Nepal Police Cautions Public against False Claims over Flood Relief Efforts
KATHMANDU: Nepal Police has warned the public against circulating what it described as “false and baseless” claims on social media alleging that security agencies took relief materials intended for flash flood victims but failed to distribute them.
The warning came after allegations by CPN (UML) Secretary Mahesh Basnet that relief supplies were being stored inside Army and police barracks and offices, with some food items allegedly left to rot. The claims were reported by Nepal-based news portal Ratopati.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Nepal Police said it had taken note of the circulation of what it termed “baseless, fabricated and misleading” information targeting security agencies through social media platforms.
The police urged members of the public to refrain from sharing unverified information, particularly during an emergency when misinformation could create confusion among affected communities and hamper relief operations.
The statement comes as Nepal continues relief and rescue efforts following severe flash floods and other weather-related disasters that have affected several parts of the country. Security personnel have been involved in rescue, evacuation and distribution of essential supplies to people affected by the disasters.
Nepal Police maintained that claims suggesting relief materials were deliberately withheld or left undistributed were misleading. It appealed to the public and social media users to verify information before posting or forwarding allegations concerning relief operations.
The dispute highlights the challenges faced by authorities in managing information during large-scale disasters, when reports and claims can spread rapidly through social media.
The police statement also sought to reassure the public that security agencies remain engaged in supporting disaster response and relief activities.
Authorities have repeatedly urged citizens to rely on official updates and verified sources for information about rescue and relief operations, particularly in areas affected by floods and landslides.
The latest warning underscores the growing concern among Nepalese authorities over misinformation surrounding disaster relief. Police said misleading claims targeting security agencies could undermine public confidence and create unnecessary difficulties for personnel engaged in emergency response.
The allegations and the police response come at a time when coordination among government agencies, security forces and relief organisations remains crucial to assisting communities affected by flash floods and other disasters.
