Security system

The Himalayan Times

7 November 2019

Security system

Nepal was and is still fortunate not to have witnessed any unwanted and heinous crimes carried out by any individual and or groups claiming to be separatists and terrorists. It shares approximately 1900-Km open border with its southern neighbour, India. Some of these border areas get closed for certain days during elections. Otherwise, people of these two countries cross these border areas without any hindrances. Both countries have been benefitting from this open boarder.

 

Now, a serious concern has been raised by the US Department of State in its recently published Country Report on Terrorism-2018 “US cautions against IM activities in Nepal” (THT, November 6, Page 1). It has outlined a number of security issues and concerns regarding this open border situation with India and weak security mechanism in Nepal. The report reads that due to the open border with India and insufficient security protocols at the country’s sole international airport in Kathmandu, Nepal has been, and could continue to be, used as a transit or staging point for international terrorists, including the Indian Mujahideen (IM). It also states, among others, that the primary constraint preventing more robust border-control capability is lack of resources. The security services lack personnel, technology, databases, basic equipment to provide effective border control.

It has further stated that airport security controls in Nepal are weak and inadequate. TIA does not pre-screen passengers and landing data are not entered into any database. Physical security checks of passengers are rudimentary. The airport even lacks ultraviolet light to examine documents. Having known from this report about all these drawbacks and flaws in our existing national security system, I am very nervous and have become more concerned about the future of my nation and its people. 

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj