KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress (NC) is caught in a quagmire amid conflict between two factions within the party regarding whether or not to suspend its leader and former Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand, who was arrested in the fake Bhutanese refugee scam.

The party leadership, particularly NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba does not deem it necessary to suspend Khand despite mounting pressure from the Shekhar Koirala-Gagan Thapa faction.

NC leader Khand, who is also a former Home Minister, was arrested from his Maijubahal residence in Kathmandu on May 10.

Dr. Koirala and Thapa have publicly voiced their position on the alleged involvement of NC leader Khand in the fake refugee scam, emphasizing the need of suspending him and taking strong action against anyone implicated in the scam.

Koirala strongly expressed his dismay over the alleged involvement of NC leaders and other high-ranking individuals in the fake Bhutanese refugee scam, describing it as a shameful act.

He expressed grave concern over the current situation, highlighting that the state of the Nepali Congress was even more critical.

Referring to the incident involving fake refugees and the involvement of NC leaders, Koirala emphasized that it has not only impacted the reputation of the Nepali Congress but has also disappointed the Nepali people.

He strongly asserted that such a shameful and anti-national act should not be concealed or covered up and expressed concern about the potential consequences for the NC party if they attempt to hide the truth.

Dr. Koirala also acknowledged that the party is currently facing a challenging situation, which not only exacerbates the country’s condition but also attracts international attention.

Recognizing the complexities of the case, he highlighted the need for the police to be more proactive in investigating and taking necessary action against anyone found guilty, regardless of their affiliations.

Leader Koirala emphasized the importance of ensuring that those responsible face appropriate punishment for any wrongdoing committed under any pretext.

NC General Secretary Thapa also emphasized the principle that individuals holding positions should be automatically suspended upon facing accusations.

He argued that it is imperative to maintain the integrity and credibility of the party by promptly taking action against accused individuals, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

Thapa expressed the view that if the tradition does not exist, it should be challenged and changed.

He asserted that wrongdoings should not be justified or allowed to persist under the guise of tradition.

While individuals within the party may be prone to corruption, he firmly believed that the party itself should remain free from corruption and uphold its principles.

Thapa advocated for the immediate suspension of Khand from the party and emphasized that no party should interfere in the investigation process, underscoring the need for impartiality.

He asserted that regardless of how deeply the roots of the issue may have spread, action should be taken against anyone found responsible for their actions.

However, leaders from the establishment side contend that there was no immediate necessity to suspend Khand, as they argue that no formal charges or prosecution have been filed against him.

They maintain the stance that until there is concrete evidence or legal proceedings initiated against Khand, suspension should not be considered.