KATHMANDU: Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut has said the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has been gradually strengthening the criminal justice system, but stressed the need for more scientific investigation and prosecution. He made the remarks during the 75th founding anniversary of the AGO.
Speaking at the event, CJ Raut said that justice is not only about orders and verdicts but also about their implementation. Ensuring easy access to justice, he added, would improve the prosecution process. He highlighted that citizens now ask questions while society responds, and urged that this dynamic should be embraced constructively.
“If investigations are not thorough, deep, and effective, justice cannot reach the right place,” CJ Raut said, underscoring the need for a civilized society to uphold the light of justice in every decision.
Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anil Kumar Sinha said that only objective and detailed investigations conducted according to law and procedure would succeed. He wished the AGO continued improvement in prosecution and professional excellence.
Senior Supreme Court Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla highlighted that prosecution must be reformed to focus on the public and ensure justice for victims. She added that the Constitution gives the responsibility to decide whether to proceed with a case.
Justice Malla also noted the importance of addressing the demands of the Gen-Z generation seeking reforms, as courts navigate complex circumstances. She stressed proper use of digital technology and tackling digital crimes in the new era.
Attorney General Sabita Baral said the AGO has continuously worked to improve the criminal justice system over seven decades, emphasizing the higher responsibility of government lawyers in prosecution.
Public Service Commission Chair Madhav Prasad Regmi raised questions on whether the AGO’s role as government legal advisor affects prosecutions. He also noted that over 50 percent of district-level government lawyers are women.
Nepal Bar Association President Prof. Dr. Vijay Prasad Mishra called for justice to reach the poor and wished success in reforming criminal prosecution, encouraging focus on public-centric justice.
Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki stated that the rule of law and prosecution system are being organized and made tech-friendly. He highlighted effective collaboration between the AGO and Nepal Police.
Deputy Attorney General Sanjiv Raj Regmi noted that the AGO has continued reform in criminal prosecution and informed that operations have resumed after repairs following damages to 19 offices on 23–24 Bhadra this year.
At the event, Senior Deputy Attorney General Achyut Mani Nyaupane was honored as the ‘Best Government Lawyer,’ and 13 government lawyers and staff received awards for outstanding performance. CJ Raut presented the awards and also launched a special anniversary edition published by the AGO.
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