Court cannot look into wartime incidents, they fall under TRC’s jurisdiction: Maoist Center

Published On: March 8, 2023 07:39 PM NPT By: SANDESH SHRESTHA

POKHARA, March 8: CPN (Maoist Center) Gandaki Province has said that the court cannot interfere in matters that fall under the jurisdiction of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The CPN (Maoist Center) Gandaki Province Committee issued a statement saying that since the TRC is mandated to look into the incidents that took place during the armed conflict, such incidents will not be allowed to enter the court.

On Tuesday, two writ petitions were registered at the Supreme Court against the chairman of the CPN (Maoist Center) Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The Maoist factions have said that they will counter it. Gandaki chapter of the CPN (Maoist Center) has also objected to the order issued by the court to register writ petition against PM Dahal.

Issuing a statement, the CPN (Maoist Centre) of Gandaki Province said, "In relation to the events that took place during the civil war, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established as directed by the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the commission has been active for a long time to complete the judicial proceedings during the transition period. To assume any responsibilities that adversely affect the matters within the jurisdiction of the commission is not acceptable.”

CPN Maoist Center Gandaki Province defended Maoist Chairman Dahal saying that he exaggerated the facts while expressing his views in a public program. Writ petitions were filed against Dahal because of prejudice, said the party.

The party also mentioned that the writ petition against Dahal contradicts the general principle of judicial review and is also against the freedom of thought and expression allowed by the current constitution.

CPN-Maoist Center Gandaki Province has warned that any such activity that is against the understanding reached between the leaders while signing the peace pact will have serious consequences.

CPN-Maoist Center Gandaki Province has said that it will reject any activity against peace, constitution, inclusive democracy, republic, constitution, federalism, and progressive achievements.