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Kathmandu: Nepal’s Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has initiated an investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the country’s participation in the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
According to shilaptra.com The probe follows complaints alleging financial misconduct in the purchase of Nepal’s promotional exhibition stall, jointly acquired by the Film Development Board and the Nepal Tourism Board.
A complaint was first lodged with the Hello Sarkar grievance portal on May 19, followed by a formal complaint to the CIAA on May 27, requesting an investigation into the procurement process and the use of public funds.
Following the complaint, the CIAA sought relevant documents from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, which subsequently instructed the Film Development Board on June 23 to review the matter and submit the required information.
Ministry spokesperson Uday Bahadur Rana Magar said he was still gathering details regarding the CIAA’s correspondence before making an official comment.
Nepal participates in the Cannes Film Festival each year by operating a promotional stall aimed at showcasing Nepali cinema to the international market.
However, controversy erupted after the official Cannes-selected Nepali film ‘Elephants in the Fog’ was reportedly excluded from the promotional display, while posters for ‘Eklo’, starring Film Development Board Chairman Dinesh DC, were prominently featured.
Critics alleged that the chairman gave preferential treatment to a film in which he acted, raising concerns over conflict of interest and misuse of public resources.
The controversy intensified after ‘Elephants in the Fog’ went on to win the Jury Award at Cannes, prompting further criticism over the government’s promotional priorities.
The CIAA investigation is expected to examine the stall procurement process, spending decisions, and the selection of promotional materials displayed at the festival.
