Political brass must wake up to TIA security risks
Nepal Police personnel have a very limited role at the Tribhuvan International Airport, though they are one of the most visible teams deployed for the security of the airport. These personnel are primarily stationed at the ‘Departures’ section of the airport, where they have, over the years, apprehended numerous individuals attempting to smuggle prohibited items.
However, police personnel have a minimal role in the ‘Arrivals’ section. Within the bureaucratic structure—consisting of customs and immigration officials—they hold a lower position. Though readily identifiable due to their uniform, Nepal Police personnel have a limited role to play as the immigration and customs departments have primary roles in the arrivals process.
Despite extensive research on airport security, their findings remain unimplemented. Regular training is not enough for airport security teams; they need specialized training on airport safety.
All in all, political leadership can play a decisive role in revamping the airport security system.
The author is former DIG of Nepal Police
Government preps for internet curbs
On Aug 23, the government passed the National Cyber Security Policy 2023 encompassing a provision that was not in the draft policy and had not been deliberated with stakeholders.
Clause 11.25 of the policy provides for the establishment of a National Internet Gateway. In particular, autocratic regimes implement such a measure to exercise comprehensive control over internet activities by channeling all incoming online traffic through government-controlled gateways.
The national gateway means there exists a possibility for the government to clandestinely monitor internet traffic, exercise control over online content and implement measures of surveillance, control and censorship.
Given the escalating regulatory pressure to employ software such as TERAMOCS for accessing citizens’ personal information and data without a legal foundation, the establishment of a national gateway will enhance the government’s capacity to monitor and control digital communications and this will provide a legal basis for a controlled internet environment in Nepal.
The author is Executive Director of Digital Rights Nepal
Let’s unite to combat climate crisis
Environment is a multifaceted topic.
Production—of food, electricity and other stuffs—is an indispensable part of life the world over. Paradoxically, production-oriented activities, so crucial for life, also contribute to environmental degradation. Therefore, striking a balance between production and nature conservation is essential. Taking the world two decades back, climate-wise—by bringing down temperatures—is a step worth considering, as it can make the climate more suitable for sustaining and nurturing life.
Parts of Nepal experienced prolonged drought, followed swiftly by rain-triggered floods and landslides, pointing at erratic weather patterns. This is worrisome.
Despite Nepal’s minimal contribution to global climate change, it has been grappling with consequences observed in more developed nations.
Efforts to secure climate finance for mitigation and adaptation from prosperous nations have achieved limited success despite persistent lobbying on the part of developing/underdeveloped countries.
All nations should unite to combat the climate crisis because individual efforts won’t be enough.
The author is a veteran journalist
Go for gold-standard probe
Data indicate that India’s annual demand for gold stands at 1,400 tons, whereas imports amount to 900 tons. It is necessary to understand that 400-500 tons of gold is being sourced from Nepal.
Although the Department of Revenue Investigation asserted initially that it has the capability to handle an independent probe into the 100-kg gold smuggling case, the government later decided to involve police. This move has raised legitimate concerns.
A high-level committee can bring all suspects under investigation, whereas CIB may not be able to probe top government officials. So, it will be prudent to consider the CPN-UML’s demand for a high-level panel. Such a panel is necessary if we are to stop Nepal from becoming a smugglers’ haven.
Furthermore, the detention of our party leader in the wake of his demand for the resignation of the Home Minister and Finance Minister appears to be a retaliatory move.
The author is a senior Nepali Congress leader
