Probe panel gets 5-day extension in Sudhan case
Officials said the extension was approved after the panel requested additional time, citing the need to complete remaining procedures and finalize its findings.
KATHMANDU: A government-formed probe committee investigating former Home Minister and Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Sudhan Gurung has been granted a five-day extension to complete its work.
The committee’s initial tenure expired on Monday. Officials said the extension was approved after the panel requested additional time, citing the need to complete remaining procedures and finalize its findings.
According to committee chair Achyut Prasad Bhattarai, the extension has come into effect from today. He expressed confidence that the remaining tasks would be completed within the extended deadline. “We will finish the remaining work and submit the report on time,” Bhattarai said.
The committee had already recorded the statement of the former minister last week and has been collecting documents and evidence from various institutions. Some offices have been re-contacted for additional information, although all requested details have not yet been received.
The three-member panel was formed on May 11 under the leadership of former High Court judge Achyut Prasad Bhattarai. Its members include Auditor General Shobhakant Poudel and Joint Attorney General Achyutmani Neupane.
The investigation mandate covers allegations related to Gurung’s property holdings, shares in companies linked to businessman Deepak Bhatta (who is currently in custody), land ownership beyond legal ceilings, and other disputed real estate transactions.
Gurung served as Home Minister from March 27 but resigned on April 22 following rising controversy after his asset disclosures triggered public and political scrutiny.
