KATHMANDU: The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has issued arrest warrants against 20 individuals, including Rita Singh Baidya, the former Chairman of Nepal Children’s Association, in connection with the Bal Mandir land scam case.

Rita Singh Baidya, who chaired the organization for approximately 27 years, is among those facing warrants issued by the Kathmandu District Court on Thursday.

The CIB is probing allegations of fraud related to the case.

Baidya, along with members of the working committee and employees, stands accused of involvement in fraudulent activities concerning the Bal Mandir land.

In the latest development, Baidya has been accused of subleasing the Bal Mandir land in 2072, extending the contract with Brihaspati by an additional 43 years beyond its original maturity date.

Under this arrangement, the organization has been receiving an annual payment of Rs 90 lakhs from Brihaspati.

Subsequently, Brihaspati transferred five ropanis of the land to an Indian Board to establish a school, collecting Rs 60 lakhs annually.

Rita Singh Baidya, daughter of Ganesh Man Singh and sister of Nepali Congress leader Prakash Man Singh, faces serious allegations in this scandal.