Butwal, Jan. 27 -- The Rupandehi District Court on Sunday granted bail to Rastriya Swatantra Party chief Rabi Lamichhane, accused of misappropriating funds from the Supreme Credit and Savings Cooperative, on a bail of Rs10 million. The bench of Judge Prahlad Kumar Yogi announced bail after a days-long detention hearing.

Government prosecutors argued for Lamichhane's judicial detention, citing concerns that after the release former home minister Lamichhane may interfere with the justice process. However, Lamichhane's legal team countered these claims, alleging political retaliation against him.

The allegations against Lamichhane stem from irregularities in cooperative funds, including payments made via cheques signed by Lamichhane, quest...