Kaski District Court withdraws organized crime and money laundering charges against Rabi Lamichhane
KATHMANDU– The legal proceedings surrounding the Suryadarshan Cooperative embezzlement case took a significant turn after the Kaski District Court approved the government’s request to withdraw the organized crime and money laundering charges filed against Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane and several others.
A single bench led by Judge Himlal Belbase granted permission to amend the original indictment following an application submitted by the District Government Attorney’s Office, Kaski. The amendment removes the two serious charges, allowing the case to move forward solely under the allegation of cooperative fraud.
The government, acting as the plaintiff, has named Gitendra Babu (GB) Rai, Chhabilal Joshi, Rabi Lamichhane, and others as defendants in the case, which centers on the alleged misappropriation of funds belonging to depositors of the Suryadarshan Cooperative.
Court’s Reasoning Behind Dropping the Charges
In its order, the court cited Section 36 of the National Criminal Procedure Code, 2017, which allows amendments to indictments when necessary for the fair and effective handling of a case. The bench emphasized that the primary objective of the judicial process is to ensure the timely and smooth return of misappropriated cooperative savings to affected depositors.
The court noted that retaining the organized crime and money laundering charges could create legal complications, potentially slowing down the process of reaching settlements or returning funds to victims. By removing these charges, the court believes the prosecution can focus on the core issue—cooperative fraud—without procedural obstacles.
This decision aligns with the government’s argument that simplifying the charges would help expedite compensation and reduce delays for depositors who have been waiting for financial relief.
Reaction From Rabi Lamichhane’s Family
Following the court’s decision, Rabi Lamichhane’s brother expressed his happiness and relief through a Facebook post.
In his message, he congratulated supporters and stated that the court had finally freed Lamichhane from what he described as a cycle of political retaliation. He encouraged everyone to move forward with greater responsibility and caution, adding a prayer for blessings from Lord Pashupatinath.
