KATHMANDU: The Nepal Bar Association (NBA) staged a symbolic lantern protest at its office premises today, expressing serious concern over escalating tensions at the Supreme Court and the court administration’s refusal to register writ petitions.

This demonstration followed reports that court staff yesterday declined to execute an order by Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla, who had directed the registration of petitions challenging the Constitutional Council’s recommendation of Manoj Kumar Sharma as the next Chief Justice.

Describing the situation as a direct threat to citizens’ access to justice, the NBA moved forward with the protest today following a central executive committee meeting.

Meanwhile, sharp divisions emerged within the Parliamentary Hearing Committee today regarding the timeline for Sharma’s confirmation process.

While lawmakers from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) advocated for a fast-track hearing to avoid unnecessary delays, opposition members urged caution today and warned against a rushed process.

The opposition lawmakers called for a meticulous, multi-day review of public complaints and a thorough evaluation of Sharma’s judicial vision, splitting the committee today between those favoring immediate questioning and those supporting a phased approach.

Amid these ongoing legislative debates, Sharma formally presented an 18-point action plan to the committee today, pledging comprehensive judicial reforms aimed at modernizing the legal system and eliminating deep-seated backlogs.

His proposal promises to clear all long-pending Supreme Court cases within 18 months through a differential case management system.

Additionally, Sharma committed to accelerating the digitalization of the judiciary by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) tools, expanding virtual hearings, and introducing stronger anti-corruption measures to restore public trust in the courts.