KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has submitted a 120-page investigation report to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) concerning the incident of a minor being held against her will.
The NHRC initiated the investigation using its discretionary powers after the government decided not to prosecute the case.
A team, including the Child Welfare Officer of KMC, delivered the report to NHRC Secretary Murari Prasad Kharel at the commission’s central office in Pulchowk.
During the review, Kharel said the state power should not be misused in cases of human rights violations. He pledged to conduct an impartial and thorough investigation.
The investigation was triggered when the state chose not to prosecute Lumbini Province MP Rekha Kumari Sharma, who allegedly held a minor hostage and forced her to work at her residence.
In response, the NHRC requested documents from KMC, which compiled and submitted the report within three days.
Dhiraj Joshi, a member of KMC Mayor’s Secretariat, raised concerns about Attorney General Ramesh Badal’s involvement in the case, citing a conflict of interest.
Joshi pointed out that Badal previously defended MP Sharma before becoming Attorney General. Now, his role in the decision not to prosecute has sparked controversy.
“The case was not prosecuted because the person who argued in the same case against the Metropolitan City is currently holding the position of Attorney General,” Joshi said.
Both the Government Attorney’s Office in Kathmandu and the High Government Attorney’s Office in Patan had opted not to pursue prosecution.
However, KMC filed a complaint on June 12, 2024, accusing Sharma of crimes against children and enslavement.
The National Human Rights Commission has committed to a detailed investigation and fair legal process to determine the appropriate actions against those responsible.
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