The District Election Office has issued a warning to CPN-UML candidate Rajendra Kumar Rai for allegedly violating the election code of conduct.
A complaint was filed at the Office of the Chief Election Officer alleging that Rai, who is also a former minister, distributed money in violation of the code of conduct.
On February 20, Rai visited Safaitar of Shahidbhumi Rural Municipality–1 and honored Tirtha Kumari Rai, 45, by presenting her with cash, which was claimed to have influenced voters. On the same occasion, UML leader and Chairperson of Shahidbhumi Rural Municipality Manoj Rai also provided her with Rs. 5,000 in cash as encouragement.
Former State Minister of Koshi Province and Provincial Assembly Member Niran Rai, along with Vice-Chairperson of Shahidbhumi Rural Municipality Ratnashwori Rai, were also present with former minister Rai.
Since Rai is a CPN-UML candidate in the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, a complaint was lodged accusing him of attempting to influence voters in violation of the election code of conduct. Chief Election Officer Harishchandra Ingnam concluded that Rai had violated the election code and issued a one-time warning, according to Information Officer Indra Kumar Yonghang. Yonghang stated that distributing money constitutes a violation of the code and that Rai has been cautioned not to repeat such actions.
According to Sub-section (1) of Section 48 of the Election Code of Conduct 2025 issued by the Election Commission, violations may result in a fine of up to Rs. 100,000 or even cancellation of candidacy.