EC Directs Cyber Bureau to Investigate Durga Prasai Over 52 Crore Bribery Claim
19th January 2026, Kathmandu
The Election Commission (EC) has formally requested the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau to investigate and take legal action against Durga Prasai, the controversial coordinator of the “Nation, Nationality, Religion, Culture, and Citizen Protection Mega Campaign.”
EC Directs Cyber Bureau
The decision follows explosive allegations made by Prasai, who claimed that a staggering NPR 520 million (52 Crore) bribe was exchanged to settle internal disputes within the Nepali Congress and secure official recognition for its new working committee.
The Allegations: A Video Scandal
According to the Election Commission, the controversy erupted after a video of Prasai began circulating on social media. In the footage, recorded during a public event, Prasai alleged that the EC’s recent decision to update the records of the Nepali Congress—specifically recognizing the leadership of Gagan Thapa following a special general convention—was influenced by a massive financial payoff.
The Commission has denounced these claims as entirely baseless and a direct attack on the integrity of the constitutional body.
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Official Action by the Election Commission
On Sunday, the Election Commission held a formal meeting and concluded that Prasai’s remarks constitute a serious offense under cyber and defamation laws. Suman Adhikari, the Information Officer for the Election Commission, confirmed that a letter has been dispatched to the Cyber Bureau.
“The Commission has decided to move forward with a formal investigation. We have requested the Cyber Bureau to examine the video and the source of these claims and to take necessary legal action,” Adhikari stated.
Context: The Nepali Congress Leadership Dispute
The dispute in question involves the legitimacy of the Nepali Congress working committee. Last Friday, the Election Commission made a pivotal decision to officially update the party’s records, effectively recognizing the committee led by Gagan Thapa. Prasai’s claims suggest this bureaucratic process was “bought,” an assertion that has sent shockwaves through the Nepalese political landscape.
Legal Ramifications
Durga Prasai, a medical entrepreneur turned political activist, is no stranger to legal battles. He has previously faced charges related to the Electronic Transactions Act for his provocative social media presence. If the Cyber Bureau finds sufficient evidence of “disseminating false information” or “defaming a constitutional body,” Prasai could face stringent penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines.
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