PM Balen Shah Skips Local Welcome in Mustang During Private Visit

Prime Minister Balen Shah's private visit to Mustang has drawn attention for his decision to bypass a local welcome in Jomsom. A group of women from the Puthang Women’s Group had gathered outside the Oms Home Jomsom hotel on Saturday with traditional khadas to greet him. However, Shah reportedly entered the hotel through a back door, leaving the women disappointed.

Later that evening, Shah visited the Muktinath temple. He traveled by a different route and reached the temple premises by vehicle, offering prayers at the main shrine. Reports indicate he did not meet with anyone during this visit either. The prime minister spent two nights in Mustang, staying at different accommodations before returning to Kathmandu by air on Monday.

The coordination of Shah's trip has also raised questions. While described as private, the visit was primarily managed by the Nepal Army. District administrations in Kaski, Baglung, Myagdi, and Mustang stated they were not informed or involved in the usual manner. Officials noted that while necessary security arrangements were made, the private nature of the trip meant less emphasis on coordination with local authorities.

Normally, district security committees coordinate security for VIP visits, including private ones. However, this time, police and local administration had a reduced role. The prime minister's security was handled entirely by a specialized Nepal Army team, which typically forms the inner security ring around the prime minister, involving all four security agencies in standard procedures.