Kathmandu: Allegations of selective enforcement of corruption cases and potential bias against specific political factions have cast a shadow over Nepal's political landscape. Prominent leaders such as KP Sharma Oli, Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, and Narayan Kaji Shrestha have faced scrutiny for their perceived divergence from their promises to combat corruption and maintain accountability.

KP Sharma Oli had made resolute commitments to penalize corrupt individuals during his tenure as Prime Minister. However, these pledges appeared incongruent with reality, as those accused of corruption appeared to receive protection rather than punishment.

The present Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, and Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, have ardently advocated for investigating corruption cases and bringing the guilty to justice. Their commitment manifested notably through the arrest of a Deputy Prime Minister, a Home Minister, and a Secretary. Nonetheless, their actions now face scrutiny due to perceived inaction in other cases.

The absence of arrests in cases like that of Krishna Bahadur Mahara, a former Speaker, and his son Rahul, involved in a gold smuggling scheme, has raised concerns of potential bias. Despite substantial evidence implicating them in the smuggling and sale of gold worth around NRS 90 million, investigations appear stalled, casting doubt on the impartiality of the process. Similarly, links between Dawa Chiring, implicated in a gold smuggling operation, and influential political figures seem to have escaped thorough examination.

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) reportedly amassed compelling evidence tying Krishna Bahadur Mahara to gold smuggling and distribution networks, supported by call detail records. However, the Mahara father-son duo received political immunity, triggering accusations of a dual standard in treating corruption cases linked to varying political affiliations.

This perceived bias has ignited discussions on the fairness and objectivity of ongoing investigations. Concerns about political interference have exacerbated public skepticism towards the handling of corruption cases, particularly when higher-ranking officials remain untouched while others face legal repercussions.

These unfolding events have raised questions about the dedication of Nepal's leadership to upholding the rule of law and ensuring equitable treatment for all citizens, irrespective of their political alignments. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the pursuit of justice and accountability stands as a paramount endeavor, crucial for Nepal's governance and overall credibility.

Narayan Kaji Shrestha's Controversial History

Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, who holds the position of vice-chairman within the Maoist party, has not been exempt from controversy, as his past reflects.

In the year 2077, an audio recording of a conversation between Narayan Kaji Shrestha and the former Maoist leader Kamansingh Lama emerged on social media. The conversation revolved around a transaction involving millions of rupees, triggering intense scrutiny and severe criticism directed at Narayan Kaji for his involvement in the matter.

In another instance, Ishwar Pokharel, then a member of the CPN secretariat and currently the senior vice president of UML, posted a tribute message following the passing of Kamansingh Lama. In his message, he raised thought-provoking questions about the principles of the communist party and its associated ideals. This post faced backlash from within the CPN, highlighting the discord that existed within the party.

Narayan Kaji Shrestha found himself embroiled in a controversy stemming from a lengthy Facebook status penned by Kamansingh Lama prior to his demise. This issue reverberated significantly within the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) at that time.

These incidents underscore the complex nature of Narayan Kaji Shrestha's history and the controversies that have surrounded him. As the Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, his past continues to shape perceptions and conversations about his role within the political landscape.