Kathmandu: A provincial-level security seminar focusing on strategies to conduct the upcoming House of Representatives elections in a clean, fair and fear-free environment has concluded.

The seminar, which began in Rupandehi of Lumbini Province on November 21, concluded in Janakpur of Madhesh Province on Tuesday. The annual event was jointly organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the respective provincial governments, with a strong focus on internal security and election preparedness.

Government Commitment to Timely Elections
Addressing the concluding session in Janakpur, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding the elections on the scheduled date. He directed all four security agencies to remain on high alert and ensure that the polls are conducted peacefully and without rigging.

“The government is fully determined to conduct the elections as scheduled,” Minister Aryal said, emphasizing the need for coordinated and vigilant security arrangements.

Integrated Security Plan in Effect
The government has already enforced the ‘Integrated Security Plan–2082’ for the elections scheduled for February 21. Alongside this, the procedures for the recruitment and mobilization of election police have been approved and are currently being implemented.

Large-Scale Deployment of Security Personnel
A significant number of security personnel will be mobilized for election security. Nepal Police has initiated the selection process for 133,980 election police officers. Additionally, around 88,000 personnel from the Nepal Army, 77,000 from Nepal Police, and approximately 34,000 from the Armed Police Force will be deployed nationwide.

Polling Stations Classified by Risk
Based on potential security challenges, Nepal Police has classified polling stations across the country to strengthen targeted security arrangements. Of the total polling stations, 2,845 have been categorized as normal, 4,442 as sensitive, and 3,680 as highly sensitive.

Authorities say the measures are aimed at ensuring a secure environment so that voters can exercise their franchise without fear.