Attorney General Pokharel Defends Response to SC on Lamichhane Case

Attorney General Dinmani Pokharel has submitted a detailed rebuttal to the Supreme Court regarding the petition seeking the suspension of Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane over alleged involvement in a cooperative fraud case. In his response, Pokharel contends that the petition lacks substantive grounds and should be dismissed.

The petition, filed by Advocate Anupam Bhattarai, is currently being deliberated by a bench comprising Justices Sapana Pradhan Malla and Saranga Subedi since June 21. The Attorney General argues that the petitioner fails to demonstrate a direct stake in the matter or the ability to represent affected parties adequately.

Furthermore, Pokharel defended the actions of his office, clarifying that disclosures regarding Lamichhane were made in accordance with Nepal’s Right to Information Act and constitutional provisions, emphasizing that no ‘clean chit’ was issued prematurely.

“The petitioner’s claims regarding the cooperative fraud case lack a clear connection to public interest or constitutional dispute,” stated Pokharel in his submission. “Such petitions should only be entertained when the petitioner can prove a genuine public concern or legal standing on behalf of affected parties.”

The Supreme Court is set to resume hearings on July 2, where a final decision on the matter is expected following the conclusion of arguments.