RSP lawmaker Khagendra Sunar has submitted a written response to the party’s Central Disciplinary Commission regarding allegations related to a controversial audio recording. The internal investigation is now in the evidence collection phase.
Harichandra Bhattarai, deputy head of the disciplinary commission, confirmed that Sunar’s response was submitted on time but did not disclose its contents, stating this is just the initial stage of the investigation.
The commission has formed a six member investigation committee, led by Bhattarai, to examine the allegations and prepare a report with recommendations.
RSP Committee to Gather Original Audio Recordings
The investigation committee met for the first time on Thursday and decided to collect audio recordings allegedly featuring Sunar. They will also request additional materials from the media outlets that published the recordings.
The committee plans to contact the online edition of Jana Aastha weekly, the first to publish the recording, to request the original, unedited audio files and related evidence.
They will also seek relevant content aired by News 24 Television, including material attributed to the woman identified in reports as the alleged victim.
Bhattarai mentioned that the committee may consult technical experts if needed to verify the material’s authenticity. A thorough and credible investigation will be conducted before any recommendations are made.
Written Submission Initiates Investigation Process
Bhattarai stated that Sunar’s written explanation is the first step in addressing the allegations.
The committee will evaluate whether Sunar’s response satisfactorily addresses the questions raised. If the response and available evidence are inadequate, further information may be requested, leading to additional investigation stages.
The committee has not set a deadline for completing the investigation, as the next steps hinge on the availability of the recordings and other requested materials. Completing the investigation before Dashain may be challenging.
Sunar Rejects Allegations in Audio Recording
Sunar denies that the voice in the recording is his, suggesting that artificial intelligence or other technology may have been used to create the material and implicate him.
He has expressed his willingness to cooperate with investigations from both his party and state authorities.
The reports allege abusive language, threats, and possible blackmail involving a woman; however, these claims have not been confirmed, and the recording’s authenticity remains unverified.
The commission’s decision to request original files and related materials is critical in determining the recording’s authenticity and drawing any conclusions.
RSP Previously Instructed Sunar to Avoid Formal Public Events
The RSP has instructed Sunar not to participate in formal public events as a lawmaker and central committee member while the disciplinary inquiry is ongoing.
Party leaders view the allegations as serious and have committed to taking action in line with party statutes and laws if wrongdoing is established, pledging cooperation with state authorities.
This inquiry is separate from any criminal investigation. Police have indicated they are awaiting a formal complaint before launching a full criminal investigation and are currently making preliminary inquiries into the allegations.
Next Steps: Review Original Recordings and Media Material
The six member committee is expected to analyze the original recordings and related materials, as well as Sunar’s written response, before issuing their findings and recommendations.
The investigation’s outcome will depend on the quality and authenticity of the evidence collected and whether further investigation is warranted.
Currently, Sunar’s submission marks the initial step in the RSP’s internal process, and the committee has yet to reach a conclusion; the allegations remain unproven.
The next step involves obtaining unedited recordings, reviewing the available evidence, and determining if further action is necessary.