Policing challenges in the face of political influence

The term ‘police’ itself carries significant weight and pride. Public trust and confidence in law enforcement hinge on their role as the authority responsible for establishing and maintaining peace and order through the implementation of law. The effectiveness of the chain of command within police is crucial in upholding the trust placed in them, ensuring officers remain conscientious and steadfast in their duties. If this chain of command starts to waver, questions will arise regarding the organization’s ability to function effectively and maintain public trust. These concerns have not only arisen from the public but also from the officers, who have held key responsibilities within the police force. Some retired police officers argue that the chain of command, essential for an organization comprising approximately 78,000 troops, is weakening. If the central structure of command, considered the heart of the police organization, deteriorates, the accountability and a people-oriented approach within the police force will be affected.

And if the leadership of a professional and principled police organization, dedicated to the values of truth, service and security as embodied in the slogan “Satya Seva Surakshanam”, succumbs to political pressure, the organization risks weakening. This compromises its legitimacy, inviting continued scrutiny in the future. The police, tasked with conducting in-depth assessments of overall security, formulating integrated security plans and executing them effectively, must maintain autonomy.

Some retired police officers say they have seen dominance of politics within the structure of Nepal Police in recent times, which is a matter of serious concern. Practices influencing transfers, promotions and professional development of police personnel have taken a toll on the organization's integrity. Such activities may prompt complaints from aspiring police officers, even those aspiring to become Inspector General, who feel their safety is compromised. There is a looming question about the potential professional deviations in police personnel and the insecurity they may face upon retirement due to injustices in their career development. 

Reports suggest that financial transactions with the involvement of power centers play a role in the appointment and transfer of police personnel. It is disheartening that the chain of command within the police force is entangled in these matters, posing a threat to the organization's structural integrity. The fear is that ongoing political interference may lead to a deterioration of the police structure.

A police organization operating on an honest and professional chain of command is not a business entity, an industrial venture, or a commercial organization. Yet, internal competition and dynamics have turned certain activities into open secrets. Accepting maneuvers by police personnel for personal gains, influenced by power centers within political parties, raises concerns about encouraging unethical behavior. The unprofessional competition for the position of Inspector General is viewed as potentially weakening the chain of command within the police. Addressing these issues is crucial for preserving professionalism and integrity of the police force and maintaining public trust.

The imperative for development is pressing in a poor country like ours. Achieving the status of a developing nation requires collaboration at every level. To expedite our developmental pursuits, it is crucial to promptly halt the unwarranted interference of political leaders. The foremost priority is to recognize that restoring peace and security is the initial step toward the country's development. The security organization entrusted with safeguarding the nation and its people follows its own operational methods and procedures. It is not an entity directed by political appointees. However, as the influence of politics encroaches upon this organization, led by an individual with years of experience in a disciplined setting, doubts begin to surface regarding the chain of command and the autonomous responsibilities fulfilled by this crucial institution. When those leading the organization, funded by taxpayers, start functioning like the leaders of sister organizations of political parties, skepticism among ordinary citizens about the police organization becomes inevitable.

The pervasive influence of politics on the daily operations of the police has compromised the trust of honest, professional and dedicated officers, who envision a future in the police profession. The impact of political interference is evident in the skewed career advancement, where some officers, owing to political connections, ascend to higher ranks, undermining professional development of their honest counterparts, who refrain from seeking favor from leadership. Looking back at past events, we see a tense competition for leadership roles within the police force. Unfortunately, even those who attain leadership positions appear hesitant to champion the organization's interests independently, succumbing to pressure from groups with divergent agendas. Instead of prioritizing the welfare of the organization and its dutiful employees, leaders seem preoccupied with cultivating alliances with political parties and their leaders.

It is undeniable that an organization catering to the interests of political parties, despite awareness of wrongdoing within its ranks and leadership, and remaining indifferent to its committed employees, is destined to weaken and deviate from its overarching goals. The persisting question remains: When will the interference of political parties in the chain of command of the Nepal Police cease? It is difficult to find an easy answer to this question.