Home Minister Sudan Gurung has said the government will move to have the Prime Minister confer insignia on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), signaling a possible shift in long-standing administrative practice.
During a visit to the Nepal Police Headquarters in Naxal on Monday, Gurung stated that efforts would be made to ensure the Prime Minister formally presents the insignia to the IGP after appointment. The issue of who should bestow the rank insignia has remained a subject of internal debate within security agencies.
Both the Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force have long maintained that the insignia ceremony should be conducted by either the Prime Minister or the Home Minister, citing its symbolic importance in reinforcing leadership legitimacy. However, in practice, the responsibility has often been carried out by the Home Secretary.
The discussion resurfaced recently following the appointment of IGP Dan Bahadur Karki, but no concrete decision was implemented at the time. Gurung’s latest remarks indicate renewed political attention to the matter, with potential administrative changes under consideration.
Beyond the ceremonial issue, the Home Minister also emphasized strengthening the institutional role of the IGP within the police organization. He noted that reinforcing leadership at the top level is essential for improving operational efficiency and accountability across the force.
Gurung further announced plans to produce Nepal Police uniforms domestically, a move aimed at reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and supporting local industries. He also encouraged police personnel to openly communicate their concerns, assuring that the government is willing to listen and address internal challenges.
The proposed change in the IGP insignia process could reshape traditional protocol while reinforcing the visibility of political leadership in security institutions, with further decisions expected in the coming days.
