Jul 02, Kathmandu - Former Finance Minister and Vice Chairman of CPN-UML, Bishnu Poudel, has received a six-day extension in his remand in connection with an asset laundering investigation. The Special Court ordered the extension during a hearing led by Judges Hemanta Rawal, Dillirajna Shrestha, and Umesh Koirala, according to court administration sources.

Poudel was detained during investigations into the purchase of a 20% share in Shree Ram Tobacco Udyog Pvt. Ltd., by Himalayan Asset Management Pvt. Ltd., which is alleged to have links with Infinity Holdings, a company with a 100% ownership stake. The government presented documents during the hearing affirming the involvement of Himalayan Asset Management in the case.

Currently in custody, Poudel’s arrest stems from allegations linked to the laundering of assets involving Himalayan Asset Management. The company reportedly invested in multiple locations, though investigations have revealed discrepancies, including that the actual owners differ from the apparent investors.

The government claims that Poudel was detained during ongoing investigations into the case. However, legal experts argue that based solely on these grounds, Poudel’s detention may not be justified, and they have requested his release on bail.

In addition, the case has garnered political attention ahead of the upcoming election, with Poudel’s opponent in Rupandehi-2, Chunn Prasad Sharma Poudel, being implicated after his statement during the election campaign on Falgun 21. Sharma reportedly claimed that a concealed amount was indeed provided by Poudel, a statement that has been used as evidence in the case.

Senior lawyer Badal argued that statements from political rivals should not be considered reliable evidence for arrest. The legal debate continues as the court reviews the case.