Courts, Army and First-Time Ministers and Lawmakers Outside Asset Investigation Commission’s Scope

The government formed Asset Investigation Commission has decided not to investigate the assets of sitting judges, the Nepal Army, officials of constitutional bodies, and individuals serving as ministers or lawmakers for the first time.

Commission member Ganesh KC said these officials do not fall under the commission’s jurisdiction as defined by its Terms of Reference (ToR). However, former judges, former officials, and Nepal Police officers will come under investigation.

According to provisions published in the Gazette, complaints against officials outside the commission’s jurisdiction will be forwarded to the concerned authorities for investigation.

The commission stated that the number of complaints against public officials has increased after it issued a public notice inviting complaints. Meanwhile, former chief justices and former judges have reportedly decided not to submit their property details to the commission.

The commission has begun investigating the assets of political office bearers and senior government officials who held public office between fiscal years 2005/06 and 2024/25. The Cabinet formed the commission under the coordination of former Supreme Court judge Rajendra Kumar Bhandari.