Nepali Congress keeps mum amidst controversy surrounding its ministers

Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress party has decided to remain silent regarding the controversial ministers in both the federal and provincial governments. Concerns have been raised about Arju Rana Deuba and Deepak Khadka in the federal government formed under the leadership of UML Chair KP Sharma Oli. Arju is alleged to have connections to the fake Bhutanese refugee scam and the Tikapur land cases. Meanwhile, Khadka, who is also an investor in a hydropower company, is accused of illegally acquiring an additional 9 ropanis of land while renting 3 ropanis from the central office of Nepal Scouts in Lainchour.

Similarly, Saroj Thapa, also known as Roz Rana, who was convicted of hooliganism, has become a minister in the Lumbini province government. Additionally, Badshah Kurmi is facing allegations of involvement in the suspicious death case of Nirmala Kurmi from Parsapur in Nepalganj-17. A protest led by Rubi Khan, a rights activist from Banke, is ongoing, claiming that Badshah has not been investigated due to political influence. The inquiry committee formed by the Ministry of Home Affairs had recommended an investigation into Badshah.

Saroj Thapa, who is a minister in Lumbini, has been arrested multiple times on charges of gangsterism. There is increasing dissatisfaction within the Congress party over appointing a person with a controversial image and criminal background as a minister.

Congress leader Min Bishwakarma stated that there are no plans to recall ministers with controversial backgrounds at this time. "Discussions have been ongoing, and there have been many complaints. But for now, we have no option but to listen to the complaints and consider them," Bishwakarma said. "Next time, we will ensure that such people are not appointed as ministers."

He added, "The law does not specify disqualification; if the law does not mandate removal, we will face a writ petition tomorrow. Sometimes, morality in politics should have been addressed from the beginning," Bishwakarma told Ratopati.

Bishwakarma noted that while selecting candidates for elections, there is often an emphasis on choosing those with a clean image, yet controversial figures sometimes emerge. "Even candidates with clean images can face charges after winning. We strive to appoint ministers who are both clean and competent, but often one appears clean while the other appears tainted," Bishwakarma said.