Former Chief Justice Rana seeks security

KATHMANDU: Former Chief Justice (CJ) Cholendra Shumsher Rana has requested security protection following his arrest and subsequent release.

He submitted a formal request to the Kathmandu Valley Police Office in Ranipokhari, seeking security for himself and his family. The application was filed on his behalf by his son, Sachindra Shumsher Rana.

According to the application, former CJ Rana said he became aware of the security risks he faced only after his arrest. Police had arrested him from his residence at around 2:00 a.m. on Saturday and returned him home at around 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.

The application states that he perceives a serious threat to his safety and that of his family in view of the country’s current situation and security-related concerns raised through social media and other media outlets.

The application states, “I feel an increased sense of insecurity due to factors such as the responsibilities I previously held within state institutions and the judicial decisions I delivered while serving as the head of the judiciary. I also became aware of certain matters after arriving at this office. Therefore, I have submitted this application requesting additional security.”

Cholendra has urged the state to pay special attention to the security of his residence, family, and personal safety. Although police arrested him from his residence on Saturday night, they said the action was taken for his own protection. However, authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific source or nature of the threat against him.

AIG Sushil Singh Rathor, chief of the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, said additional police personnel have already been deployed for Cholendra’s security. He said police are also investigating the group that allegedly issued threats against Cholendra.

Regarding the circumstances in which Cholendra, who was reportedly considered a potential target, was taken into custody, Rathor said, “Actions inevitably trigger reactions.”

Meanwhile, Kathmandu Chief District Officer Ishwar Raj Paudel said his office had not yet received a formal request for security. He said that if such a request is received, it will be processed in accordance with the established procedure.