The Gen Z Protests and the Challenges Faced by Nepal Police
The protests led by Gen Z in Nepal on September 8 revealed several critical shortcomings in the country’s police crowd control mechanisms, resulting in 19 deaths in a single day. These events were followed by riots on September 9, which further damaged police infrastructure and led to the looting of weapons and the escape of numerous prisoners. In an effort to understand the situation better, Biken K Dawadi from The Post spoke with former Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG) Pushkar Karki.
What Made the September 8 Protest Unique?
Unlike previous protests in Nepal, the one on September 8 was driven by a younger generation that was not organized by political parties. Instead, they were mobilized through social media platforms. This group was united by their shared dissatisfaction with corruption within state institutions, leading them to form a common ground without political affiliations. However, the lack of organization made it difficult for security forces to anticipate the scale of the protest. As a result, the police resorted to disproportionate force, leading to the highest number of protester deaths in a single day in Nepal.
Lapses in Security Forces’ Preparedness
The security forces were not adequately prepared for the scale of the protest. According to Karki, the entire security mechanism, including the District Security Committee (DSC) and the Central Security Committee (CSC), must be held accountable for the planning on that day. The police failed to monitor social media activities leading up to the event, which could have provided crucial insights into the potential size of the protest. Additionally, the command structure during the event was disorganized, leading to a failure in communication with the protesters.
Command Mechanism Failures
The command mechanism displayed during the protests was significantly flawed. Karki pointed out that the police had learned from past incidents like the Tinkune incident in March, yet they still failed to adapt their strategies. The absence of a clear leader among the protesters posed additional challenges, as traditional crowd control methods were not effective. The lack of communication between the police and the protesters exacerbated the situation, leading to a breakdown in operational and tactical command.
Use of Non-Lethal Weapons
Karki emphasized the need for a shift in the use of non-lethal weapons. He suggested moving away from rubber pellets to more effective alternatives such as electric shock devices. However, he noted that the procurement process has been hindered by politicization, with middlemen and politicians delaying necessary purchases. The police headquarters and the home ministry need to address these issues to ensure that the police are equipped with the right tools to handle future situations.
Training and Leadership Issues
The lack of proper training for police personnel was another significant issue. Karki highlighted that budget cuts have reduced the availability of training programs, making it challenging to provide comprehensive instruction. Moreover, the instability in police leadership, with many chiefs serving short terms, has contributed to a lack of continuity in training and management.
Security Situation Ahead of Elections
With the upcoming elections scheduled for March 5, the security environment remains a concern. The damage to police infrastructure and the loss of weapons and prisoners pose significant threats. However, there is a silver lining: local communities have shown support in rebuilding damaged police infrastructure. Karki emphasized the importance of improving police morale through both short-term and long-term measures, including providing new uniforms, compensation packages, and adequate resources.
Improving Police Morale
In the short term, Karki suggested addressing immediate needs such as replacing lost uniforms and compensating for lost property. He also recommended that senior officers conduct briefings and training sessions for junior personnel. In the long run, introducing updated police laws, restructuring the organization, and ensuring proper communication with officers can lead to improved morale. Additionally, updating benefits and remuneration for police personnel will help in retaining skilled individuals.
Conclusion
The events surrounding the Gen Z protests have exposed critical weaknesses in Nepal’s police force. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, involving better preparation, improved training, and enhanced leadership. With the upcoming elections, ensuring a conducive security environment is essential for maintaining public trust and upholding democratic processes.
