Ministry directs action against CAN over non-cooperation in CIAA probe

KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Youth and Sports has directed the National Sports Council (NSC) to initiate necessary action against the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), citing its failure to cooperate in an ongoing investigation related to a complaint filed with the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA).

According to the ministry, a letter was sent to the NSC on Baisakh 14, instructing it to seek a final clarification from CAN and proceed with required disciplinary measures.

The letter was officially registered at the council on Baisakh 23, sources said.

The issue stems from complaints filed at the CIAA on Mangsir 7, 2081, and Falgun 12, 2081 (BS), following which the ministry formed investigation committees through both secretary-level and ministerial decisions.

The committees were tasked with advancing the inquiry process, but CAN allegedly failed to provide the required documents and records.

The ministry has stated that under Section 28 (Ch) and (Da) of the Sports Development Act, 2077 BS, concerned bodies are legally obligated to submit records and documents requested by the ministry or the council. However, CAN is said to have ignored these legal provisions.

As per the ministerial decision of Baisakh 14, CAN has been issued a final warning, with instructions to seek clarification on why disciplinary action or suspension should not be taken against the association.

The ministry has further stated that action, including possible suspension, can be initiated under Section 29 of the Sports Development Act, 2077 BS, if CAN fails to respond satisfactorily or does not provide the required documents.

If CAN does not submit a convincing response, the ministry has directed the NSC to move forward with the necessary disciplinary process.