Nepal Imposes Alcohol Ban and Security Measures Ahead of March 5 Election

Nepal's Election Commission has announced a nationwide ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol starting seven days before the March 5 general election, lasting until the results are declared. The Nepal-India border will be sealed 72 hours prior to voting. A silent period begins on March 2, restricting election campaigns. Vehicular movement is limited from midnight March 4 to March 5, except for emergency services with special passes. The Nepal Army is deploying a three-phase security plan for the elections, where 18.9 million voters will elect 275 House of Representatives members.