Khanal Appeals to Nepal to Create a Path Forward in Patanjali Land Case, Alleges Absence of Spirit for Change

Kathmandu – Senior CPN (Unified Socialist) leader Jhalanath Khanal has urged everyone not to interpret his request for intervention in the Patanjali land case to assist party chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal as a “spirit of change.” He criticized those who framed it as such, calling their remarks immature and childish.

Speaking to News Agency Nepal, Khanal clarified that his proposal was meant to help Chairman Nepal navigate the corruption charges and reinforce his position. “Comrade Madhav is facing a major case—a 190 million-rupee charge. My concern about how he might be defended prompted me to make this proposal,” he explained.

The case pertains to Patanjali Yogpeeth and Ayurveda Company’s 2010 purchase of 593 ropani of land in Banepa, Kavrepalanchok, under a ceiling exemption. Of that, 353 ropani and 15 aana were later sold to Kasthamandap Housing Company. It is alleged that the then-Prime Minister, Madhav Kumar Nepal, via a Cabinet decision, authorized Patanjali to acquire 815 ropani of land and allowed its commercial sale within two months—actions deemed policy-level corruption. The CIAA filed the case on Jestha 22, demanding compensation of NPR 185 million, and Nepal’s parliamentary position has been suspended. Khanal also rejected assertions that the issue is a broader party matter rather than a political challenge faced solely by Nepal, warning such unfounded and non-principled comments would only exacerbate the situation. Drawing lessons from previous leaders who faced and legally overcame allegations, he urged political maturity in responding to the current crisis.