IGP calls for security analysis before polls

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 14: Inspector General of Nepal Police (IGP) Dan Bahadur Karki has instructed police personnel to analyse security sensitivities and ensure effective deployment in order to maintain law and order in society and address potential challenges that may arise during the elections.

Addressing police officers virtually from the Nepal Police Headquarters on Friday, IGP Karki issued directives concerning election-related security sensitivities and other contemporary issues.

He emphasised that the upcoming elections should be regarded as a national commitment and called for the formulation of a reliable security plan to ensure that the polls are conducted in a free, fair and fear-free environment. 

IGP Karki directed personnel to carry out their duties flawlessly within their respective jurisdictions, maintaining continuous coordination and collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders.

The IGP placed particular emphasis on prioritising intelligence gathering to identify and bring to justice those involved in violations of the election code of conduct and other undesirable activities. 

He urged officers to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism, neutrality, honesty and commitment while fulfilling their responsibilities during the election period.

Addressing concerns of election police personnel, IGP Karki also stressed the need for greater sensitivity in conduct and behaviour towards them. He called for special attention to their effective mobilisation and proper management, including additional officers deployed to assist during the election period, ensuring results-oriented operations.

He further instructed officers to prioritise intelligence collection, analysis and contingency rehearsals to remain prepared for any unforeseen incidents in any constituency. Maintaining a strong police presence to deter criminal activities, enhancing joint operations with other security agencies, and strengthening vigilance at border points were also highlighted as key measures.

IGP Karki directed the implementation of special security plans to curb potential criminal activities at border crossings, apprehend absconding suspects and seize illegal firearms.

On the occasion, IGP Karki also held discussions with chiefs of all seven Provincial Police Offices on current issues, reviewing the security situation within the provinces and preparations for the forthcoming elections.

The virtual programme was attended by Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), senior police officers, and representatives from the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, all seven Provincial Police Offices, Nepal Police Provincial Offices, Highway Security and Traffic Management Offices, Provincial Police Training Centres, Special Security Units, Provincial Police Units, District Police Ranges and District Police Offices, among others.