Nepal · Legislation
Legislation and primary sources
Where to find the authoritative text of the law in Nepal, and how to confirm it is still in force.
Sources of law, ranked
- The Constitution of 2015
- Supreme; inconsistent law is void under Article 133.
- Federal, provincial and local legislation
- Three legislative tiers with allocated competences.
- The Civil Code and Criminal Code 2017
- Replaced the Muluki Ain; in force since August 2018.
- Supreme Court precedent
- Binding on subordinate courts and a formal source of law.
- Custom
- Recognised where consistent with the Constitution and codified law.
The legislative process
Bills pass both federal houses, except money bills which originate in the House of Representatives; the President must assent. Constitutional amendment requires a two-thirds majority in both houses and, where a provision affects provincial boundaries or powers, the consent of a majority of provincial assemblies. Provinces and local units legislate within their own schedules.
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