KATHMANDU: The investigation on corruption cases related to the Chhauni-based Birendra Military Hospital, Panchkhal Shikshyalaya, and other places has brought commotion as it’s likely to put the stars of the generals are likely to be in trouble.
NA has initiated a court of inquiry against Brigadier General Prayog Jung Rana on the Chhauni based Birendra Military Hospital corruption allegations. Together with the case, the inquiry on Paanchkhal Shikshalaya frauds has also been started.
The corruption allegations and the ‘rivalry’ among the generals are likely to influence their promotion to take in August.
With the good link in the senior ranks including among the former COAS, Brig. General Rana was known as the lucky general to entertain lucrative postings. He was expecting other good opportunities towards the end of this year, however, the probe has put him into difficulties.
NA has introduced a system of halting promotion for a year even in instances like the warning or minor punishments from the military court.
Brig. General Rana is not the only officer to face difficulty. Another Brig. General Arun Neupane has to face difficulty due to the new provisions related to ‘halting promotion’ in case of any punishment verdict coming from the military court.
Brig. General Neupane has got the cautionary warning from the court for his ‘clash’ with the officials of his batch during the Chhauni based Military Hospital’s anniversary. This nominal punishment has obstructed his posting and promotion for a year.
Another senior officer, Brigadier General Baburam Shrestha has also undergone difficulties due to similar provisions.
Shrestha was charged with not acting as per the provisions to stop the irregularities in the personnel recruitment in Siraha.
Though the court’s verdict is like a minor warning it stalls the promotion for a year. Shrestha was in the queue to be promoted to the post of Major General in Oct-Nov.
Had it not been due to the court’s ‘warning’, Neupane could already have been the Maj. General. But a small error on judgment deterred the feather for some time, letting Nagendra KC the opportunity. Earlier, Nagendra KC, who is retiring in Nov., was junior to Neupane.
In the meantime, the general of account Dhruba Khatri received the insignia of the post of Major General.
Some more one-star generals are getting promoted in August. Brigadier Generals Prem Shahi, Bigyan Dev Pandey, and Binaya Bikram Rana are said to be in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd role of promotion to the post of Major General.
According to the sources, Brig. General Babu Ram Shrestha’s promotion is deterred by a year. Shrestha was in the 4th number for promotion.
Similarly, another general who is in the USA for the Defense Course is likely to face some action on arrival at Kathmandu. Brigadier General Surendra Rawal is alleged of abusing the power by not enforcing the policy directives of the COAS.
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