In Nepal, a disturbing trend is on the rise lately. Influential politicians and businessmen facing legal troubles seem to have found a new strategy to avoid police detention getting admitted to hospital. This misuse of provisions meant for those with genuine health issues not only raises questions about the sanctity of law, but also reinforces the perception that the law is meant only for the poor and those without access to the power corridors.
The Special Court has slapped a nine-year jail sentence on three high-ranking officials along with a fine of Rs 4.10 billion each, in what is one of the biggest high-profile corruption cases in the country.
The Special Court sentenced former Director General of the Inland Revenue Department Chudamani Sharma, and former member of the Tax Settlement commission Umesh Prasad Dhakal to nine years in jail.