Kathmandu: The Patan High Court has taken a significant step in the controversial case involving cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane, who was previously convicted of rape by the Kathmandu District Court (KDC). A division bench, led by Chief Judge Nripadhwaj Niraula and Justice Krishna Ram Koirala, has ordered the summoning of disputants in response to a writ petition seeking the overturning of the KDC’s verdict.

Lamichhane, a prominent figure in Nepal’s cricket scene, was sentenced to eight years in prison along with a fine and compensation of Rs 500,000 by the Kathmandu District Court on January 10, after being found guilty in the rape case. Subsequently, Lamichhane filed an appeal against the district court’s decision to the high court.

In a recent development, the High Court issued an order on Friday mandating the appearance of both sides of the case on April 15. This move indicates a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings surrounding Lamichhane’s case, as both parties prepare to present their arguments before the court.

The summoning of disputants by the Patan High Court underscores the gravity of the case and the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring a fair and thorough review of the allegations against the cricketer. As the legal process unfolds, all eyes remain on the upcoming court session to determine the trajectory of this highly-publicized case.