KATHMANDU: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday visited Bhairahawa Prison to meet Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chairperson Rabi Lamichhane, who is in custody on charges of embezzling millions of rupees from a cooperative.
The visit followed a series of controversial media reports in recent days about Lamichhane’s health and living conditions behind bars. The NHRC delegation included member Lily Thapa, Lumbini Province Chief Hari Gyawali, and Rima Bisi of the Informal Sector Service Center (INSEC).
The team directly inspected Block No. 4, where Lamichhane is being held. According to Commissioner Thapa, the cell’s window had been shut, and two fans were placed inside—one large fan typically used at wedding functions and another stand fan.
The team noted severe overcrowding in the prison. Although Bhairahawa Prison has a capacity for 200 inmates, around 650 prisoners are currently being accommodated there in cramped conditions.
Commissioner Thapa said such overcrowding amounted to a violation of basic human rights. “Housing 630 people in a space meant for 200 is wrong both legally and from a humanitarian perspective,” she said. “It is clear the government has failed to build facilities in proportion to the prison population.”
The delegation directed prison authorities to ensure Lamichhane’s rights to movement, reading materials, and visitation. They also urged the government and the Home Ministry to take measures such as opening the window in his block, improving toilet facilities, and transferring him if necessary, in accordance with court orders.
“If an inmate requests a transfer, the government must clarify why it cannot or will not be done,” Thapa said, stressing that the Department of Prison Management should act immediately to improve conditions.
The NHRC also drew the government’s attention to security concerns at prisons in border areas, calling for a reduction in overcrowding and the provision of facilities in line with human rights standards.
Comment