Government assures uninterrupted elections despite security concerns: Home Minister Aryal

Far West: Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has stated that the upcoming election will not be disrupted by issues related to looted weapons or escaped prisoners. Speaking at the Far West provincial-level security seminar held in Dhangadhi today, he said these matters—stemming from the Genji movement on Bhadra 23 and 24—should not be exaggerated.

He informed that 727 weapons looted during the movement have already been recovered, while 4,552 escaped prisoners are still yet to be returned. An operation has been launched to arrest the remaining escapees, and additional looted weapons are in the process of being recovered.

Noting that elections are essential in a democratic system, he said, “The government has given priority to dialogue, consultation and discussion. We are listening to everyone without bias. We have entered the election process by incorporating everyone’s concerns.” He emphasized that the government’s main objective is to uphold the rule of law, ensure an interference-free administration and conduct timely, fair and transparent elections.

Home Minister Aryal added that the Home Administration is working sincerely to address peace and security, crime control, good governance and effective service delivery following the demands raised by youth against misgovernance and the incidents of Bhadra 23 and 24.

Highlighting strengthened relations between citizens and security personnel, he said, “Only if the morale of security personnel is high will the morale of the citizens and the nation also be high.” He also noted that the role of the provincial government is crucial in creating a favorable environment for timely elections.

Sudurpaschim Province Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah said the provincial government is committed to ensuring an environment conducive to elections. “Since the country can be steered in the right direction through elections, it is necessary for everyone to unite and help create the right environment,” he said.

Minister for Internal Affairs and Law Hira Sarki stated that the Government of Nepal must ensure proper security by coordinating with all parties. The seminar is being chaired by Rameshwor Dangal, Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The event is attended by the Inspector General of Nepal Police, the Inspector General of Armed Police Force, the Chief of the National Investigation Department, Nepal Army officers, the Commander of the Nepal Army Sudurpaschim Division Headquarters, officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Chief District Officers from all nine districts of the province and heads of various security agencies. The seminar will address provincial-level security challenges and related issues.