KATHMANDU: Targeting the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, the Nepal Army has stepped up its security operations as part of nationwide election preparedness.

The Army has already begun patrolling and monitoring duties and is actively engaged in securing sensitive locations, including key government and public installations, airports, and prisons. Under the election security framework, the Army is initially designated to operate in the third or outer security tier. However, it may be deployed in any tier depending on risk assessments and prevailing circumstances.

The current security structure places the Nepal Police and Election Police in the first tier, the Armed Police Force and Election Police in the second tier, and the Army in the third tier. Authorities have clarified that deployment can be adjusted in coordination with the Chief District Officer, Election Officer, and polling station officials based on security needs.

In a video message on election security, the Army stated that in highly sensitive areas, it may be deployed in the first tier from the outset if required, indicating heightened vigilance in high-risk locations.

According to Brigadier General Manoj Thapa, Director of the Directorate of Military Operations, Army personnel will be mobilized to ensure peace and security throughout the election period. He stated that the Army is committed to conducting the elections smoothly and in line with public expectations by fully utilizing its available resources and capabilities.