Jun 28, Kathmandu - The individual accused of abusing children at the International Krishna Balarama Ashram (ISKON) in Ward 5 of Buddhanilkantha Municipality has been released on bail after serving a one-year prison sentence. The suspect was released on a surety bond of NPR 50,000.

According to legal proceedings, Suraj Krishna Shrestha, the director of the organization, was convicted of child abuse charges. The Supreme Court issued a final order sentencing him to one year in prison and a fine. However, under the law, he was allowed to serve his sentence outside of jail while continuing to face trial, as is permitted for first-time offenders with a sentence of up to one year.

Shrestha’s wife, Devina Saakh, also had a preventive detention writ filed against her in the Supreme Court. The court's bench, consisting of Judges Abdulaziz Musalman and Shanti Singh Thapa, canceled her detention order and ordered her release, citing legal provisions that allow offenders to serve their sentences outside prison in certain cases.

The allegations against Shrestha stem from accusations by the parents of the children, who work at the same organization’s canteen, that he abused children under his care. The parents had filed a police report with the authorities.

According to Kathmandu Police spokesperson SP Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, the investigation is ongoing, and further evidence or culpability could lead to additional legal action. 

“Every case of child abuse is thoroughly and seriously investigated. If evidence is found, appropriate action will be taken,” Bhattarai stated.