Amidst increased security challenges, the Armed Police Force has deployed four additional inspector generals to assess the situation on the ground.

The decision to deploy high-level APF officials comes at a time when the security situation remains sensitive in many Tarai districts and the Hills ahead of the local level elections.

The Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal, which was formed after the merger of six Madhes-based forces, has announced a general strike in the Tarai districts from June 24 with an aim to foil the elections. The protest programme of the RJP-N, authorities believe, is a major security concern. Increased activities of the Communist Party of Nepal led by Netra Bikram Chand and illegal arms have also been deemed as threats to the polls.

According to the APF, AIGs Prakash Ojha, Sailendra Khanal, Pushpa Ram KC and Ram Sharan Poudel will tour the 38 districts of Province 1, Province 5 and Province 7 where the vote will be held on June 28.

The AIGs have been tasked with assessing the security situation and coordinating with Nepal Police. “In case of any flaws seen during the field inspection, the AIGs will immediately direct corrective measures,” the APF said in a statement.

Senior Superintendent of Police Raju Aryal, spokesperson for the APF, said the police officials on the ground would also be motivated by the presence of senior officials.

Security became prime concern after a bomb went off injuring nine people in Vadganga Municipality of Kapilvastu district on Sunday during candidate nomination. Also, clashes erupted in various districts. CPN-UML member Hansa Rawat died when supporters of the party clashed with Nepali Congress cadres at Chhededaha Village Council in Bajura district on Sunday.

Except for Rawat’s death, no other fatalities have occurred in clashes or protests, the Home Ministry said. However, there have been seizures of detonators and explosive devices from the Tarai districts. On June 7, police arrested two CPN cadres with improvised explosive devices from Rautahat. Dilip Thapa and Tara Thapa of Jhapa were arrested with 30 detonators and fuses.

While the government plans to deploy over 150,000 security personnel, the APF said it will mobilise 20,615 members. According to the Force, 7,662 personnel will be deployed in Province 1; 7,791 in Province 5; and 3,788 in Province 7. Armed police personnel have been deployed in all the 334 offices of the election officers.