Kathmadnu, Feb. 21 -- Prime Minister Sushila Karki expressed concern over security and the maintenance of peace in the run-up to the upcoming elections.

During a visit to Rupandehi in Lumbini Province on Saturday to assess the election environment, the prime minister warned that clashes between political parties on various pretexts could disrupt the security situation and stressed the need for heightened vigilance.

"I have seen problems in various districts," Karki said. "In the Terai, two or three parties are comparatively more active and influential. Attempts to play games over who will win and who will lose could turn into clashes. That is now a matter of concern for us."

Stating that such confrontations could occur between parties ...