On March 29, Janaki Dhugana, age 37, was arrested by police in the Madi Municipality of Chitwan for allegedly creating misleading information about COVID-19.  Local police claim Dhugana was delusional because she reportedly said, “If you believe in Jesus and follow Christianity, you will not get the coronavirus.” Charges of indecent behavior under Section 118 of Nepal’s Civil Criminal Code were file against Dhugana.

According to local pastors contacted by International Christian Concern (ICC), Dhugana has been released from police custody. However, Dhugana has been required to pay a penalty of 5,000 rupees (approximately $41.00 USD) for her alleged crime.

Police in Nepal arrest Pastor for touting healing prayer amid Coronavirus pandemic