A single bench of Chief Justice Sushila Karki issued the order citing rule 41 of the Police Regulations 2071 B.S. that calls for seniority, work efficiency, ability to assume responsibilities, provide leadership and mobilize subordinate personnel. It has thereby halted appointment, assumption of post or any other related acts.

“Considering the adherence of the standards set for the post of IGP and sensitivity of the matter, a conclusion has to be reached to whether issue an interim order following deliberations with both the parties,” reads the order.

The order by the apex court comes in response to the writ petition filed on Friday by advocate Kapildev Dhakal seeking an order to stop the appointment of Chand as the next IGP. The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has been named as the defendant in the writ.

The stay order today was issued following a hearing on the writ petition. On behalf of the petitioner, senior advocates Shambhu Thapa, Badri Bahadur Karki, Tulsa Bhatta among others had pleaded.

It may noted be that the Council of Ministers meeting this morning decided to appoint Chand to the post of IGP. Chand is third in-line in terms of seniority in the police organization. RSS