Senior Advocate Argues Arrest Warrant Against Former PM KP Sharma Oli is Prima Facie Unconstitutional

Kathmandu. Senior Advocate Tikaram Bhattarai asserted that issuing an urgent arrest warrant and subsequently arresting former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is prima facie unconstitutional. Arguing in the hearing of Oli's habeas corpus petition, Bhattarai stated that the cabinet cannot decide to arrest anyone.

He said, 'Arresting someone selectively based on the Gauri Bahadur Karki Commission report is illegal.' Bhattarai demanded that the judge order the opposition to submit a written response within 24 hours. The hearing on Oli's habeas corpus petition is ongoing in the bench of Supreme Court Justice Meghraj Pokharel.

Earlier, while arguing the habeas corpus writ, former Attorney General and Senior Advocate Ramesh Badal had argued that Oli should be released on personal guarantee. Badal also stated that the opposition should be asked for a written response within 24 hours.

Radhika Shakya, on behalf of Oli, filed a petition on Sunday demanding immediate release, claiming that Oli was illegally detained for investigation into the incidents of the 'Jangi Andolan' (protest) on Bhadra 23 and 24.

The Investigation Commission had recommended prosecuting them, holding them responsible for the crackdown during the 'Jangi Andolan' on Bhadra 23 and 24. Based on the Investigation Commission's report, the current government arrested the then-Prime Minister Oli on Saturday.