The Constitutional Council (CC) had nominated Regmi as the new chief justice on April 11. [break]
Responding to lawmakers´ concerns at PHSC meeting, Regmi expressed commitment that he would not brook pressure and influence while issuing verdicts.
“I believe in deeds,” Regmi said, adding, “I have never been intimidated. I pledge that I would never deviate from my stance under any pressure.”
He also assured lawmakers that he would try his best to maintain accountability, transparency and credibility in the judiciary.
Regmi has served in the judiciary for four decades. Born on May 31, 1949 in Pokharathok- 6, Palpa, Regmi had joined the Supreme Court in 2003 as an ad hoc justice.
Regmi, who is an MA in Nepali literature and holds a bachelor´s degree in law, will remain chief justice for three years and a month starting from May.
Regmi came into the limelight after his bench released political detainees during former king Gyanendra´s direct rule in 2005. The precedent led to the release of hundreds of political detainees arrested by the royal government in 2005 and 2006.
(Khil Raj Regmi third from the either sides) (Photo: Bhaswor Ojha)
“I will prioritize backlog corruption cases. But I will not issue verdicts in haste under the pretext of expediting backlog cases,” Regmi said.
He also suggested to lawmakers and other stakeholders to help judiciary deliver justice in a free and fair manner.
Dozens of regulations related to the judicial service were amended as per the recommendations of various committees headed by Regmi. It was a Regmi-led committee that introduced mediation system in Nepal.
Recently, a Regmi-led committee forwarded important suggestions for amending the Judicial Administration Act. The legislature-parliament has already passed the act providing extensive jurisdiction to appellate courts.
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