Principle of res-judicata in Nepal
Res judicata is a core procedural principle in Nepalese law that prohibits re-litigation of matters already decided by a competent court. Derived from the Latin for "a matter judged," it ensures legal certainty, judicial efficiency, and protection against repeated lawsuits. The Muluki Civil Procedure Code outlines when res judicata applies, requiring a final judgment, jurisdiction, merit-based decision, and identity of parties and claims. This doctrine plays a vital role in upholding the integrity of Nepal’s legal system by discouraging redundant claims and safeguarding the finality of court decisions.