Nepal Police (Nepal Prahari)

Nepal Police (Nepal Prahari - नेपाल प्रहरी)  is a non-military police service in Nepal. It was formally established in the month of Ashwin after the issuance of the Police Act of 2012.

Nepal Police is the main security body responsible for internal security, law enforcement, and maintaining peace and public order in Nepal. In any democratic country, the role of the police is indispensable to ensure the safety of citizens’ life and property and to uphold the rule of law.

As the backbone of Nepal’s internal security and the primary institution through which citizens most directly feel the state’s presence, Nepal Police is not only a security body; it is also a vital link of trust between citizens and the state. Embracing the core motto “Satya Sewa Surakshanam,” this institution has been fulfilling the weighty responsibilities of maintaining peace and order within the country, preventing and investigating crime, and ensuring strict compliance with the law.

For the sustainable development of any democratic society, the protection of life and property, the safeguarding of individual freedom, and the rule of law are fundamental conditions. To guarantee these conditions, the role of Nepal Police is not only essential, but also a foundational pillar of social justice and good governance.

Historically, Nepal Police has passed through different eras and reached its modern and professional form today. It is now addressing challenges ranging from traditional security threats to complex cyber crimes in the digital age. Under a federal democratic republican system, there is a national need for policing to transform from “repressive” to “service-oriented and accountable to the people.” In a challenging geography across the Himal, hills, and Tarai, bringing all citizens of all 77 districts under the umbrella of security is itself a complex task—one that Nepal Police has continued to carry out with high morale despite limited resources and means.

 Nepal Police: Quick Facts at a Glance

• Official Name: Nepal Police (Nepal Prahari)

• Motto: “Satya Sewa Surakshanam” (Truth, Service, Security)

• Establishment: B.S. 2012 (an organized form was established after the issuance of the Nepal Police Act, 2012). However, the history of policing existed in different forms during the Rana period and even earlier.

• Legal Basis: Constitution of Nepal, Police Act 2012, Police Regulations 2071, and the Muluki Criminal Code 2074.

• Jurisdiction: Nationwide (7 provinces and 77 districts as per the federal structure).

• Headquarters: Naxal, Kathmandu.

• Website: www.nepalpolice.gov.np

Institutional Background

Police Day is observed based on the date on which the Police Act was issued in 2012 BS. This does not mean policing did not exist earlier. Historical records note that Amini Police was first established in 1955 BS to investigate and control crime in the Terai. In the hills, a militia system operated under the then Badahakim. Kotwali Police was first established in 1967 BS in the Kathmandu Valley.

The core responsibility of Nepal Police is to maintain peace and security, control crime, and conduct effective investigations.

After 2017 BS, Nepal Police was administratively structured into 14 zones and 75 districts, with a Superintendent of Police in the 14 zones and a Deputy Superintendent of Police in the 75 districts. After 2019 BS, regional police offices were established across all development regions, with arrangements for a Deputy Inspector General of Police. From 1st Mangsir, 2063 BS, a new structure was introduced to make peace and security in the Kathmandu Valley more systematic and effective. In line with the federal system, Provincial Police Offices were later established in all seven Provinces under the leadership of a Deputy Inspector General of Police, replacing the earlier Regional Police Offices.

Professionalization has been strengthened through training systems. The Sadar Police Training Center was established in 2011 BS to improve uniformity in efficiency, professionalism, and performance. Regional training centers were also established in different parts of the country, and various training opportunities have been provided at home and abroad.

For crime prevention and control, Nepal Police operates from Police Headquarters to local police units and has developed specialized bodies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation, Special Bureau, Drug Control Bureau, Crime Branch, and the Human Trafficking and Cyber Crime Control Bureau. To enhance technology-based policing, facilities such as the Central Police Forensic Science Laboratory, Digital Forensic Lab, Polygraph Section, and the Central Police Dog School have been established.

Nepal Police has also promoted community-focused policing. Community policing was introduced in 2039 BS and took a more organized form in 2051 BS with the establishment of the first Community Police Service Center in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu. Women and Children Service Centers have been established in various police offices, and public awareness programs related to drug addiction, cybercrime, and traffic safety have been conducted through schools and communities.

Nepal Police has also maintained international engagement through participation in United Nations missions and became a member of Interpol in 2024 BS, supporting international cooperation in crime control and related searches.

Mission, Vision, and Service Commitment

Nepal Police has adopted some fundamental principles in its performance:

• Mission: To prevent and investigate crime, maintain peace and order, and serve citizens while protecting human rights.

• Vision: To be established as a professional, modern, and accountable police organization.

Core values:

• Impartiality: To provide services without discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, or political belief.

• Accountability: To be responsible to citizens and the law for every action.

• Integrity: High ethical conduct and zero tolerance for corruption.

Citizen Charter: In every police office, there is a citizen charter stating the services available to service recipients, the time required, and the procedures. This provides assurance of service delivery.

Legal and Policy Framework

It is important for citizens to understand under which laws Nepal Police operates.

1. Nepal Police Act, 2012: The principal act that defines the establishment, work, duties, and powers of the police.

2. Muluki Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, 2074: Laws that define crimes, punishments, and investigation procedures.

3. Police Regulations, 2071: Provisions related to recruitment, career development, conduct, and discipline of police personnel.

4. Local Administration Act, 2028: Provisions related to coordination between the Chief District Officer and the police to maintain peace and security.

Relationship with the judiciary and the government attorney: The ultimate objective of police crime investigation is to bring the accused before the court. In investigation, the police take legal guidance from the government attorney, and collected evidence is presented in court.

Organizational Structure: Federalism and Specialization 

With historic changes in Nepal’s state structure and the implementation of federalism, Nepal Police has also adapted to a new form. Analyzing this structure from the perspective of a researcher and academic, this is not only an administrative division; it is a major leap toward bringing services to citizens’ doorsteps and moving toward specialization.

Below is a detailed and in-depth explanation of Nepal Police’s organizational structure:

Article 268 of the Constitution of Nepal provides that there will be “Nepal Police” at the federal level and “Provincial Police” in each province. In line with this constitutional provision and the spirit of the Police Adjustment Act, the current structure has been developed.

Nepal Police rank order

1. Inspector General of Police (IGP) — प्रहरी महानिरीक्षक

2. Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG) — प्रहरी अतिरिक्त महानिरीक्षक

3. Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) — प्रहरी नायव महानिरीक्षक

4. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) — प्रहरी वरिष्ठ उपरीक्षक

5. Superintendent of Police (SP) — प्रहरी उपरीक्षक

6. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) — प्रहरी नायव उपरीक्षक

7. Police Inspector — प्रहरी निरीक्षक

8. Senior Sub-Inspector of Police (SSI) — प्रहरी वरिष्ठ नायव निरीक्षक

9. Sub-Inspector of Police (SI) — प्रहरी नायव निरीक्षक

10. Assistant Sub-Inspector of Police (ASI) — प्रहरी सहायक निरीक्षक

11. Senior Head Constable (SHC) — प्रहरी वरिष्ठ हवल्दार

12. Head Constable (HC) — प्रहरी हवल्दार

13. Assistant Head Constable (AHC) — प्रहरी सहायक हवल्दार

14. Police Constable (PC) — प्रहरी जवान

a) Federal Level: Policy-Making and Command

The highest body of the police, the Police Headquarters (PHQ), is located in Naxal, Kathmandu. It is led by the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

• Secretariat of the Inspector General of Police: Coordinates overall operation, communication, and policy decisions of the organization.

Major departments:

• Administration Department: Manages recruitment, transfer, promotion, and welfare activities of police personnel.

• Operations Department: Analyzes the peace and security situation nationwide, mobilizes manpower, and coordinates VIP security.

• Crime Investigation Department: Controls the quality of investigation of criminal offences across the country. Under it, various specialized bureaus operate.

• Human Resource Development Department: Plans training, curriculum development, and career development of police personnel.

b) Provincial Level: Coordination and Supervision

There are provincial police offices in all seven provinces. They are led by Deputy Inspector General (DIG). In line with the spirit of federalism, the provincial police take responsibility for peace and security within their province. This structure reduces the burden at the center and supports resolving local problems at the provincial level.

c) District and Local Level: The Main Point of Service Delivery

This is the main level where citizens directly interact with the police and receive services:

• District Police Office: Present in all 77 districts, these offices command district-wide security. Depending on district classification, leadership is by a Superintendent of Police (SP) or Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

• Area Police Office: Established to cover designated areas (units) within a district.

• Police Post and Temporary Police Post: The lowest unit and the closest to citizens. These units operate to maintain peace and security in villages.

d) Specialized Units: Application of Expertise

As crime becomes increasingly complex, Nepal Police has established separate bureaus and units for specific functions. As a PhD researcher, I consider these units the police’s “technical strength”:

• Central Investigation Bureau (CIB): Investigates complex, cross-border, and heinous crimes that general police units cannot solve. CIB expertise is used in major banking offences, organized crime, and serious murder cases.

• Cyber Bureau: Established to control crimes such as online fraud, character assassination on social media, and hacking due to growing use of technology. It is currently located in Bhotahiti, Kathmandu, and conducts scientific analysis of digital evidence.

• Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB): Dedicated to controlling illegal trafficking and use of narcotics. It maintains special surveillance at border points and airports and also runs nationwide awareness campaigns against narcotics.

• Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau (HTIB): Active in preventing human trafficking and transportation that occurs under the pretext of foreign employment or other temptations, and in rescuing victims. It coordinates with international networks to track offenders.

• Traffic Police: Responsible for road safety, traffic management, and enforcement of traffic rules. In the valley, the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office commands this function, and outside there are provincial and district traffic offices.

• Women, Children, and Senior Citizens Service Center: A highly sensitive unit. It handles complaints of domestic violence, rape, crimes against children, and abuse against senior citizens. There are arrangements for victim-friendly statements and counseling by female police officers.

e) Internal Accountability and Control System

To prevent possible abuse of power within the police, there are separate units to coordinate with the Police Inspection Directorate and the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority. If any police personnel engages in illegal acts, these bodies have the authority to take departmental action.

This organizational structure of Nepal Police clarifies that the institution no longer operates solely on traditional sticks and guns. It is moving forward toward scientific investigation, technical skills, and federal autonomy. When citizens understand these structures, they can be clear about which body to approach for which problem.

Explanation of Core Responsibilities

The main functions of Nepal Police can be understood as follows:

• Crime prevention: Creating an environment where crimes do not occur through patrolling, monitoring, and public awareness.

• Crime investigation: Identifying offenders by collecting scientific and legal evidence of incidents.

• Peace and public order: Maintaining public peace during rallies, fairs, festivals, or demonstrations.

• Disaster management: Serving on the front line in rescue and relief operations during natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides.

• Road safety: Enforcing traffic rules and reducing accidents.

• Community policing: Working neighborhood-by-neighborhood to reduce distance between citizens and the police.

• Services available for citizens (Service Catalog)

Services Available for Citizens

The police provide various services for citizens:

• Complaints and reporting: Reporting crimes, lost property, theft, domestic violence, or social offences.

• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): Providing a Police Clearance Certificate for citizens who want to go abroad for employment or study. This is currently available through an online system.

• Women, children, and senior citizens' service: Separate and sensitive service desks for victims of violence.

• Cyber assistance: Complaints related to hacking, character assassination, or online fraud on social media.

• Disaster assistance: Rescue support and ambulance coordination in emergencies.

• Tourist police: Security and information services for foreign tourists.

How to Receive Services: Step-by-Step Guide

Many citizens fear going to a police office or get confused because they do not know the procedure. Some key service processes are provided below:

a) How to Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

• Online application: Go to opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np and fill out the form.

• Required documents: Scanned copy of citizenship certificate, copy of passport, and a recently taken photo.

• Fee: This service is free (however, the fee required at the Consular Department for authentication may be separate).

• Time: Generally, it can be downloaded online within 3 to 5 working days.

b) Recommendation for Lost Documents or Property

• Application: Submit an application at the nearest police office or through the online portal.

• Details: Clearly provide the citizenship number, mobile IMEI number, or driving license number.

• Outcome: The police register the details and make an online “entry,” which makes it easier to obtain new documents.

Practical Guide to Reporting a Crime

If you witness a crime or are a victim, take the following steps:

• Immediate information (Emergency): Call 100. This is free.

• Registering a complaint (FIR): Submit a written application stating the incident details, date, time, place, and suspected person (if any).

• Preserving evidence: Try to keep the crime scene as it is. Do not delete mobile messages, call records, or videos.

• Obtain a receipt: After filing a complaint, request the registration number and receipt.

What is an FIR (complaint application)? It is the first legal basis to start an investigation. If the police refuse to register a complaint, the process can also be pursued through the District Government Attorney's Office or the court.

Common Public Problems and Solutions

Some real problems and their solutions are provided below:

Online fraud via mobile or social media

Problem: Asking for OTP saying money has arrived in eSewa/IME Pay, or asking to deposit money saying you have won a prize.

Solution: Never provide OTP. If fraud occurs, immediately ask the concerned wallet company to block the account and file a complaint at the nearest district police or the Cyber Bureau (Bhotahiti, Kathmandu). Keep screenshots and bank statements as evidence.

Domestic violence or harassment

Problem: Physical assault or mental torture within the home.

Solution: Call 100 or the Women Commission’s number 1145. You can file a confidential complaint at the Women, Children, and Senior Citizens Service Center at the police office.

Process for finding a lost mobile

Problem: Mobile theft or loss.

Solution: Take the 15-digit IMEI number from the mobile box and submit an online complaint at lostphone.nepalpolice.gov.np. This helps track the mobile.

In case of a road accident

Problem: If a vehicle collision occurs or injuries happen.

Solution: Rescuing the injured is the first priority. Call 103 (traffic police). Note down the vehicle number. Go through the legal process instead of arguing.

Citizen Rights, Duties, and Safety Awareness

Citizen rights:

• The right to be treated respectfully.

• The right to know the reason for arrest and to consult a legal professional (lawyer).

• The right to be presented to the court within 24 hours (excluding travel time) if kept in custody.

Citizen duties:

• Provide truthful and factual information about crimes.

• Assist the police in investigation and maintaining peace and security.

• Do not attempt to frame someone by filing a false complaint (this can lead to punishment).

• Do not misuse the emergency number (100).

Transparency and Accountability

Nepal Police has developed various mechanisms to improve staff conduct and prevent corruption:

• Complaint box: Kept in every office.

• Inspection Directorate: The body that investigates and takes action if police personnel do wrong.

• Complaint hearing officer: If a police officer delays service or behaves rudely, you can complain to the head of a higher office or call 1234 (police complaint management).

• Right to information: Citizens can request information from the police on matters of public interest.

Community Programs and Public Participation

Through programs such as “Police is My Friend” and “Community–Police Partnership,” Nepal Police has been strengthening its relationship with citizens.

• School outreach program: Awareness for students on narcotics, cybercrime, and traffic rules.

• Cooperation with neighborhood improvement committees: Working with local citizens to resolve small disputes and security challenges in neighborhoods.

• Awareness rallies and gatherings: Campaigns against domestic violence, human trafficking, and social malpractices.

Digital Services and Online Systems

The use of technology has made police services easier:

1. Nepal Police Mobile App: Through this app, you can send emergency messages, file complaints, and receive traffic jam updates.

2. Online police clearance certificate: You can obtain the certificate without going to the office.

3. Traffic fine payment: Fines for traffic rule violations can now be paid online (ConnectIPS, eSewa, etc.).

Facilities and Detention Information

• Police offices: Offices exist at various levels from district to posts.

• Custody: A place where arrested persons are kept for investigation. There is a legal provision that minimum humane facilities (food, health, toilet) must be available.

• Visitation: Family and lawyers can meet a detained person at designated times in the presence of the police.

• Forensic lab: Modern laboratories that test DNA, fingerprints, and digital evidence for crime investigation.

Working with Nepal Police

How do institutions, media, and foreign guests coordinate with the police?

• Media: There is a spokesperson arrangement at Police Headquarters and provincial offices. For official information, you should contact them.

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): Especially for protection and rescue of women and children, the police work with various organizations.

• Foreign tourists: If problems arise, you can contact the Tourist Police hotline 1144.

Careers and Recruitment Process

Entering Nepal Police is not only about having a job; it is also a dignified opportunity to dedicate oneself to national service and citizen security. As an expert academic, I want to clarify that the recruitment process of Nepal Police is now highly transparent, competitive, and merit-based.

a) Main entry-level posts and academic qualifications

In Nepal Police, new recruitment is mainly conducted through open competition at three levels:

• Police Inspector (Inspector): A gazetted third-class post. Requires at least a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. This is a leadership level.

• Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI): A non-gazetted first-class post. Requires at least a Proficiency Certificate Level or 10+2 (Intermediate/+2).

• Police Constable (Constable - Prahari Jawan): The basic level, requiring at least completion of Grade 8 (as per current standards, there may be some revisions).

• Technical service: In addition, separate technical recruitment is opened for those with specialized qualifications in relevant subjects such as doctors, engineers, information technology (IT) experts, and forensics.

b) Impartial selection system and the role of the Public Service Commission

In past years, to reduce potential irregularities in the recruitment process to zero, the Public Service Commission itself now conducts and supervises the written examination. This ensures that only capable and qualified candidates are selected without political or external influence.

c) Selection stages

To be recruited into the police, it is mandatory to be physically fit and mentally strong. The following stages must be completed:

• Initial medical: Checks height, weight, chest, vision (color blindness), and general physical build.

• Physical fitness: Includes running (short and long distance), chin-ups, sit-ups, and push-ups. Candidates who fail are eliminated at this stage.

• Detailed medical inspection: Deep examination of heart, lungs, blood pressure, and other serious diseases by skilled doctors.

• Written examination: Conducted by the Public Service Commission, covering general knowledge, IQ test, language (Nepali and English), and legal and contemporary topics. This is the most challenging and decisive stage.

• Interview and personality test: A committee of experts conducts interviews to assess confidence, decision-making ability, and commitment to police service.

d) Physical standards

• For men: Minimum height 5 feet 2 inches, chest 31–33 inches, and minimum weight 50 kg.

• For women: Minimum height 5 feet, and minimum weight 42 kg.

• (Note: There may be some flexibility in standards for remote areas or certain special communities.)

e) Training and career growth

Selected candidates are not deployed directly to the field. They receive rigorous basic training at the National Police Academy (NPA), Maharajgunj, or various provincial police training centers. Training includes military skills, weapon handling, crime investigation techniques, protection of human rights, and legal procedures.

There is a clear system of promotion in Nepal Police based on performance and seniority. Even someone who starts service as a constable can have the opportunity to reach higher positions through ability and hard work.

f) Where to get official information

Do not rely on anyone’s assurances for recruitment advertisements or information. For official information:

• Nepal Police official website: www.nepalpolice.gov.np

• National daily newspapers (especially Gorkhapatra).

• Official social media pages of Nepal Police.

Youth who want to build a career in the Nepal Police need to focus equally on general knowledge (GK) and writing skills, along with physical fitness. Entering this service means becoming a guardian of the nation’s law and order, for which high moral character is an essential condition.

Records, Publications, and Research

From the perspective of a researcher and academic, an institution’s maturity is reflected in the records it keeps and the research it conducts.

Nepal Police does not only provide peace and security; it also systematically maintains important data and records that reflect society’s criminological picture.

a) Crime statistics

The Crime Investigation Department of Nepal Police publishes detailed annual statistics reflecting crime conditions nationwide.

This includes close analysis of what types of crimes have increased, which age groups are involved, and how crime rates vary geographically. This data is a primary source for students conducting sociological research and for policymakers.

b) Annual report and “Nepal Police Darpan”

The police publicly release annual reports that include performance, challenges, and achievements. In addition, regular publications such as “Nepal Police Darpan” (Nepal Police Mirror) document the history of the police, details of police personnel who attained martyrdom, and recent reforms within the security agencies.

c) Police library and resource center

There are specialized libraries at the National Police Academy (NPA) in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, and at Police Headquarters. These include historical and contemporary books related to police administration, criminal law, human rights, and policing systems of different countries. This library is a repository of knowledge for academic researchers.

d) Research permission and right to information

If university students or independent researchers want to conduct a thesis/research on police-related topics, Nepal Police provides permission after completing a certain process.

Under the Right to Information Act, 2064, official information can be obtained from the police on matters of public interest. For this, coordination is required with the Information Section of Police Headquarters or the spokesperson’s office.

Geography and Reach

Nepal’s geographic complexity—Himal, hills, and Tarai—is both a major challenge and an opportunity for police service delivery. The presence of the Nepal Police is the first and most effective mechanism that reflects the presence of the state.

a) Network from the Himal to the Tarai

Nepal Police’s structure is spread across 7 provinces and all 77 districts under the federal framework. There is a police presence from Simikot in remote Humla to Kachankawal in Jhapa. In remote hilly areas where road networks have not reached, the police post itself is the “guardian of the state” for citizens. In many places, the police provide not only legal security but also social mediation and emergency rescue.

b) Border security and coordination

Although the main responsibility for border security lies with the Armed Police Force, Nepal, Nepal Police plays an active role in controlling civil crimes, smuggling, and human trafficking in border areas. Police offices in border regions coordinate with security agencies of neighboring countries for crime control (cross-border coordination).

c) Police presence in remote areas

There are many places where reaching requires weeks of walking. Even in such remote locations, temporary police posts or posts have been established. This has played an important role in maintaining peace in society and preventing small local disputes from escalating.

d) Special security plans (festivals and fairs)

During major festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, and Lhosar, Nepal Police implements an “integrated security plan.” Considering the possibility of increased movement and crime during such times:

• Passenger help desk: Help desks are operated at bus parks and major checkpoints to prevent passengers from being cheated and to facilitate travel.

• Additional patrolling: 24-hour patrol arrangements are made in markets, financial areas, and quiet residential areas.

• Fair and festival management: For religious and cultural fairs, the police work with local communities to control crowds and provide security.

e) Geographic reach in disaster management

Due to Nepal’s geological formation, the risk of floods, landslides, and earthquakes always exists. Geographically nearby police offices work as “first responders” during disasters. The Disaster Management Division of Nepal Police provides specialized rescue services while overcoming geographic challenges.

Conclusion

Nepal Police is a servant of citizens and a protector of society. As aware citizens, it is our responsibility to support the police and to exercise the legal rights available through the police. The processes and information presented in this article will help you avoid legal complexities and stay safe. Always remember—compliance with the law and cooperation with the police make the construction of a safe society possible.

Contact Details

Nepal Police (Nepal Prahari), Headquarters, Naxal, Kathmandu, Bagmati Pradesh, Nepal

Phone: +977-1-5719900

Website: www.nepalpolice.gov.np

Nepal Police Offices	Contact No.
Police Training Center, Province No.1, Biratnagar, Morang.	9852090180
Police Training Center, Province No. 2, Janakpur, contact Office: Rajbiraj, Saptari	9854090600
Bagmati Pradesh Police Training Center, Dudhauli, Sindhuli.	9854041789
Gandaki Pradesh Police Training Center, Pokhara, Kaski	9856068121
Lumbini Pradesh Police Training Center, Butwal, Rupandehi	9857090444
Karnali Pradesh Police Training Center, Surkhet (Now in Nepalganj)	9858090115
Sudurpaschim Pradesh Police Training Center, Dipaya,l Doti	9858490084
Metropolitan Police Sector, Kathmandu.	9851283012
Metropolitan Police Sector, Bhaktapur.	9851283020
Metropolitan Police Sector, Lalitpur.	9851253017

Emergency Information Box

Keep this safe or remember it:

• Police Control Room (Emergency): 100

• Traffic Police Hotline: 103

• Complaints related to violence against women: 1145

• Tourist Police: 1144

• CIAA (against corruption): 107

What to say when calling:

1. Your name and phone number.

2. The exact location of the incident.

3. The nature of the incident (theft, fight, accident, etc.).

4. Whether anyone is injured.

5. The suspect’s description or the vehicle number (if known).

Disclaimer:

This profile details have been prepared for educational and informational purposes based on the study of Nepal Police’s official website, the Constitution of Nepal, and prevailing laws and regulations. For any legal action or process, it would be appropriate to consult the concerned office or a legal expert.