Key Points
- The Supreme Court has asked the government to justify the detention of RPP Vice President Rabindra Mishra.
- A habeas corpus petition filed on Tuesday claims Mishra was unlawfully held.
- Police arrested Mishra during an April protest; he’s under investigation for anti-state and organized crime charges.
Lead
Nepal’s Supreme Court has issued a show cause order to the government, demanding it justify the detention of RPP Senior Vice President Rabindra Mishra. Justice Sunil Kumar Pokharel’s single bench issued the order on Wednesday, requiring that Mishra be produced in court within 24 hours, along with the legal basis for his arrest.
Details
The court’s directive follows a habeas corpus petition filed on Tuesday by Mishra’s legal team. The petition claims Mishra’s arrest and continued detention are unlawful. Earlier that day, the Kathmandu District Court had granted police permission to hold Mishra for five additional days to further their investigation.
Police arrested Mishra on April 27 (Chaitra 15) in connection with a protest held at Tinkune, Kathmandu. He was charged with disorderly conduct during the demonstration. Authorities say he is being investigated for offenses against the state and suspected ties to organized criminal activity.
Reaction
The case has drawn wide public interest and political commentary. Supporters of Mishra argue that his arrest represents a suppression of political dissent. Civil rights advocates have urged authorities to ensure due process and transparency.
Outlook
The Supreme Court’s intervention may serve as a legal check on the state’s power to detain political figures without clear justification. Depending on how the government responds, the ruling could set precedent for future detentions under political and protest-related charges.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
