Kathmandu— The High Court Patan has ordered those involved in the appointment of Bagmati Province Chief Minister Kiran Thapa Magar to explain the basis for their decision, responding to separate writ petitions challenging the legitimacy of the appointment. Justice Babita Upreti issued the show cause notice on August 24th, directing defendants to submit a written response within fifteen days outlining the reasoning and evidence supporting the appointment. The legal challenge was brought forth by Kumari Tamang, Chief Whip of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) in Bagmati Province, and Advocate Mohan Prasad Dhakal.

Legal Challenge Filed

Two separate writ petitions were filed at the Hetauda bench of the High Court contesting the appointment of Kiran Thapa Magar as Chief Minister. Kumari Tamang, representing the RPP’s parliamentary party in Bagmati Province, and Advocate Mohan Prasad Dhakal independently initiated legal action questioning the process and validity of the appointment.

Court Response

Justice Babita Upreti responded to the petitions by issuing a show cause notice, requesting a detailed explanation from those involved in the Chief Minister’s appointment. The court is seeking clarification on the grounds, evidence, and justification used in making the decision. Badri Prasad Lamichhane, Deputy Registrar of the Hetauda bench, confirmed that the defendants have been given fifteen days to submit their written response.

Upcoming Hearing

Following the submission of written responses, the High Court has scheduled a discussion involving both parties on August 26th. This hearing will allow for further examination of the arguments presented in the writ petitions and the justifications provided by those who appointed Chief Minister Thapa Magar.

The court’s decision following the August 26th hearing will determine whether the appointment of Kiran Thapa Magar as Chief Minister of Bagmati Province remains valid.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.