The Cost of Arbitrary Power
Summary
The late-night removal of former Chief Justice Cholendra SJB Rana from his residence has sparked controversy over whether police acted with a legal basis or used arbitrary state power. The episode has raised broader concerns about due process, personal liberty, and accountability in Nepal’s constitutional democracy.
Key Points
- Former Chief Justice Cholendra SJB Rana was taken from his residence late at night and held overnight at the Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office.
- Police said Rana was moved for security reasons, but critics say there was no complaint, arrest warrant, investigation, or public legal order.
- The article warns that the episode raises broader concerns about arbitrary state action and weak safeguards for due process in Nepal.
- Constitutional expert Bipin Adhikari says there were less intrusive and more transparent ways to handle any legitimate security concern.
