Kathmandu: In a landmark ruling, the Kathmandu District Court has convicted prominent cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane of rape. The court found Lamichhane guilty of assaulting a woman, identified as Gushala-26, in a Kathmandu hotel room on August 21, 2022.

The verdict, reached after a delayed and closely watched trial, leaves Lamichhane facing a potential prison sentence of 7 to 10 years. The court acknowledged undeniable evidence of Lamichhane's presence with the victim at the hotel and cited his "taking advantage of her poor economic condition" as a crucial factor in the conviction.

While the specific jail term will be determined at a January 10th hearing, the ruling marks a significant victory for the victim and advocates for justice. Notably, the court dismissed the victim's claim of being a minor at the time of the assault, which could have resulted in a harsher sentence.

Rights activists remain concerned about the age determination but have expressed overall satisfaction with the conviction. They acknowledge the severity of the crime and the long-awaited resolution for the victim.

Despite the conviction, Lamichhane, the former national cricket team captain, is not yet in custody. He retains the right to appeal the verdict at higher courts. His legal team is expected to decide on their next course of action in the coming days.

This case has garnered international attention, raising crucial questions about power dynamics, sexual assault, and the pursuit of justice within the world of sports. The conviction of Sandeep Lamichhane serves as a powerful reminder that no individual, regardless of their fame or achievements, is above the law.