KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Sushila Karki today sought an update on the progress of efforts to reclaim the misappropriated land belonging to the Tribhuvan University.

The Prime Minister held discussions with TU Vice Chancellor Prof Deepak Aryal, Rector Prof Khadga KC, and Registrar Prof Kedar Prasad Rijal, in the presence of Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal, Education Minister Mahabir Pun, and Communications and Information Minister Jagadish Kharel.

Chief Secretary Eaknarayan Aryal and office-bearers of the Land Inquiry Committee were also present.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Karki sought updates on the committee’s progress so far. TU officials emphasized their need for government support to remove those illegally occupying TU land and to maintain proper records of the misappropriated property.

Home Minister Aryal advised TU officials to take initiative in documenting the university’s land and to file separate complaints with the CIB and other relevant authorities if any portion of the land had been claimed through forgery.

He highlighted that the CIB has the expertise and experience to handle cases of land misappropriation.

Chief Secretary Aryal noted that 60 percent of the tasks highlighted in the committee’s report could be handled by the committee itself and that the government should not be solely relied upon for results. Education Minister Pun urged the committee to avoid delays and to promptly implement feasible measures. He also proposed forming a taskforce representing all concerned bodies to streamline the process.

Prime Minister Karki instructed that the practice of unrelated organizations and individuals occupying, forcibly encroaching upon, or selling Tribhuvan University land must be intervened immediately. She further directed that anyone found guilty should be brought to justice without delay.