Human Rights Watch has said that the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) should scrupulously follow the Supreme Court (SC) order to abide by proper procedures while conducting its investigation into journalist and activist Kanak Mani Dixit.

“The Supreme Court’s order to release Dixit once again shows that the country’s highest court stands as the last guardian against

executive overreach and the breakdown of the rule

of law,” a statement by HRW quoted Brad Adams, Asia director of the rights body, as saying. “While the CIAA has every right to conduct its investigations independently, it must do so without abusing its own extraordinary authority, especially on detention, and comply with this directive from the country’s highest court.”

Dixit was taken into custody by the CIAA on April 22 on charge of his involvement in corruption as the chairman of Sajha Yatayat.

The Special Court on April 24 had sent him in 10-day judicial custody.

In response to a habeas corpus case filed by Dixit’s wife Shanta, the SC on May 2 ordered the anti-graft body to release Dixit on general date.

“The CIAA has an important job to do, but Nepali government authorities should be extremely careful not to take action that looks like retribution against critics,” said Adams. “The CIAA should now meticulously ensure that due process of law is followed in this case.”