Nepal Police, tasked with upholding the law while ensuring public safety, often requires personnel to prioritize national peace and security over personal life. Among those who have committed their lives to this noble cause is Dan Bahadur Karki, a respected name within the force. Currently serving as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Lumbini Province Police Office, Karki has been recommended for promotion to Additional Inspector General (AIG) as of Baisakh 4. He is set to receive his final promotion within days, marking a significant milestone in his 27-year-long policing career.

Humble Beginnings in Gulmi

Born in Ward No. 7 of Malika Rural Municipality in Gulmi, Karki’s early years were filled with love and warmth. As a child, he actively helped his mother with household chores like washing dishes and sweeping. Academically gifted, he consistently ranked at the top of his class and actively participated in public speaking, quiz contests, football, cultural programs, and other extracurricular activities. His academic performance allowed him to skip directly from grade 3 to 5.

After completing primary school in Khanjad, Gulmi, Karki moved to Lalitpur for further education. He stayed in hostels and pursued his secondary education at private schools before earning a bachelor’s degree from Law Campus and RR Campus.

Inspired by Civil Service

Growing up in a community that valued government service, Karki was drawn to public service from an early age. He often studied at the homes of his seniors, focusing on competitive exam preparation, particularly for civil service roles. Though he initially aimed for a diplomatic career, he ended up joining the police force when an opportunity opened before the foreign service exams. “I actually applied to support a friend,” he shared, “but I passed.”

From a Modest Salary to Top Rank

Karki joined the Nepal Police on Chaitra 18, 2054 B.S. as a Police Inspector, with an initial monthly salary of just NPR 4,000. He was among the first batch of officers recruited through the Public Service Commission examination. His appointment came during a critical period of internal conflict in the country, which he considers a pivotal point in his career.

“I’ve always put the nation first in my work,” he said. “Law enforcement isn’t a solo effort; it needs cooperation between police and citizens.”

A Passion for Music

Though his musical pursuits took a backseat during college, Karki was active in singing and dancing during his childhood. Recently, he has released three to four songs, including one dedicated to the police force titled Phoolko Wasana Sari, which reflects the omnipresence and commitment of police in communities across the nation.

His songs often capture themes of police duty, heroism, societal struggle, beauty, and emotional depth. One of his songs even featured in the film Haribahadurko Jutta.

A Lifelong Commitment to Service

Throughout his career, Karki has served in multiple districts including Kaski, Kapilvastu, Kathmandu, Saptari, and Jhapa. His belief is that the police must work closely with citizens, respecting public sentiments while upholding the law.

With a long-standing dedication to public service and a unique blend of law enforcement and artistic expression, Dan Bahadur Karki continues to serve as a role model within the Nepal Police.