KATHMANDU: The Election Commission of Nepal has urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure strict enforcement of election silence and take immediate legal action against any violations during the prohibited period.
Issuing a statement, the Commission requested the Home Ministry to direct all Chief District Officers and security agencies to fully implement the election code of conduct during the silence period, which comes into effect from 12:00 midnight on March 2.
The Commission has asked authorities to mobilize the District Code of Conduct Monitoring Committees and take action against those violating provisions under Section 24 of the Election Offences and Punishment Act, 2017 and Sections 17 and 18 of the Election Code of Conduct, 2026. It has also sought prompt updates on actions taken.
The EC has further urged a ban on the sale, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages from seven days prior to the voting date until the final results are announced.
On voting day, the Commission has directed a halt on the operation of all public and private vehicles from 12:00 midnight on March 4 until the completion of voting on March 5, except for essential service vehicles.
Ambulances, fire engines, hearses, blood transfusion service vehicles, security vehicles, and vehicles used for electricity, drinking water, sewerage and telecommunications maintenance, as well as vehicles belonging to diplomatic missions and those with special passes issued for election purposes, will be allowed to operate.
The Commission clarified that both international and domestic flights will operate as usual on the voting day. Passengers holding valid air tickets will be allowed to travel between the airport and their residence or hotel using private vehicles or vehicles arranged by the respective airlines.
As per the Election Security (Management) Directive, 2026, authorities have been instructed to ensure law and order throughout the election process. The Commission also reminded that voters must carry one of the following documents while going to polling centers: voter ID card, Nepali citizenship certificate, national identity card, passport, land ownership certificate or driving license.
Only voters whose names appear on the voter list and who carry at least one of the specified documents will be allowed to cast their ballots. The EC has asked security personnel, polling staff and concerned stakeholders to disseminate this information effectively.
According to the Vehicle Permit Procedure, 2026, the Commission will set up a vehicle pass distribution unit within its Secretariat premises on the voting day. Two officials from the Election Commission and two officials from the Kathmandu District Administration Office will be deployed at the unit to facilitate the issuance of vehicle passes.
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