Explained: The leaked WhatsApp chats that have shaken Nepal’s judiciary
Summary
Leaked WhatsApp messages have raised questions about attempts to influence Supreme Court proceedings in Nepal, putting Justice Hari Prasad Phuyal and Chief Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma under scrutiny. The controversy has deepened concerns over corruption, intermediaries and internal divisions within the judiciary.
Key Points
- Naya Patrika reported leaked WhatsApp exchanges between Supreme Court Justice Hari Prasad Phuyal and Inam Sapkota, an alleged fixer accused of trying to influence court decisions.
- The messages suggest Sapkota invoked Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s interest in a habeas corpus case involving businessman Rohit Gupta, while Phuyal says he did not act improperly.
- Separate documents circulating publicly have also drawn Chief Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma, RSP lawmaker Bishwaraj Pokharel and senior police officer Banshiraj Dahal into the controversy.
- The revelations have intensified scrutiny of Nepal’s Supreme Court amid long-running tensions over appointments, influence and institutional credibility.
