Apr 20, Kathmandu - Home Minister Sudan Gurung addressed various allegations linked to his name that have recently come to public attention. He criticized the questions raised in recent days, stating that they have been presented in a complicated manner, and he aimed to clarify the facts straightforwardly.

Gurung denied the accusation that he concealed shares worth NPR 2.5 million, asserting that all investments exceeding NPR 20 million in the stock market are transparently disclosed in his asset declarations. He clarified that investments in Star Micro Insurance and Liberty Micro are also included within this disclosure. “Someone hiding something would not publicly reveal assets exceeding NPR 20 million,” he emphasized.

Regarding the claim that he purchased shares before becoming a minister, Gurung maintained that investing in shares is not a criminal act, and all transactions were conducted through banking channels. “Funds transferred from banks are fully traceable, making it impossible to conceal such amounts,” he added.

He elaborated on the source of his investment, stating that he took a loan through a written deed on Bhadra 29, 2080, and invested the money via the banking system. “The origin of the funds is verified through official documents and bank records, not mere speculation,” Gurung said.

Addressing the accusation of partnership with a controversial individual, he argued that since multiple shareholders can hold shares in a single company, ownership does not imply collusion. “It is unjust to accuse someone based solely on shareholding,” he added.

Regarding the allegation of a conflict of interest, Gurung clarified that the Financial Integrity Department under the Ministry of Finance, not the Home Ministry, is responsible for investigations. He stated that since inquiries are ongoing, he has not interfered in the process.

He also rejected claims that he lacked background checks before making investments, asserting that risk is inherent in business investments. “It is unreasonable to link subsequent events with previous decisions,” he said.

Gurung emphasized that, due to the sensitive legal nature of the issues involved, he refrained from immediate comments and urged reliance on evidence rather than rumors. He reaffirmed his commitment to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and stated, “Claims and facts are not the same; decisions should be based on evidence.”