KATHMANDU, April 5: The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) is discussing in detail the multiple irregularities of Sajha Prakashan, according to the officials of the anti-graft body.
Dolindra Prasad Sharma, former chairperson and general manager of Sajha Prakashan, was accused of multiple irregularities, embezzling funds of the publication, appointing unnecessary staffers and misusing the logo of Sajha Prakashan for his private purpose. Following controversies, Sharma's tenure of chair was not extended while he resigned from the post of general manager last month.
In a meeting of the State Affairs Committee held on Tuesday, CIAA chief Nabin Ghimire said that the cases of Sajha Prakashan were being discussed in detail at the CIAA.
Let Sajha rise
Multiple cases were filed at the anti-graft body in relation to the irregularities in the state-owned publishing house of the country. Lawmaker Bijaya Subba raised concerns over the CIAA probe into the Sajha cases.
According to the CIAA, two commissioners look into the cases in the preliminary phase. As the cases are discussed in detail in the next phase, all commissioners will participate in the probe discussion on irregularities. “We are discussing the Sajha cases in detail,” said Ghimire. “It will be finalized after completing the detailed discussion,” he added. “Then further action will be taken as per the conclusion.”
The meeting of Sajha Management Board held on March 13 approved the resignation of former general manager Dolindra Sharma.
The management board meeting held on March 12 decided to seek clarification from Sharma, transferred general manager of the Sajha Prakashan, the 105 year-old public publication. Dolindra Sharma tendered his resignation on March 15 instead of submitting a clarification, according to the Sajha Prakashan.
A decision of the cabinet on March 3 transferred controversial Sharma to the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation (MoMCPA) on deputation until further notice. The cabinet also appointed under-secretary Rishi Ram Pangeni of MoMCPA as GM of Sajha Prakashan.
