Nepal’s NRN Australia Embroiled in Fake Membership Row

A dispute over fake membership distribution and last year’s election has reached the Supreme Court of Victoria, Australia, involving the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Australia.

The case was filed by Sunrise Gyawali, the plaintiff, on 5 March 2026, and the court has ordered both parties to submit evidence and necessary documents to support their claims.

According to the court’s order, the plaintiff must submit evidence by 18 September 2026, while NRNA Australia must submit its documents and evidence by 25 September 2026. The court has also directed that mediation between the two parties be completed by 20 November 2026, and the mediator must submit their report to the court by 27 November 2026.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for 30 November 2026. Gyawali, the plaintiff, stated that he chose the mediation path to avoid a lengthy and costly court process that would burden both parties, as NRNA Australia is a social organization.

This dispute has garnered significant attention, as NRNA is a representative organization of non-resident Nepalis recognized by the Government of Nepal. If the court finds evidence of fake membership distribution or irregularities in the election process, it could negatively impact not only NRNA Australia’s credibility but also the trust and reputation of the Nepali community and Nepal internationally.

The final outcome of the case will be determined by the court’s decision.