Kathmandu, Jan. 5 -- For the first time in its history, the National Intelligence Department, the country's sole intelligence agency, on Friday announced vacancies for 232 positions of assistant informers through the Public Service Commission.

Previously, the intelligence department itself would announce vacancies and conduct tests, but as per the new constitution, those who receive salaries and perks from the state should be selected through the Public Service Commission via a competitive examination. This means that the NID will now be an inclusive institution, just like other government entities.

This new provision, however, has drawn mixed reactions from the intelligence community. Though ensuring inclusiveness in the institution is...