KATHMANDU — President Ramchandra Paudel has relieved Madhes Province Chief Sumitra Subedi Bhandari of her duties following the government’s formal recommendation. The decision was made public on Tuesday through an official notice from the Office of the President.
According to spokesperson Pradeep Kumar Koirala, the President’s Office stated that Bhandari was removed under Article 165 (1)(b) of the Constitution of Nepal. The move follows a Cabinet decision made on Monday, which recommended her dismissal in line with constitutional provisions.
Bhandari had faced intense criticism after she administered the oath of office to Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Yadav inside a hotel in Bardibas during early hours, bypassing conventional protocol. The incident had sparked nationwide debate over the propriety and legality of her action.
In the same Cabinet meeting, the government proposed the appointment of Surendra Labh as the new Chief of Madhes Province. The decision is expected to be implemented shortly, signaling a new phase in the province’s political administration.
