Wednesday, August 19th, 2026

Jagdish Kharel challenges allegations, vows to quit politics if link to Smart Telecom proven



KATHMANDU: Former Minister for Communications and Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Jagdish Kharel has said he will retire from politics if his involvement in the Smart Telecom case is proven.

Speaking during Monday’s House of Representatives meeting, he objected to being linked with alleged irregularities in Smart Telecom, calling the claims baseless.

“I have no involvement in the Smart Telecom case. If my involvement is proven, I will quit politics,” Kharel said.

He said he was unfairly dragged into the controversy even while he was in Switzerland after informing Speaker DP Aral and party chair Rabi Lamichhane.

Kharel clarified that he had not participated in any meetings related to the Smart Telecom case nor processed any related files.

He also challenged the media reports linking him to the case, saying that if the allegations cannot be substantiated, the concerned media outlets should face consequences, including closure.

Publish Date : 11 May 2026 21:41 PM

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