Nepal Army into controversy

There is a section of foreigners sponsored “intellectuals”, who want to demolish the institution of the Nepal Army. They don’t see any role of the NA and they believe the government expenses on the institution as a waste. Immediately after the SPP controversy appeared, some “intellectuals” were found twitting for dissolving the NA, the oldest institution which is essential for safeguarding the nation’s interests, sovereignty and independence. Perhaps, since the political change in 2006, the NA organization might have been derailed, if so, a correction is obvious and the organization has to be strengthened further according to the country’s requirements. The government, instead of using the NA as its organ, should treat this organization as the advisor in areas of foreign policy and defence strategy. In a democracy, different government organs including the Nepal Army, Nepal Police Force, Armed Police Force and the civil service, are counted as strong organs of the government functioning. In foreign countries, they are regarded as autonomous organs and the political leadership never tries to politicize these organs. If we look towards our neighbouring countries, either in Pakistan or in India, the armed forces are the key organization which even dictates the government in security and foreign affairs issues. It is thus said that the real ruler in India and Pakistan is the national army. In Bangladesh, the army is a strong force dominating the elected government. Even all local NGOs are sponsored by the Bangladesh Army, it is said.

In Nepal also, the Army is seen as an only disciplined organization and performed its excellent duty during the crisis period including natural calamity and disaster. Moreover, NA is an internationally reputed organization among the UN Peacekeeping Forces. As the role of NA is vital, all the political parties should develop consensus on empowering NA instead of dragging the institution under controversy and weakening the force. Furthermore, the government should introduce white papers on key issues including foreign policy, security policy, and water resources, among others, through consensus among all the political parties.