Corruption Case Against Former PM Madhav Kumar Nepal Over Patanjali Land Scandal Put on Hold

Kathmandu. The corruption case against former Prime Minister and Coconvener of the Nepal Communist Party (NCP), Madhav Kumar Nepal, concerning the land misappropriation scandal involving Patanjali Yogpeeth and an Ayurvedic company in Nepal, has been placed on the 'not to be heard' list.

The case was scheduled for hearing on Tuesday before the bench comprising Special Court Chairman Sudarshan Dev Bhatta and Judges Hemanta Rawal and Dilliratna Shrestha.

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) filed the case against 93 defendants, including Nepal, in the Special Court on Jestha 22 regarding the Patanjali land case.

The CIAA has sought a fine and penalty of NPR 185.85 million against Nepal. The CIAA alleges that Nepal, in his capacity as the then Prime Minister, abused his position to transfer public government property for personal and institutional interests and was involved in corrupt activities.

The charge sheet claims that the cabinet led by Nepal, through a meeting on Falgun 6, 2066 BS, approved the transaction of land exceeding the ceiling limit for Patanjali. It is alleged in the charge sheet that Nepal, through a direct order on Magh 18, 2066 BS, facilitated the sale and exchange of land exceeding the ceiling limit for Patanjali.

A case was filed against 93 individuals for illegal sale and misappropriation of 314 ropani, 15 aana, 2 paisa, 1 dam of land due to corruption, with the CIAA seeking a penalty of NPR 185.85 million.