Kathmandu — The Election Commission of Nepal has asked Kathmandu Constituency No. 4 candidate Surendra Bhandari to provide an explanation over remarks that allegedly violated election conduct rules during the ongoing campaign.
Complaint and Code of Conduct Review
Bhandari, a senior advocate and candidate of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), came under scrutiny after a complaint accused him of making statements regarded as offensive to gender and sexual minority communities. The complaint said the remarks may have spread misinformation and encouraged social intolerance.
Election officials said the issue is being reviewed under the Election Code of Conduct, 2082, which bars campaign messaging that harms the dignity, character, or sentiments of particular social groups. The code covers protections for senior citizens, women, persons with disabilities, and sexual and gender minorities.
Election Commission Notice and Deadline
In its notice, the Election Commission reminded candidates that election campaigning must remain respectful and inclusive, regardless of political views. It asked Bhandari to clarify whether his public statements complied with the standards set out in the code of conduct.
The commission has given the candidate three days from the date of receiving the notice to submit a written explanation. Officials said failure to respond, or an explanation deemed unsatisfactory, could lead to further action under election law.
The case comes as election authorities increase scrutiny of campaign rhetoric, underscoring the importance of responsible speech amid a more polarized political environment.
