Supreme Court Justices Face Scrutiny Amid Allegations of Corruption
Summary
Serious corruption allegations against Supreme Court Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma and Justice Hari Prasad Phuyal have triggered a judicial crisis in Nepal, prompting the Supreme Court’s full court to call for an impartial investigation. The case has intensified pressure on the judges to recuse themselves and raised the prospect of bench boycotts, parliamentary action, and a broader erosion of public trust.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court’s full court has urged an impartial and independent investigation into allegations involving Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma and Justice Hari Prasad Phuyal.
- Justice Hari Prasad Phuyal has gone on leave until November 6, and both accused judges have ethically recused themselves from the bench.
- Legal practitioners and the Nepal Bar Association may protest or boycott benches if the judges continue to sit while under scrutiny.
- The controversy has revived concerns about judicial corruption, political pressure, and possible impeachment proceedings if prima facie evidence emerges.
