Consultancy owner Pokharel accused of acquiring multi-million rupee properties through loan fraud

Biratnagar – Krishna Hari Pokharel, operator of Himagun Consultancy in Biratnagar, has come under investigation following multiple allegations of fraudulently acquiring high-value real estate under the pretext of settling small-scale bank loans. Victims claim that Pokharel exploited financial distress, ultimately transferring properties worth tens of millions of rupees into his wife's name.

At the center of the controversy is a two-and-a-half-storey house located in Ward 11 of Biratnagar Metropolitan City. The property, constructed on approximately 17 dhur of land and currently valued at over NPR 40 million, was originally owned by Tarakumar Tumruk. Tumruk had mortgaged the house to NMB Bank to secure a loan of NPR 8.5 million.

According to Tumruk, Pokharel—an acquaintance—offered to pay off the bank loan with the assurance of selling the property at a better price in the future. However, after settling the loan, Pokharel reportedly transferred the property to his wife, Binita Dhakal, effectively claiming ownership while paying only the loan amount.

A similar case has been reported in Damak, Jhapa, where Kumari Lawati alleges that Pokharel used the same method to acquire her 2 kattha and 8 dhur of land. Pokharel initially settled a portion of her bank debt but later refused to return the property, demanding exorbitant interest charges of up to 24 percent. Lawati now finds herself displaced and seeking judicial intervention.
When contacted for comment, Pokharel denied all accusations. “I have not taken anyone’s property. I operate an engineering consultancy that conducts property valuations for collateral purposes. I act strictly within the law,” he said.

Despite his denial, multiple property owners from Morang, Sunsari, and Jhapa have come forward with similar complaints, painting a broader picture of alleged systemic abuse of financial vulnerability.

Pokharel, who is said to wield considerable influence in local banking and political circles, has also been accused of manipulating property valuations through his consultancy to the detriment of both individual clients and lending institutions. Some banks are reportedly reviewing cases where his assessments were involved.

In an additional twist, sources close to Pokharel’s extended family report that he has even succeeded in transferring family-owned properties into his wife’s name, leading to ongoing court disputes over inheritance rights.
A formal complaint has been filed with the Department of Money Laundering Investigation (DMLI), further intensifying scrutiny. Authorities have yet to publicly confirm the progress of the investigation.

Many victims remain silent due to fear of Pokharel’s wealth, influence, and political connections. His stronghold on various institutions has left victims with no choice but to submit. It is imperative that the concerned authorities take this issue seriously so that justice may be served for those affected.

As the case unfolds, it underscores growing concerns about accountability in Nepal’s expanding real estate sector and the need for stronger legal safeguards against financial exploitation.