KATHMANDU, March 3: Elections are often described as the dance of democracy — a careful choreography of ballot boxes, voters and vote counting. This time, that dance has found even an unexpected rhythm. Election police, entrusted with safeguarding the process, are adding a splash of creativity to the atmosphere.
Amid strict discipline, tight schedules and the weight of responsibility, they have carved out fleeting moments of joy — transforming spare minutes into lively performances. Swaying to popular songs, they have entertained onlookers and softened the otherwise serious mood that typically surrounds elections.
TikTok and Facebook Reels are now awash with videos of election police dancing, acting and sharing lighthearted moments. The crisp uniform, long associated with authority and vigilance, seems to carry a new vibrancy — amplifying the youthful energy of the officers wearing it.
Much like previously viral TikTok trends such as “Sagar” and “Basante ‘Kisne,’” this season’s trending personalities are the election police themselves. Songs like “Namaste Dhogdiya” and “Behula Banaunchhu Bhanthee” echo across training grounds and temporary barracks. Smiling in groups, they dance as curious crowds gather to watch.
“This uniform has brought happiness to my heart,” says election police officer Binita Thing. “We are enjoying ourselves while fully keeping our responsibilities in mind.”
Behind the viral moments, the preparation remains rigorous. Election police undergo intensive training in discipline, crowd control, ballot box security and emergency response. This year, 133,980 personnel have been deployed nationwide. Trainers have also incorporated team-building exercises, group drills and light cultural sessions to keep morale high. The short videos — often recorded after duty hours or during breaks — appear to have sparked renewed interest in elections among young people.
Five ways to boost creativity
Unlike the 2008 Election
Kopila Sapkota, who served as a temporary police officer during the 2008 Constituent Assembly election, recalls a very different atmosphere.
“There wasn’t this much visible fun back then. Not everyone even had a mobile phone,” she says with a smile. “Seeing today’s atmosphere makes me feel like joining again.”
Singing and dancing did happen, she explains, but the audience was limited. “Only friends would see it. Now, the whole world can.”
Her reflection underscores how much times have changed. Election police were once synonymous with stern faces, rigid discipline and high-pressure duty. The responsibility remains just as serious today, but the mode of expression has evolved. Officers now share videos dancing to Nepali folk duets, modern hits and trending tunes — seamlessly blending duty with digital culture.
While some critics question whether such public performances are appropriate, many viewers have responded warmly. Young voters, in particular, see it as refreshing. “Democracy can also be joyful,” wrote Prabhakar Thapa on social media. “Security personnel are youths like us — their energy shines even in uniform.”
Fine line between fun and responsibility
Enjoyment has its place, but so does accountability. The videos have prompted debate: Should security personnel perform publicly on social media?
“We have never placed fun above responsibility,” Binita clarifies. “Our full attention is always on duty. Most videos are made during training sessions or free time.”
The psychological side
Election duty can be demanding — long hours on foot, constant vigilance and the looming possibility of confrontation. In such circumstances, brief moments of collective joy may serve a deeper purpose. Psychologists suggest that group dancing and laughter can reduce stress hormones and boost morale.
The cheerful scenes shared online reflect not just entertainment, but resilience. They portray elections not merely as a procedural exercise, but as a national celebration.
“When the boots of the police find rhythm in democracy’s dance, it becomes not just vigilance but celebration,” wrote Harihar Pudasaini poetically after watching one such video. “The officer standing at the door is not merely a guard, but a silent artist in democracy’s performance.”
Perhaps that is the broader picture. As Apsara Thapa commented online, “We too have danced — we just don’t have the uniform.”
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