How Nepal’s New Pact With India Will Tackle Cross-Border Crime

Nepal has formally tabled the “Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters” agreement with India in its House of Representatives. The pact, signed earlier this year, is designed to improve cooperation between the two countries in criminal investigations and judicial processes.

Presenting the agreement, Law Minister Sobita Gautam told Parliament that the move is part of a formal process to notify lawmakers and move toward implementation.

Why was this agreement needed?

For years, both Nepal and India have struggled with legal and administrative hurdles in dealing with cross-border crimes. Without a formal framework, authorities faced delays in gathering evidence, tracking criminals, and recovering illicit assets.

As Gautam explained: “The main objective of the agreement is to make judicial proceedings, including investigation and prosecution of criminal offences, between the two contracting states effective and convenient through mutual legal assistance. In the absence of this agreement, there were problems in investigating crimes committed in one country and bringing evidence and documents, returning assets hidden in another country through corruption, and punishing criminals. However, after the implementation of this agreement, it will also contribute to punishing criminals and bringing back assets earned from crime.”

What changes after the pact comes into force?

Once implemented, the agreement will make it easier for both countries to share evidence, exchange information, and coordinate investigations. It also creates a structured legal pathway for cooperation between courts, law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors.

The pact is expected to reduce delays and improve the efficiency of judicial processes involving cross-border elements.

Which crimes will the agreement target?

The agreement has a wide scope and is aimed at tackling serious transnational crimes. These include human trafficking, drug trafficking, financial crimes, terrorism-related offences, and organised crime.

It also strengthens efforts related to anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, areas where cross-border coordination is critical.

How did the agreement come about?

The pact is the result of years of negotiations between the two countries. It was initially agreed upon during a Home Secretary-level meeting in New Delhi in July last year and later authorised by Nepal’s Cabinet in October 2025.

Its presentation in Parliament marks a key step toward full implementation.

Why is this significant for regional security?

This agreement is seen as a major step in strengthening bilateral cooperation between Nepal and India. By formalising legal assistance, it helps both countries respond more effectively to crimes that cross borders.

It also signals a broader commitment to tackling organised crime and financial wrongdoing in the region, while improving the overall efficiency of justice delivery systems.

(With inputs from ANI)