside or outside the country linked to individuals holding public office currently, retired, removed, or related family members.
The Nepal Gazette clarifies the Commission’s duties, stating that when requesting asset details, concerned agencies must provide or confirm the information within 15 days.
The Commission holds jurisdiction over investigating high-ranking officials across the Executive, Judiciary, and Legislature branches.
According to official gazette references, the Commission will investigate the assets of Prime Ministers, ministers, state ministers, and assistant ministers from both the Nepal government and the former His Majesty’s Government.
Similarly, members of parliament, legislative assembly members, constituent assembly members, as well as constitutional body heads and officials appointed under the Constitutions of 2047, the Interim Constitution of 2064, and the current constitution, along with former judges, fall under the scope of investigation.
Retired senior officers of the Nepal Army with first-class or high-level rank, as well as heads and staff of the Nepalese Embassies and diplomatic missions, will also have their assets scrutinized.
The Commission is empowered to investigate the assets of provincial chief ministers, state ministers, assistant ministers, provincial assembly members and officials, district coordination and development committee members, and local-level chief, deputy chief, chairpersons, and vice-chairpersons.
With an amendment published on Baishakh 2 and a subsequent notice this week, the Commission was also granted authority to investigate assets of the Attorney General, Chief Attorney, Parliamentary Service, National Human Rights Service, and health service staff.
Additionally, employees with first-class or equivalent or higher rank in the civil service, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and National Investigation Department are also subject to asset investigation.
Officers at the second-class (Undersecretary) level who have served as heads of those agencies will also come under the Commission’s investigative ambit.
Investigations Extend From Governors to Advisors of the President and Prime Minister
The Commission is also authorized to investigate the assets of the Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, directors of the board, deputy governors, executive directors, and other first-class or higher-ranked staff.
Similarly, heads, directors, executive directors, general managers, managing directors, and CEOs of government-established banks and financial institutions, as well as commissions, establishments, authorities, boards, committees, and centers under the Nepal Government, fall under the Commission’s investigatory scope.
The Commission is empowered to probe assets of officials affiliated with public enterprises wholly or partially owned by the Nepal Government, including officials at grant-receiving universities and establishments, as well as first-class or higher-ranked staff.
Advisors, private secretaries, and personal secretaries appointed by the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice, Speaker, Chairman of the National Assembly, and provincial chief ministers along with the heads of constitutional bodies are also subject to investigation.
The Commission’s mandate includes investigating the illegal concealment or transfer of assets within or outside the country under the names of oneself or relatives.
In investigations relating to suspected assets hidden abroad, the Commission may coordinate and communicate with Nepalese diplomatic missions, Interpol, and other investigative agencies.
Experts suggest that conducting such investigations internationally may face legal and technical challenges, thus recommending Nepal establish mutual legal assistance agreements with the relevant countries.
Among political officials and employees holding public responsibility, the Commission has been directed to identify individuals with a higher likelihood of amassing wealth through corruption and prioritize their investigations.
The Commission must conduct detailed study of increases in family and legally acquired assets, maintaining both personal and public dignity of officials during investigations, which are to be conducted confidentially.
Priority for investigation shall be given to those who have faced departmental actions, show disproportionate economic status, or are heads and staff of offices with direct public interaction like tax, land, and transport administration, or are employed in offices considered high-risk for corruption.
The Commission can collect complaints and, after issuing a public notification for 30 days, request individuals within its jurisdiction to provide information, evidence, or details regarding any allegedly illegally acquired assets.
Government Retains Authority to Dissolve the Commission
Image Source, Getty Images
If investigations reveal factual and proven instances of illegal asset acquisition by officials or employees, the federal government is empowered to recommend further inquiries and actions to the relevant authorities, including examinations related to undisclosed assets.
The Commission is chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Rajendra Kumar Bhandari and includes members such as former Appellate Chief Justice Purushottam Parajuli, former High Court Justice Chandiraj Dhakal, former Deputy Inspector General of Police Ganesh KC, and former Institute of Chartered Accountants Nepal President Prakash Lamsal.
Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla administered the oath of office and secrecy to Chairperson Bhandari last Wednesday, who then administered oaths to the members, after which the Commission officially commenced its activities.
The notice underscores that the Commission shall operate independently, impartially, and professionally, free from any pressure or influence. It is permitted to use reports, data, and recommendations submitted previously by other commissions, committees, or agencies as references during investigations.
The Nepal Government retains the right to dissolve the Commission if deemed necessary. Upon dissolution or completion of its task, all records must be handed over to the Commission Against Corruption.
If the Commission’s chairperson, members, or secretariat staff violate the Constitution or laws or fail to act honestly, the Nepal Government can dismiss them according to regulations.
The Prime Minister and Cabinet office will manage human resources for the Commission, with an initial plan to allocate a staff of 38 personnel.
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