Election authorities in Siraha have directed Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal (JSP-Nepal) candidate Asheshwar Yadav, who is contesting from Siraha Constituency-3, to submit a written clarification within three days after police detained him with cash during the election silence period.
The Office of the Chief Election Officer in Siraha issued the instruction after reviewing initial documents related to the incident in which Rs 487,000 was recovered from a vehicle carrying Yadav and several others. Chief Election Officer Shriprakash Upreti said the individuals involved have been given a deadline of three days to provide an explanation.
“We have reviewed the available documents and provided three days for them to submit a clarification,” Upreti said. “Further action will proceed based on the explanation and evidence they provide.”
Cash and Vehicle Seized for Investigation
Authorities confirmed that the five individuals detained during the incident have been released. However, the recovered cash and the vehicle involved in the case have been seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
Officials said further action will be taken in accordance with Nepal’s election laws after reviewing the clarification and the investigation findings.
Detention During Security Check Near Nepal–India Border
Police detained the group late Tuesday night during a security check near the Nepal–India border in Madar. Officers stopped a Scorpio vehicle (Pra.2–02–001 Cha 087) that was traveling toward the Siraha district headquarters. During the inspection, police recovered Rs 487,000 in cash from the vehicle.
Along with Asheshwar Yadav, those detained included Shyam Kumar Yadav (32) of Bishnupur-5, Laxmipur; Rampravesh Yadav (35); Bapendra Kumar Yadav (40); and driver Jitendra Kumar Mahato (28) of Naraha-3.
Election Law on Silence Period Violations
Nepal’s election code of conduct prohibits candidates or political parties from engaging in financial transactions or activities that could influence voters during the election silence period. Under the Election Offences and Punishment Act, 2017, the Election Commission can impose fines on individuals found violating the rules.
If a candidate fails to pay the imposed fine within six months, the commission may declare the individual ineligible to contest elections for up to six years, according to the law. Authorities said the investigation into the case is ongoing.
