Kathmandu: The main opposition party, the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), has challenged the government to immediately reopen and investigate all major controversial cases that have been described as examples of policy-level corruption, including the Giribandhu Tea Estate, Omni procurement and Widebody aircraft purchase cases.

Speaking during a special session of the House of Representatives on Monday, UML Deputy Parliamentary Party Leader Padma Aryal criticized remarks made by Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle during the budget debate. She argued that threatening to "open files" against political opponents from the parliamentary rostrum was inappropriate and urged the government to conduct impartial investigations rather than pursue political retaliation.

Demand for Comprehensive Investigation
Aryal said that if the government is serious about accountability, it should begin by reopening the Giribandhu Tea Estate case and then proceed with investigations into other controversial cases, including the Omni procurement and Widebody aircraft purchase scandals.

She also questioned whether those making corruption allegations would be willing to take responsibility if investigations ultimately fail to substantiate the claims.

Addressing Parliament, Aryal stated that all disputed cases should be investigated transparently and the truth should be established through due process. She emphasized that allegations affecting an individual's reputation must be supported by evidence and legal findings.

Background of the Giribandhu Tea Estate Case
The Giribandhu Tea Estate controversy centers on a decision made during the government led by K. P. Sharma Oli, which allowed approximately 343 bighas of tea estate land in Jhapa to be exchanged for land elsewhere.

Critics alleged that the decision benefited land interests and violated existing legal provisions. In Magh 2080 BS, the Supreme Court of Nepal declared the decision unlawful and overturned it. Legal and political debates regarding implementation of the court's ruling continue.

Omni Procurement Controversy
The Omni case relates to the procurement of medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The Ministry of Health awarded contracts to the Omni Group for emergency medical equipment and supplies.

The procurement process later came under scrutiny over allegations of inflated pricing and lack of competitive bidding. Parliamentary investigations identified procedural irregularities, though critics argued that senior political figures were not held accountable.

Widebody Aircraft Purchase Case
The Widebody scandal involves the acquisition of two Airbus aircraft by Nepal Airlines Corporation. Investigators alleged financial irregularities and losses amounting to approximately Rs 1.47 billion linked to aircraft specifications and procurement procedures.

The case was brought before the Special Court, which convicted only a limited number of defendants while acquitting several former ministers, secretaries and senior officials. Following the verdict, Nepal Airlines appealed the acquittals to the Supreme Court.

Political Tensions Continue
Aryal's remarks reflect growing tensions between the government and opposition parties over corruption investigations and accountability. While the government has pledged stronger action against corruption, opposition leaders argue that investigations must be applied uniformly and without political bias.

The debate is expected to continue as Parliament discusses both the national budget and broader governance issues in the coming sessions.