Nepal Elections: Voters Trek Hours to Cast Ballots | BBC News

Nepal’s recent elections have been marked by significant logistical challenges for voters, particularly those in rural areas, as citizens trekked for hours to cast their ballots. Reporting from Nepalganj, Bimala Chaudhari of BBC Nepali documented scenes of determined voters making arduous journeys – some on foot for five hours or more – to reach polling centers. The difficulties highlight a persistent issue in Nepal’s electoral process: the requirement for citizens to vote in their registered constituency, often their place of birth, regardless of current residence. This creates substantial obstacles, especially for those who have migrated for work or other opportunities, and raises questions about equitable access to the democratic process. The election, held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, is a crucial moment for Nepal’s political landscape, following a period of political instability and economic challenges.

The Journey to the Ballot Box

The BBC report details the experiences of several voters in the Nepalganj area, situated on the Terai plains bordering India. Sarita Roka Rapti recounted leaving her home the day before to reach a polling center, leaving her children at home. Debmaya Mahatara described a five-hour walk over difficult terrain, struggling with breathlessness along the way. Sundar Budha, who also walked for five hours, noted that roughly half of his village was unable to vote due to the demanding journey, particularly impacting elderly residents. Ramlal Pariyar called for authorities to establish polling booths in border areas to alleviate the burden on voters. These accounts underscore the physical and logistical barriers faced by many Nepalis exercising their right to vote.

Constituency-Based Voting: A Historical Legacy

Nepal’s current electoral law, mandating voting in the registered constituency, is rooted in the country’s historical and administrative structure. The system, while intended to maintain a connection between representatives and their geographic base, presents significant difficulties in a country with high rates of internal migration. Nepal has experienced substantial demographic shifts in recent decades, driven by economic opportunities and political instability. According to the World Bank, Nepal’s urbanization rate has been steadily increasing, from approximately 17% in 2001 to over 20% in 2021. World Bank Data on Nepal Urbanization This migration pattern exacerbates the challenges of the constituency-based voting system. The lack of provisions for absentee voting or easier access to polling places for those living far from their registered constituencies effectively disenfranchises a segment of the population.

Disenfranchisement and Calls for Reform

The reports from Nepalganj highlight a broader concern about voter disenfranchisement. The elderly and those with limited mobility are particularly vulnerable to being unable to participate in the electoral process due to the physical demands of travel. The situation raises questions about the inclusivity of Nepal’s democracy and the require for electoral reforms. While the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) is responsible for conducting free and fair elections, its ability to address the logistical challenges faced by voters in remote areas is constrained by resource limitations and the existing legal framework. The ECN has implemented some measures to improve accessibility, such as mobile polling stations in certain areas, but these efforts are often insufficient to reach all voters in need. Election Commission of Nepal

The Terai Region and Border Dynamics

The focus on Nepalganj, located in the Terai region, is significant. The Terai plains, bordering India, are a densely populated and ethnically diverse area of Nepal. This region has historically been a focal point for political and social movements, and its proximity to India introduces a unique set of dynamics. The open border between Nepal and India facilitates the movement of people and goods, but also presents challenges related to security and cross-border crime. The calls for establishing polling booths in border areas, as voiced by Ramlal Pariyar, reflect a desire to improve access to voting for residents of these communities. The Terai region also experiences unique socio-economic challenges, including land disputes and marginalization of certain ethnic groups, which can influence political participation.

Nepalis Abroad and the Diaspora Vote

A notable aspect of Nepal’s electoral system is the exclusion of its large diaspora from participating in national elections. Millions of Nepalis work abroad, primarily in countries like India, Malaysia, and the Gulf states, sending remittances that contribute significantly to the country’s economy. These overseas workers have limited or no opportunity to influence the political direction of their home country. The debate over extending voting rights to the diaspora has been ongoing for years, with proponents arguing that it would enhance democratic participation and ensure that the voices of Nepali citizens living abroad are heard. However, logistical and legal hurdles remain, including concerns about voter registration, verification, and the potential for external influence. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has conducted research on the impact of remittances and the diaspora on Nepal’s development, highlighting the importance of engaging with this population. IOM Nepal

What’s Confirmed vs. Unclear

Confirmed: Voters in Nepal, particularly in the Terai region, faced significant challenges reaching polling centers due to the requirement to vote in their registered constituency. Individuals reported walking for hours, and elderly voters were disproportionately affected. The BBC’s Bimala Chaudhari reported directly from Nepalganj, providing firsthand accounts. Nepal’s electoral law currently does not allow for absentee voting or widespread mobile polling stations.

Unclear: The exact number of voters who were unable to cast their ballots due to logistical difficulties is currently unknown. While Sundar Budha estimated that half of his village was disenfranchised, this figure has not been independently verified. The extent to which these challenges will impact the overall election results remains to be seen. The specific details of any potential reforms to the electoral system are still under discussion.

Next Steps: Electoral Review and Potential Reforms

Following the completion of the elections, the Election Commission of Nepal will likely conduct a review of the electoral process, including an assessment of the challenges faced by voters. This review could inform recommendations for reforms to the electoral law, such as the introduction of absentee voting, the expansion of mobile polling stations, or the establishment of polling booths in areas with high concentrations of migrant workers. Any changes to the electoral law would require approval from the Nepali Parliament. Civil society organizations and advocacy groups are expected to continue to push for reforms to ensure greater inclusivity and accessibility in future elections. The debate over extending voting rights to the Nepali diaspora is also likely to intensify, potentially leading to further discussions and proposals for legislative changes.