Investigate First Detain Later: Jyotsna Shrestha Urges Government to Protect Business Confidence
29th April 2026, Kathmandu
Jyotsna Shrestha Subba, the Associate Vice President candidate of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), has voiced serious concerns over the government’s growing tendency to detain entrepreneurs without completing thorough investigations or presenting solid evidence.
Investigate First Detain Later
Speaking on the current business climate, Shrestha emphasized that such actions are creating an atmosphere of fear and significantly damaging “business confidence” across the country.
Presumption of Innocence and Due Process
Shrestha argued that the practice of taking legal action before a crime is proven violates basic principles of justice and discourages the private sector. She urged the government to adopt a more systematic approach: “Investigate and listen to the entrepreneur first, and only proceed with detention if proven guilty.”
According to her, the current trend of “detain first, investigate later” has led to:
Increased Insecurity: Entrepreneurs feel vulnerable to arbitrary legal actions.
Weakened Investment Climate: Domestic and foreign investors are becoming wary of the unpredictable regulatory environment.
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Economic Impact: When a business leader is targeted unfairly, it affects thousands of jobs, production cycles, and the overall economic momentum.
The Call for a Predictable Business Environment
The FNCCI candidate highlighted that an entrepreneur represents more than just an individual; they are the backbone of the economy, responsible for job creation and revenue. She called on the government to be serious about ensuring a safe and predictable business environment.
“The government must listen to the voices of the business community before taking drastic measures. We need a system that supports growth rather than one that stifles it through premature legal pressure,” Shrestha stated.
A Unified Voice for the Business Community
Beyond the appeal to the state, Shrestha stressed the importance of unity within the private sector. She urged all entrepreneurs to stand together and raise a collective voice against unfair practices.
She concluded by noting that the business community remains committed to acting responsibly and fairly but expects the same level of accountability and transparency from government agencies to ensure long-term economic stability in Nepal.
For more: Investigate First Detain Later
