RSP leader Balen’s residence vandalized

KATHMANDU: Senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, had his private residence in Kathmandu vandalized last night.

An unknown group reportedly damaged the main gate of Shah’s house in the capital.

According to the Kathmandu District Police Office, the iron grill of the main gate was found broken. A police team immediately inspected the site after receiving the report.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Kaushal Budhathoki said that, based on the nature of the damage, the incident appears to be an attempted burglary. “Since no one was at home and the gate was found broken, it is likely that a suspicious group tried to steal,” DSP Budhathoki stated.

He added that no official complaint has yet been filed regarding missing items inside the house.

Shah, who is contesting in the upcoming House of Representatives elections from Jhapa Constituency No. 5, was away campaigning in Karnali Province when the incident occurred.

Police have launched a detailed investigation and are searching for those responsible.

Earlier reports indicate that the suspected burglary came to light when Shah’s relatives (sons of his maternal and paternal uncles), who regularly check on the house, arrived Friday evening.

Tasked with turning on lights and watering plants, they discovered the main gate damaged and the interiors in disarray, prompting them to immediately inform the police.

Santosh Khadka, SSP of the Valley Crime Investigation Office, confirmed the incident.

A special team led by an inspector has been deployed, and a joint investigation is ongoing involving the Crime Investigation Office, Kathmandu District Police Office, and Maharajgunj Police Station.