The Election Commission of Nepal on Wednesday announced a series of stringent measures, including a nationwide ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol, ahead of the March 5 general election.
According to an official notification, the prohibition on alcoholic beverages will come into force seven days before polling day and remain in effect until the final results are declared. The commission said the move is aimed at ensuring a free, fair and peaceful voting process.
In addition, authorities have been directed to seal the Nepal–India border 72 hours prior to the start of voting to prevent any cross-border movement that could disrupt the electoral process.
A mandatory “silent period” will begin at midnight on March 2, after which all forms of election campaigning will be barred. The commission warned that candidates or parties violating the code of conduct during this period will face legal action.
Vehicular movement will also face tight restrictions. Except for essential services such as ambulances, fire brigades, telecom and electricity maintenance vehicles, all transport will be halted from midnight of March 4 until polling concludes on March 5. Special vehicle passes will be issued only for emergency purposes, and no vehicle will be allowed to operate without authorisation.
However, domestic and international flights will continue as scheduled on election day. Arrangements have been made to facilitate the movement of air passengers on the basis of valid tickets.
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Meanwhile, the Nepal Army said it has activated a three-phase integrated security strategy for the polls. The plan includes aerial surveillance and measures to detect and neutralise suspicious objects to maintain security nationwide.
Approximately 18.9 million registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots to elect 275 members of the House of Representatives. Polling will take place between 7 am and 5 pm on March 5.
