Govt Launches Probe into Insurance Authority Chair Sharad Ojha’s Qualifications

The government has formed a three-member investigation committee to examine the qualifications of Sharad Ojha, Chairperson of the Nepal Insurance Authority, amid growing concerns over his eligibility for the post.

This move follows a leaked report that the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) had intensified its inquiry into Ojha's appointment. A petition has also been filed at the Supreme Court, claiming that Ojha lacks the required qualifications and experience as outlined in the Insurance Act, 2079.

During Monday’s Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli proposed forming the investigation committee. Although Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak initially objected, arguing that the matter was already under CIAA investigation and in court, PM Oli warned that avoiding a government probe could broaden the case and possibly implicate ministers. The Cabinet eventually approved the committee formation.

Ojha has been suspended during the investigation, and Joint Secretary Seventak Pokharel has been appointed acting Chairperson of the Insurance Authority.

The three-member probe panel is headed by former High Court judge Krishna Giri, with advocate and former insurance board expert Kapildev Oli, and former anti-money laundering chief Jivan Prakash Sitaula as members. The committee must submit its report within three months.

Ojha was appointed on Falgun 12, 2081