Govt to revise controversial legal proposals: Home Minister
Minister Lekhak clarified that five key legal codes are under consideration for amendment: the Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, Civil Code, Civil Procedure Code, and the Sentencing Act.
KATHMANDU: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has urged the public not to assume that harmful provisions will be introduced in the law, assuring that the government is committed to careful review and necessary revisions of all proposed legal changes.
Speaking to journalists following a meeting of the Bill Committee under the Council of Ministers at Singha Durbar on Tuesday, Minister Lekhak clarified that five key legal codes are under consideration for amendment: the Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, Civil Code, Civil Procedure Code, and the Sentencing Act.
He addressed public concerns surrounding controversial issues, such as proposed changes related to polygamy, the legal age of marriage, provisions on anticipatory bail, and presidential pardons or sentence alterations based on government recommendations. He emphasized that these sections require further discussion and revision.
The committee has decided to form a sub-committee within the Bill Committee to thoroughly address these issues. The sub-committee will engage in consultations with the relevant ministries and other stakeholders before presenting a revised version of the bill.
Minister Lekhak acknowledged widespread criticism regarding the perception that the government was seeking to legalize polygamy. However, he assured that the government, through the Bill Committee, will review, amend, and refine the proposals before moving forward.
Highlighting public concern, especially regarding the polygamy provision, Minister Lekhak affirmed that the Bill Committee will address these issues appropriately.
A coordination sub-committee, led by the Secretary of the Bill Committee and including representatives from the Ministry of Law, the Law Commission, and the Office of the Attorney General, has been formed to oversee the amendment process.
He reiterated that the government remains responsive to public concerns and committed to improving the proposed laws through inclusive and transparent discussions.
