Heavyweight Leaders and Security Challenges in Kailali

Dhangadhi: The arrival of heavyweight leaders from major political parties for election campaigning has begun in Kailali. Program schedules have been set for RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane and senior leader Balendra Shah, who have gained significant attention in the current political climate, to attend a mass meeting in Dhangadhi today, Wednesday. The arrival of such prominent leaders has added to the security challenges for the police.

According to DSP Yogendra Timilsina, spokesperson for the District Police Office Kailali, elections naturally carry security risks. He noted that the presence of heavyweight leaders further intensifies these challenges.

"Security threats can arise at any time during an election," Timilsina said. "Furthermore, large events featuring top-tier leaders increase the burden on security management. Currently, all three security agencies are coordinating with one another to address these challenges."

Considering the district's security, one thousand police officers and 3,500 election police personnel have been deployed. According to DSP Timilsina, the Armed Police Force has also mobilized personnel based on similar estimates. He mentioned that the district security mechanism has prepared a plan to coordinate with the Nepali Army if necessary.

"The district security mechanism has already finalized the election security plan," he stated. "Accordingly, security personnel including investigative police, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and the Nepali Army have been deployed in coordination."

Kailali shares a 101-kilometer border with India in its eastern region. The open border also presents a security challenge. Additionally, there are concerns that security risks could increase during this election due to prisoners who escaped and weapons that were looted during the Gen-Z movement on Bhadra 23 and 24. 

However, the police have stated that adequate security arrangements have been made to face these challenges. "The police are deployed for election security with high morale," DSP Timilsina said. "We are ready to face all types of security challenges."