High security measures in place for Bajura elections, drones and helicopters on standby

Dhangadhi: Extensive security arrangements have been put in place for the upcoming elections in the hilly district of Bajura in Sudurpaschim Province. The local administration has placed the district on high security alert, citing a history of clashes, booth capture and election-related violence.

Security agencies have developed a strategy based on lessons learned from past weaknesses, increasing manpower and incorporating modern technology to monitor polling stations. Since 2048, most elections in Bajura have witnessed some form of unrest. Key challenges have included attempts to capture polling stations along party lines, preventing opposition voters from reaching booths and casting fraudulent votes in the presence of officials.

According to personnel deployed during previous elections, security forces and election staff were often unable to intervene effectively even when irregularities occurred openly. During the 2079 BS House of Representatives elections, two youths lost their lives in Bajura. Incidents of fake voting have also been reported in the neighboring district of Bajhang.

The Sudurpaschim Provincial Police Office has announced the implementation of a special security plan to prevent potential disturbances in the district. Provincial Police Chief DIG Om Bahadur Rana stated that Bajura has been given high security priority.

Authorities have mobilized security personnel to monitor suspicious activities through drone and CCTV surveillance and to respond immediately if required. Helicopters have also been kept on standby to provide rapid assistance in case of emergencies.