22 September 2024, Kathmandu
In a recent turn of events, businessman Durga Prasai has been apprehended under accusations of cybercrime. The District Court of Kathmandu issued an arrest warrant against Prasai on Wednesday under Section 47 of the Electronic Transaction Act.
Along with Prasai, warrants have also been issued for Jeevan Pandey and Durga Khanal, according to Ramu Sharma, the court registrar of the Kathmandu District Court.
The arrest warrants were issued based on recommendations made by the police after Prasai’s statements targeting political leaders drew public attention. According to a police source, Prasai’s remarks were seen as inciting social disharmony, which led to further investigations under the cybercrime laws.
Durga Prasai has been active in various campaigns recently, and his outspoken views have garnered both support and criticism. However, authorities are now scrutinizing his recent statements for their potential to incite unrest and violate the country’s laws regarding electronic transactions.
Durga Prasai: A Controversial Political Activist and Entrepreneur
Durga Prasai (born May 5, 1971) is a Nepalese political activist and medical entrepreneur known for his right-wing views. He is an advocate for the reinstatement of Nepal’s constitutional monarchy and Hindu state, actively opposing the current federal democratic system. His political campaigns, which gained momentum in 2023, have drawn attention across all provinces of Nepal.
Prasai is also embroiled in significant legal controversies. He was charged with defaulting on loans amounting to NPR 5.57 billion from various commercial banks to establish B&C Hospital in Jhapa. Despite these charges, he remains the hospital’s Executive Director. In 2024, the Supreme Court of Nepal directed authorities to grant his hospital permission to run MBBS classes.
A former supporter of the communist movement, Prasai played a key role in unifying Nepal’s left parties in 2017. However, his shift toward monarchist and Hindu nationalist views led to his expulsion from the CPN UML in 2023. Known for making allegations against political and industrial elites, Prasai’s bold assertions continue to stir public debate, though they remain largely unverified.
For more: Businessman Durga Prasai Arrested