Why proposed revisions to Criminal Code have courted controversy

Critics say withdrawing cases from all tiers of court is an encroachment on the judiciary’s authority.

On Tuesday, lawmakers, including those from the ruling parties, came down heavily on the government over several provisions in the bill to amend some Nepal Acts. The lawmakers taking part in the deliberations were particularly unhappy with the provision that aims to amend the Criminal Code, clearing legal hurdles to withdraw criminal cases of “political nature”. The National Human Rights Commission, civil society organisations, and rights activists have also been objecting to the amendment. Amid the controversy, the Post explains what the amendment to the criminal code is all about.