Kathmandu: The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police has initiated an investigation into Nepali Congress lawmaker Binod Chaudhary’s alleged involvement in the Bansbari Leather and Shoe factory land grab case. CIB has formally communicated with Speaker Devraj Ghimire regarding this matter to ensure parliamentary transparency.
Spokesperson for the Parliament Secretariat, Ekram Giri, confirmed CIB’s correspondence with Speaker Ghimire, emphasizing the importance of upholding parliamentary privilege during the investigation process. CIB Chief, AIG Shyam Lal Gyanwali, stated that informing the Speaker aims to prevent any potential breaches of parliamentary privilege and maintain transparency.
In response to the unfolding situation, Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane have instructed Nepal Police to gather statements from all involved parties, including lawmaker Chaudhary, and proceed with a thorough investigation.
Binod Chaudhary, recognized as Nepal’s first and only billionaire by Forbes Magazine, has been under scrutiny since the arrest of his brother, Arun Chaudhary, for his alleged role in the illegal transfer of government-owned Bansbari Leather and Shoe Factory land. The factory, established in the 1960s with assistance from the Chinese Government, faced financial challenges leading to the controversial sale of its land at a significantly undervalued price.
The transaction involved the transfer of ownership to Champion Footwear, partly owned by the Chaudhary family. After the closure of Champion Footwear, the land eventually transitioned into private ownership under Chandbag Residence, owned by Arun Chaudhary and his wife Shila.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities committed to uncovering the truth behind the Bansbari land grab case and ensuring accountability for all involved parties.