Nepal Police Arrest Two for Online Defamation of RPP lawmaker Khushbu Oli

Nepal Police have taken decisive action by arresting two individuals accused of defaming Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) lawmaker Khushbu Oli, marking a significant step in combating online character assassination in the country.

The arrests were made after Oli filed a formal complaint at the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau in Bhotahiti, Kathmandu, alleging a coordinated campaign of misinformation and abuse against her on social media platforms. She specifically identified multiple Facebook pages, TikTok accounts, and YouTube channels as sources spreading baseless content designed to damage her reputation.

Zero-Tolerance Stance on Cyber Abuse

Oli has adopted a zero-tolerance approach toward online threats, violent remarks, and abusive behavior, stating that such conduct cannot be accepted under any circumstances. She filed the complaint following what she described as a coordinated online attack that emerged after she raised specific issues in Parliament.

Police officials confirmed that the two arrested individuals are being held while investigations continue. Authorities are currently searching for other individuals involved in the alleged defamation campaign, indicating that the case may involve a broader network of offenders.

Context: Rising Cyber Harassment in Nepal

This case is part of a growing trend of cyber harassment targeting Nepali public figures and political supporters. Recently, Amisha Parajuli, a supporter of ousted former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, also filed a complaint with the Cyber Bureau after facing similar character attacks and threats from Rastriya Swatantra Party supporters.

Khushbu Oli, born in 1990, is a former model, beauty pageant titleholder, and social worker who now serves as a member of parliament for the RPP. Her transition from modeling to politics has made her a prominent figure, but also a frequent target of online scrutiny.

What Happens Next?

Legal proceedings against the arrested individuals will continue as per Nepali law. The Cyber Bureau is expected to review the digital evidence and identify all parties responsible for the coordinated misinformation campaign. As Nepal continues to strengthen its cyber laws, this case could serve as a precedent for how authorities handle online defamation of public officials.