Feb 26, Kathmandu - The Election Commission of Nepal has announced a comprehensive ban on public and private vehicle operations from midnight on Falgun 20 until the completion of voting in the upcoming House of Representatives by-elections scheduled for Falgun 21. This move aims to ensure a secure and peaceful electoral process.

According to Election Commission Secretary and Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai, a high-level Election Security Committee has decided to restrict the operation of all non-essential vehicles—including private cars, diplomatic vehicles, and public transport—during the voting period, except for emergency services such as ambulances, fire engines, corpse transport, blood donation services, security forces, and essential maintenance vehicles. These measures are in line with the Election Security (Management) Directive, 2078.

Additionally, the commission has directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to prohibit the sale and consumption of intoxicants nationwide starting seven days before the election day until the final results are declared. The decision was made to uphold election integrity and curb any potential disruptions.

The District Code of Conduct Monitoring Committees will also oversee the enforcement of prohibitions against illegal activities, with strict action taken against violations under the Election Act, 2073, and the Election Code of Conduct, 2082. The Ministry has been instructed to inform all district administrations accordingly.

Furthermore, the commission plans to review security arrangements, assess risk levels, and provide guidance to ensure a free, fair, and violence-free election environment. All necessary measures will be implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs, with strict adherence to the election silence period from Falgun 18, midnight.

International and domestic flights will operate normally on election day. Passengers travelling to or from airports will be allowed to use private or airline-provided vehicles for their journeys.

In line with the Election Management Directive, 2082, the commission has also ordered the closure of international borders with Nepal for 72 hours prior to the election to prevent any undue influence or disruptions.

Voters are reminded to carry valid identification such as their voter ID card, citizenship certificate, passport, land ownership papers, or driving license when visiting polling stations. The election authorities will establish a vehicle permit issuance unit at the commission’s secretariat to facilitate the issuance of travel passes on election day.

The Election Commission remains committed to conducting a transparent and credible election, ensuring the safety of voters and security personnel alike.