Nepal roundup: life sentences, Ncell revels, travel ban, funding,VAT
Nepal Court imposes life sentences on 23 individuals, convicted in the murder of 6 Dalit youths"
In a remarkable verdict, Nepal's Rukum West District Court has handed life sentences to 23 individuals, including former ward president Dambar Bahadur Malla, for the murder of six young Nepalis, including Nabaraj BK, three and a half years ago in Sotigaon of Chaurjahari municipality. The court convicted them of brutal murder, attempted killing of the injured, abduction, holding the body hostage, and caste discrimination. The incident took place on May 23, 2020, when Nabaraj BK and friends were attacked while attempting to bring his 17-year-old girlfriend, from the so-called 'upper caste,' as his bride. Six people were killed, and 12 were injured. Those sentenced to life imprisonment must serve 25 years.
Ncell Revels sold for over 66 billion, not 6 billion
Nepal's Kantipur Daily exposed a suspected fraud in Ncell's financial dealings, challenging the reported $50 million deal, which may have actually been at least $500 million. This revelation raises concerns about transparency and regulatory oversight in the country's telecommunications sector. The alleged fraud has implications for the Malaysian government, given its investment in Aziata, Ncell's parent company. Six years ago, Ncell faced tax-related issues on a $1.043 trillion deal, resulting in a $66 billion tax approval by Nepal's tax office. The current transaction is being scrutinized for a significant reduction of at least 90 percent. Nepal Telecommunication Authority Chairman, Purushottam Khanal, has initiated an investigation into the questionable figures and processes involved.
Nepal imposes travel ban to Russia following deaths of 6 army workers
Nepal has implemented a travel ban to Russia for individuals with work permits, citing the recent deaths of six Nepali army workers. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs now mandates a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Consular Service Department for travel to Russia, with exceptions for government work, Russian government scholarships, and professional business. The Department of Foreign Employment reportedly had no prior knowledge of the ban, while the Ministry underscores a policy against Nepali citizens joining foreign armies, except under traditional agreements with friendly nations.
India increases funding for Nepal's small development projects
India Raises Budget for Nepal's Small Development Projects in Response to Growing Chinese and US Influence. Finance Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat confirms approval for an increased grant from Rs50 million to Rs240 million under the Indian small development project scheme. Despite Nepal's financial constraints, the move aligns with India's efforts to counterbalance the influence of other nations in the region. The memorandum of understanding for the budget increase is expected to be signed soon.
Nepali potato and onion traders stage strike over VAT, resulting in market shortages
Nepali Potato and Onion Traders have initiated a strike protesting against the government's imposition of VAT, risking potential shortages, as reported by local news outlets. The dispute arises from the extension of VAT to locally sourced goods, initially intended only for imports. The Potato and Onion Traders Association blames the Internal Revenue Office for the stringent VAT enforcement, leading to disrupted business operations. Despite opposition, the government has implemented a 13 percent VAT on potato and onion transactions in the current fiscal year's budget.
