Apr 17, Kathmandu - The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a petition filed by the Nepali Congress's declaration faction challenging the Election Commission's decision on party recognition today. The case, which was deferred after Thursday's hearing, will now be taken up before a joint panel of Justices Sharanga Subedi and Nrip Dhwaj.

The petition by Deuba's faction was filed to halt the party’s 15th general convention agenda, arguing that the current schedule should not be implemented until the dispute over party legitimacy is resolved. Previously, the faction had also lodged a petition concerning the party's official status.

Following the Election Commission's recognition of Gagan Thapa's leadership, Deuba's faction filed a writ petition demanding the nullification of this decision. As Thapa's faction began preparations for the convention, Deuba's supporters argued that the recognition was unconstitutional and against party statutes, requesting the court to annul it.

The case also involves a dispute over the party's official leadership, with Thapa's faction being recognized as the official central committee. The Supreme Court's decision will determine the legitimacy of the recent recognition and the upcoming party convention.