KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu District Court has ordered the pre-trial detention of former Madhesh Province Chief Rajesh Jha (also known as Ahiraj) in connection with a rape case.

Jha is accused of repeatedly raping a young woman who worked as a domestic helper at his residence.

Based on a complaint filed on February 15, 2025, police arrested him from Kathmandu on July 20, 2025.

The District Government Attorney’s Office filed the case under Section 219(2)(E) of the Criminal Code, seeking a sentence of 7 to 10 years.

A fine of Rs 300,000 was also demanded under clause 219(3A)(C).

The alleged victim, a minor at the time, had initially reported the abuse to the National Women Commission and later filed a formal complaint with Kathmandu police on January 23, 2025.

She accused Jha of sexual and psychological abuse since she was 17. Authorities began a formal investigation after her complaint was registered.

Jha, who had fled to India after the first complaint, is known for branding himself as a nationalist and Madhesh-based activist.

He was appointed Madhesh Province Chief in March 2020.