An internal investigation has led to a recommendation for disciplinary action against suspended Armed Police Force (APF) Additional Inspector General (AIG) Banshiraj Dahal for misconduct and allegedly leaking confidential information.

The one-person inquiry committee, led by AIG Anjani Kumar Pokharel, submitted a report to Home Minister Sudan Gurung, suggesting action under Rule 113 of the Armed Police Force Regulations, 2015. The report is approximately 12 to 13 pages long.

While the report calls for disciplinary measures, the Home Minister will make the final decision.

According to Rule 113, anyone found guilty of professional misconduct may be removed or dismissed from service, but dismissal does not prevent them from holding public office.

Dahal Suspended for Alleged Information Leak

On October 5, the Home Ministry suspended Dahal after allegations surfaced that he leaked confidential information and breached official conduct.

The inquiry followed reports that Dahal visited the Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office in Teku to meet former Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana while he was in police custody.

Rana was apprehended at his residence in Kathmandu on the night of September 26 and released the next afternoon due to a potential security threat. Dahal’s visit raised concerns, prompting further investigation into his possible links to an alleged intermediary from Jhapa and the potential disclosure of confidential information.

Details of the information Dahal is accused of leaking have not been fully disclosed, but the allegations are under disciplinary investigation.

Inquiry Committee Given Three Days

The Home Ministry established the inquiry committee on October 5, allowing Pokharel three days to investigate the allegations and recommend further action.

The Home Minister, Sudan Gurung, will review the inquiry’s recommendations and decide on the appropriate course of action based on relevant regulations.

This case has sparked concerns regarding the management of confidential state information and the accountability of senior security officials.

Dahal’s Tenure and Possible Extension

Prior to his suspension, Dahal was the chief of the APF’s Border Department and was promoted to AIG on May 11, 2022.

According to Rule 65(c) of the Armed Police Force Regulations, 2015, AIGs serve a four-year term, which can be extended by one year upon the recommendation of the APF Inspector General.

Before his suspension, APF headquarters had recommended extending his tenure. The government and the outcome of the disciplinary inquiry will now determine his future in the force.

The inquiry committee’s recommendation is crucial, but the final decision regarding Dahal will rest with the relevant authorities.