Maoist MP demands tougher corruption sentences; Others favor shorter prison terms

Kathmandu, September 12 — The State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives has discussed the issue of imposing short prison sentences for corrupt individuals. During a meeting on Thursday, committee members debated an amendment bill to the Corruption Prevention Act, 2002. They argued that, due to overcrowding in jails and the cost to the government for imprisoning individuals, it may be more effective to impose financial penalties as restitution and reduce prison sentences.

In the meeting, Secretary of Ministry of Law Fanindra Gautam recommended against lengthy prison terms for corrupt individuals, citing increased government expenses.

UML MP Raghuji Pant supported this suggestion, noting that the Director General of Prisons had reported overcrowding issues, with 28,000 inmates in facilities designed for 16,000. He emphasized that long prison terms could be detrimental to the country.

MP Rabi Lamichhane argued that, given that corruption is an economic crime, the focus should be on substantial financial penalties rather than extended prison sentences. Gautam noted that the National Assembly had extended the maximum prison term from 10 years to 15 years.

However, Maoist MP Durga Rai called for a doubling of the financial penalty and stricter punishments. She emphasized that the proposed amendments should be carefully considered, suggesting that those involved in corruption above Rs 10 crore should face life imprisonment. She also proposed using open prisons for those who cannot be accommodated in regular jails.