80,000 army personnel to be mobilized in upcoming HoR elections
The plan has also received clearance from the National Security Council.
KATHMANDU: The Nepal Army is set to deploy around 80,000 personnel for the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21 (March 5), officials confirmed.
Army Assistant Colonel and spokesperson Rajaram Basnet stated that the Integrated Security Plan 2082, approved by the government and endorsed by the President, will guide the military’s deployment. “According to the plan, army personnel will begin field operations one month prior to the election,” he added.
The plan has also received clearance from the National Security Council.
The army will operate in three phases, starting with securing the printing of ballots and other pre-election responsibilities, followed by safeguarding key infrastructure, including airports and prisons, in coordination with Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force.
In preparation for a free, fair, and secure election, the army will conduct integrated training and exercises at all levels in coordination with four security agencies and district administrations
On polling day, army personnel will be deployed in the third layer of security to ensure the safety of political parties, candidates, voters, and election staff.
As in previous elections, the army will set up security posts across the country.
After voting concludes, it will also be responsible for transporting ballot boxes and securing counting centers.
Provincial-level security workshops are currently underway, with feedback from these sessions helping the government enhance security measures.
The Nepal Army emphasized that it is fully prepared to provide election security in close coordination with local administrations and elected representatives, ensuring a safe and orderly process.
