Security tightened in Jhapa–5 constituency

By Our Correspondent,Damak, Feb. 2: The security arrangement in Jhapa Constituency No. 5 has been tightened amid growing public and political attention, according to Jhapa District Police Chief and (SP) Basundhara Khadka.

Addressing concerns over safety, Khadka urged candidates and members of their affiliated political parties not to worry about security. She said anyone facing a potential security threat or feeling unsafe should inform the police without hesitation, assuring that no shortcomings would be allowed in security arrangements.

Khadka said that special police teams have already been deployed in Jhapa–5. During a discussion held in Damak, representatives of political parties expressed fears that individuals involved in arson attacks on their homes and government offices in the past are now actively participating in election campaigns, posing security risks.

Concerns were also raised over unsafe activities during door-to-door campaigning and election rallies, as well as menacing expressions circulating on social media. Following these concerns, Khadka called on all stakeholders to remain assured, stating that reliable and effective security measures have been put in place.

She clarified that security has been strengthened across the district in line with an integrated security plan. Given that Jhapa–5 has become a centre of national attention, special priority has been given to security in the constituency. Khadka noted that the increasing presence of security personnel on the streets reflects enhanced vigilance as the election date approaches.

Emphasising that Jhapa–5 is under particular public scrutiny, she reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that there would be no lapse in security. She also stressed that a free and fear-free election cannot be ensured by police force alone, highlighting the important role of all stakeholders in maintaining a peaceful environment.

Several high-profile candidates are currently campaigning in the constituency, including CPN-UML Chairperson and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, senior Rastriya Swatantra Party leader and former Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah, Nepali Congress leader Basundhara Poudel, CPN leader Ranjit Tamang, and Rastriya Prajatantra Party candidate Laxmi Sangraula.