Biratnagar, Nepal – A group of more than a dozen victims has filed a joint complaint at the Morang District Administration Office against Sanjay Prasad Rouniyar, infamously known as ‘Montu,’ accusing him of continuing to terrorize locals in the name of illegal moneylending, known as meter-byaaj (loan sharking).
Rouniyar had previously served 16 months in jail on charges of fraud and unlawful financial gain but was acquitted by the Morang District Court in May 2022. Now, locals claim he has resumed his old tactics, creating fear and pressuring individuals to pay large sums of money.
According to Amit Kumar Yadav, a resident of Sunbarshi Municipality-4, Montu began harassing them again after his release, sending threatening letters demanding repayment for previously disputed land transactions. “He uses legal threats and abusive behavior to mentally pressure us,” said Yadav.
Twelve individuals have now formally complained to the administration, stating that Montu has been sending postal letters, making intimidating phone calls, and using middlemen to collect money forcefully. The letters allegedly warn recipients of legal consequences if they do not pay.
Following the complaint, the Morang District Administration has initiated legal proceedings. Chief District Officer Indra Dev Yadav confirmed that both parties have been summoned for discussions to uncover the facts and determine necessary action.
A letter (No. 11803) has been sent to the District Police Office requesting Montu’s presence for inquiry regarding the allegations of illicit financial dealings.
Montu was previously arrested on December 14, 2020, after 17 victims accused him of fraudulent practices. Police investigations found he had unlawfully obtained nearly NPR 19.3 million. He was charged with fraud and criminal gain, but the court cleared him in May 2022.
Now, two years after his release, victims allege he has resumed his predatory behavior. One letter reportedly claims that the “refund from returned land” remains unpaid, demanding additional money.
“We fear going through the same pain again,” said one of the complainants. “Even after jail time, his mindset and methods haven’t changed.”
The case has once again brought attention to the deep-rooted issue of meter-byaaj in Nepal and the need for stronger action against loan sharks exploiting vulnerable citizens.
