Kathmandu, August 18

Chief Whip of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) Dev Prasad Gurung today expressed his dissatisfaction over the Military Court’s verdict to jail a former military person who had deserted Nepali Army to join Maoist militia during the 10-year insurgency.

Speaking at the House of Representatives during special hour, Gurung said Shakti Gurung of Gokha Arughat-9, was convicted and sent to jail by the Military Court. The court had sentenced him to 10-year jail term on July 28.

The Military Court’s decision comes after 13 years of the incident. “The verdict of the Military Court is against the constitution,” he said.

He also said that a person named Bhagat Lal, a former Maoist combatant was arrested and detained by security agency some eight months ago.

Clauses of the Military Act from 38 to 65 include provisions on punitive measures.

The court had relied on those clauses in issuing its verdict. But, those provisions are in contravention with the constitution.

“Provisions on punishment in the Military Act contradict with Article 304 (2) of the constitution. Therefore, the verdict passed by the court should be declared void,” Gurung said.