Nepal's CIAA files Rs 8.36 billion corruption case against 55 over Pokhara

Nepal's Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has initiated a significant corruption case, filing charges against 55 individuals, including several former ministers, in connection with the construction of the Pokhara Regional International Airport. The case, registered at the Special Court on Sunday, December 7, 2025, alleges financial irregularities totaling Rs 8.36 billion (approximately $63 million USD), marking a major development in the oversight of large-scale infrastructure projects within the country. The investigation targets alleged misuse of funds and procedural misconduct during the airport's development phase.

The charges underscore a concerted effort by the Nepali anti-graft body to address systemic corruption within high-profile public works. The involvement of former government officials highlights the broad scope of the inquiry, suggesting potential irregularities spanning multiple administrative tenures. While specific details of the individual charges against the 55 accused parties, which reportedly include contractors and project managers, are yet to be fully disclosed, the sheer scale of the claimed financial misappropriation indicates a complex web of alleged illicit activities.

This legal action could have far-reaching implications for future infrastructure development in Nepal, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and stricter compliance measures for major projects. The Pokhara Regional International Airport, a flagship project aimed at boosting tourism and connectivity in the region, has been a subject of public interest since its inception. The outcome of this high-profile case will be closely watched by both domestic and international stakeholders, as it sets a precedent for accountability in public-private partnerships and government contracts within Nepal's aviation sector.