Sudan Gurung Says Police Handcuffed for 36 Years

Home Minister Sudan Gurung signals tougher policing, citing decades of political interference in law enforcement

Roshani Shrestha Pathak
Roshani Shrestha Pathak
Sudan Gurung speaking at a meeting on Nepal security crackdown and police reform
Home Minister Sudan Gurung addresses a meeting on law enforcement reforms

Sudan Gurung security crackdown has intensified as Nepal’s Home Minister claims law enforcement was restrained for decades, signaling a shift toward stricter policing and renewed control over criminal networks.

Since assuming office, Home Minister Sudan Gurung has taken an aggressive stance on internal security, stating that police forces had effectively been “handcuffed” for the past 36 years. In a message shared on social media, he suggested that political influence had long limited the independence of law enforcement agencies, preventing them from acting decisively.

Gurung indicated that his administration is now working to remove those constraints and allow security agencies to operate freely within the law. His remarks reflect a broader effort to restore public confidence in policing by emphasizing accountability, professionalism, and operational autonomy.

The Sudan Gurung security crackdown has gained momentum following the implementation of recommendations from the Gauri Bahadur Karki Commission. Authorities have begun tightening surveillance and enforcement measures targeting individuals involved in organized crime and gang-related activities.

In Kathmandu Valley and other parts of the country, police units have increased monitoring, conducted targeted operations, and stepped up preventive actions.

Officials say the renewed focus is aimed at dismantling criminal networks that have operated with relative impunity in recent years. While the government has not released detailed figures, early indications suggest a rise in enforcement activity, including arrests and intelligence-led interventions.

The move has drawn attention for its timing and intensity, with observers noting that it marks a departure from previous approaches that were often criticized as inconsistent or politically influenced. Gurung’s statements underline his intent to depoliticize the police force and reinforce the rule of law through consistent legal action.

Looking ahead, the success of the Sudan Gurung security crackdown will likely depend on sustained implementation, institutional reforms, and the ability to maintain a balance between strong enforcement and protection of civil liberties.

Roshani Shrestha Pathak

Written by Roshani Shrestha Pathak

Roshani Shrestha Pathak is the English Bureau Chief at Khoj Samachar, overseeing English-language editorial operations and newsroom coordination.