SC Reschedules Hearing on Home Minister Lamichhane Case

The Supreme Court of Nepal has scheduled the continuation of the hearing against Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane, as the session on Friday did not reach a conclusion. The joint bench of Judges Sapana Pradan Malla and Sharanga Subedi presided over the proceedings.

The writ, filed by Advocate Anupama Bhattarai, seeks the suspension of Lamichhane. The petition details charges against him, including loans he has taken, and challenges a letter from the Attorney General’s Office, which asserts that there is no case of cooperative fraud against Lamichhane.

The respondents named in the writ include the Attorney General’s Office, Attorney General Dinmani Pokharel, and Home Minister Lamichhane. Bhattarai argued that Lamichhane’s dual roles as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister could unduly influence the investigation, thereby violating principles of natural justice.

As a result, Bhattarai has requested an interim order to suspend Lamichhane from his ministerial position pending the investigation. This request has been directed at the Government of Nepal, the Prime Minister, and the Council of Ministers.

The Supreme Court will continue the hearing in the coming days, as the case garners significant public and political attention.