Nirmala murder case investigation on top priority: IGP Singh

By A Staff Reporter Kathmandu, June 3: Inspector General of Nepal Police (IGP) Dhiraj Pratap Singh Thursday said that investigation into the Nirmala Pant rape and murder case will remain one of his top priorities during his tenure.

Speaking at his maiden press conference organised at the Police Headquarters, Naxal, IGP Singh said that Nirmala murder and rape case has remained a top priority. 

He said, "Questions have been raised in the investigation from various quarters and now this incident must be taken to a rational conclusion with logical and solid evidences.”

It has been almost four years since Nirmala Pant was  raped and murdered. Nirmala, who had gone to a friend's house in Bhimdutta Municipality-18, Nimbukheda on July 26, 

2018, was found dead in a sugarcane field near Mahendranagar- Ultakham road the next day.

Pant’s mother Durga had lodged a complaint at the District Police Office for investigation against Dilip Singh Bista of Bhimdutta-19 Bagphanta, who was made public by the police as accused on August 20, 2018.

Also, IGP Singh said that adjustment of Nepal Police in the provincial structure and controlling crimes in the Valley and other districts would also remain in the priority list.

Likewise, IGP Singh said that the Nepal Police in support of other security agencies would now focus on preparing a plan for successful conduction of an upcoming federal election in November this year. 

He also said that the promotion of police from junior to senior ranks would not be based on political influence but on the basis of excellence, seniority and merit.

"Those who have been picked up will not be promoted; excellence, capability, seniority will matter in their promotion. We have a record of those who try to gain political influence,” said Inspector General Singh.