Rabi Lamichhane released after 84 days in custody

Rabi Lamichhane, the chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and former home minister, has been released after spending 84 days in custody. His release followed an order from the Kaski District Court.

The court, presided over by Judge Nitij Rai, granted Lamichhane’s release on Thursday provided he posted a bail of Rs6.5 million. The charges against him include cooperative fraud, money laundering, and organised crime.

According to RSP leader Sobita Gautam, Lamichhane was released on Thursday evening after fulfilling the bail requirement. He had been arrested in Kathmandu on October 18 and was held in police custody until his release.

The court stipulated that Lamichhane must appear in person for proceedings related to cases filed against him in other district courts. Prior to his release, he underwent a medical examination at Gandaki Hospital in Pokhara before being handed over to his family.

Lamichhane’s legal team and supporters expressed relief at his release, but the allegations against him remain under judicial scrutiny.