Nepali Congress leader and former minister Deepak Khadka’s detention has come under judicial scrutiny after the Supreme Court ordered key documents to be produced. The move raises concerns over legal procedure in an ongoing money laundering investigation.
A joint bench of Justices Mahesh Sharma Paudel and Sunil Kumar Pokharel on Wednesday directed authorities to submit relevant case files, while scheduling the next hearing for Friday, April 10.
Court Seeks Clarification on Custody Decision
The Supreme Court has asked the Kathmandu District Court to provide a written explanation regarding Khadka’s continued detention. The order requires submission of details by Thursday evening, focusing on how custody extensions were granted.
According to the Department of Money Laundering Investigation, Khadka’s remand had been extended by the district court. However, the apex court noted gaps in documentation related to the second extension of his custody.
Missing Documents Raise Due Process Concerns
The bench observed that key documents justifying further detention and additional investigation records were not presented. It has instructed the Office of the Attorney General to obtain and submit the missing materials.
The court has also ordered that files from the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) be produced on the day of the hearing, citing their absence so far.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Khadka was arrested on March 29 by a team from the Central Investigation Bureau. Authorities have been probing allegations linked to financial irregularities and potential money laundering.
The case has drawn political and legal attention, as questions grow over procedural transparency and the handling of high-profile corruption investigations in Nepal.
