Writ Petition Filed Against Gandaki Chief Minister’s Appointment

A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court seeking the annulment of Khagaraj Adhikari’s appointment as Gandaki Chief Minister. Former Chief Minister Surendraraj Pandey filed the petition, arguing the appointment was unconstitutional and demanding his own continuation in the role. The court will hear the petition on Wednesday.

The decision to move to court came after a meeting of top Congress leaders, concluding that the government formation was unconstitutional. Adhikari assumed office on Sunday, supported by a majority in the provincial assembly, including Speaker Krishna Prasad Dhital. However, the Congress argued against his appointment, citing it as unconstitutional.

Adhikari presented support from 31 members, meeting the minimum majority requirement in the 60-member assembly. Despite objections from the Congress, Province Head Dilliraj Bhatta appointed Adhikari as Chief Minister as per constitutional provisions.

This move has stirred controversy, especially considering the precedent set by the Supreme Court last year when it annulled a government in Koshi province for similar constitutional breaches.