'No need of prior approval for poll security deployment'

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 12: Inspector General of the Armed Police Force (APF) Nepal, Raju Aryal, has instructed personnel to mobilise immediately during the election period as required by the security situation, without waiting for prior approval.

IGP Aryal said that if assistance is needed by Nepal Police or other officials during the elections, APF personnel should respond at once and inform headquarters afterwards rather than wait for orders from above.

While reviewing election security arrangements in various districts of Gandaki Province on February 10 and 11, IG Aryal said, “Just as we are automatically deployed during disasters such as earthquakes, personnel should likewise mobilise immediately during elections if security forces from other agencies or election staff require support. Headquarters can be informed after deployment.”

He emphasised that officers must not delay action while awaiting formal instructions. “Do not wait for orders. Take immediate security action and report afterwards. There is no need to wait for clearance, this is the permanent order to you all from my side,” he directed.

The APF chief also instructed election security personnel deployed under APF Nepal No. 24 Kalika Battalion, Kaski, to carry out their duties with full confidence.

During visits to APF units in Syangja and Palpa districts, Aryal assessed election security preparedness and held discussions at the District Administration Office in Syangja with the Chief District Officer and members of the district-level security committee.

Stressing the need for coordination and cooperation among all security agencies to thwart any attempts to disrupt the elections, he directed officials to ensure there is no shortcoming in safeguarding voters and maintaining a free and fair electoral process.

Aryal also visited APF Nepal No. 30 Company in Waling, Syangja, the election security base in Galyang, and APF Nepal No. 35 Company in Palpa, where he reviewed preparations and issued further instructions. On Wednesday, he also received updates on law and order and election preparations in Gulmi district. The IGP has conducted on-site inspections and monitoring of election readiness in Lumbini Province as well.

Meanwhile, Additional Inspector General of APF, Banshiraj Dahal, inspected units under No. 7 Brigade in Sudurpaschim Province and reviewed election security arrangements.