The Gandaki provincial government has initiated an official inquiry into claims of corruption involving former Health Minister Laxman Bahadur Pandey and Health Secretary Dr. Yuva Nidhi Basaula. The investigation centers on accusations that the officials solicited a bribe of 3 million rupees in exchange for authorizing an expansion of Padma Nursing Home in Pokhara from 50 to 100 beds. These allegations were brought to light by journalist Apil Tripathi through a video report. While the former minister has publicly rejected the claims of accepting illicit payments, reports suggest that neither he nor his staff have provided a definitive denial regarding the specific bribery negotiations. Consequently, the provincial administration has removed Dr. Basaula from his position as the investigation into the ministry's approval processes proceeds.
Source : Online Khabar
Photo : Online Khabar
