Former Nepal Police Inspector General Dan Bahadur Karki has filed a petition in the Supreme Court to restore him to his position as IGP.
Karki submitted this petition after the Cabinet decided to move him to the role of Special Security Adviser to the Prime Minister and appointed Additional Inspector General (AIG) Dr. Manoj Kumar KC as the new police chief.
This change has raised legal questions about the government’s authority to appoint a new chief.
Karki Challenges Government’s Decision
Karki argues in his petition that the government’s decision to remove him from the IGP position is unlawful and seeks his reinstatement.
The government created a new role of Special Security Adviser within the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, assigning Karki to this position.
However, Karki questions the justification for his removal as police chief and the appointment of a new officer.
17 Months Remaining in Service
The government appointed AIG Dr. Manoj Kumar KC as the new IGP on November 4, 2026. Karki had about 17 months left in his service.
The government claims this change is part of a reorganization of duties.
Government Spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel stated,
“The new post of Security Adviser has been created to provide professional advice to the Prime Minister on security-related issues.”
Nonetheless, the government faces scrutiny for lacking legal grounds for this decision.
Precedent Set by Former IGP Achyut Krishna Kharel
Karki’s petition references a similar situation from nearly three decades ago involving former Inspector General Achyut Krishna Kharel.
In 2053 BS, Kharel was removed as IGP and assigned to the National Investigation Department. This decision was challenged in the Supreme Court.
On Ashar 19, 2055 BS, the court ruled that the government’s decision was unjustified, stating,
“The removal of the sitting police chief without reasonable legal justification is arbitrary.”
The court emphasized that police chiefs should not be appointed based on political favor, as unnecessary changes could harm the professionalism and morale of the police force.
Kharel was reinstated as IGP by this time, setting a significant precedent.
Manoj Kumar KC Appointed as New IGP
Following Karki’s reassignment, AIG Dr. Manoj Kumar KC was promoted to Inspector General of Police by the Cabinet, effective November 4, 2026.
Karki’s request for reinstatement has added complexity to this legal dispute.
The Supreme Court’s consideration of this case may influence the government’s authority to reassign senior police officers and the legality of the IGP’s term.
Significance of the Case
This case is crucial as it underscores the legal justification needed for removing a sitting IGP, the extent of government power, and the independence of the Nepal Police.
It will be closely monitored, especially due to the precedent established in the Achyut Krishna Kharel case.
If the court rules in favor of Karki, it could affect the current police leadership. Conversely.
If the government’s decision is upheld, it may clarify the extent of executive power over senior appointments.
The Supreme Court’s ruling will be pivotal for the future leadership of the Nepal Police.