KATHMANDU: The Supreme Court has ordered the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) to either produce industrialist Shekhar Golchha or submit a written response within 24 hours in a habeas corpus petition challenging his detention.

A single bench of Justice Nripadhwaj Niraula issued the order after hearing a petition filed by Seema Golchha, who has alleged that her husband is being held in unlawful detention and sought his immediate release.

The court directed the CIB to respond through the Office of the Attorney General within the stipulated time after receiving notice, and also instructed that copies of the petition be served to the concerned authorities.

It further ordered that once the response is submitted or the deadline expires, the investigation file and related custody documents be presented before the court.

Golchha was arrested by the CIB on April 23 and had earlier been granted three more days of custody by the Kathmandu District Court for investigation.