About
Dil Bahadur Lama, widely known as DB Lama, was a senior Nepali political figure and a former Inspector General of Nepal Police (IGP). He was also a leader of the Nepali Congress and a former Member of the Pratinidhi Sabha (House of Representatives). DB Lama is remembered for his significant contributions to Nepal’s law enforcement system and his later involvement in democratic governance.
He was closely associated with Nuwakot District, Bagmati Province, Nepal, where he spent his later years and where he passed away in 2014.
Background and Public Service Career
Dil Bahadur Lama began his career in public service through law enforcement before entering national politics. His professional life reflects Nepal’s complex political and institutional transitions during the Panchayat era and the post-democracy period.
Career in Law Enforcement
Dil Bahadur Lama joined the Nepal Police on Falgun 28, 2007 BS as a Warrant Officer First Class at the then Sadar Nepal Armed Constabulary. Through decades of service, he rose through the ranks and was promoted to the position of Inspector General of Police (IGP) on Asar 1, 2039 BS.
During his tenure as IGP, he is credited with several institutional reforms and initiatives that shaped modern policing in Nepal, including:
- Establishment of Nepal Police Hospital
- Establishment of Nepal Police School
- Introduction of Community Police Service
- Promotion of female recruitment in Nepal Police
- Introduction of separate uniforms for traffic police
- Publication of official police bulletins
Many former colleagues regard DB Lama as one of the most influential Chiefs of Nepal Police, particularly for strengthening welfare, professionalism, and public engagement within the force.
Political Career and National Role
After transitioning from law enforcement to politics, Dil Bahadur Lama became an active leader within the Nepali Congress.
- 1999: Elected as a Member of the Pratinidhi Sabha representing the Nepali Congress
- 2001: Appointed Assistant Minister of General Administration in the expanded cabinet of Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, serving under Minister Khemraj Bhatta Mayalu
Following the 2006 People’s Movement (Jana Andolan II) and the end of monarchy, DB Lama was appointed to a Parliamentary Sub-Committee tasked with investigating the assets of the King, reflecting his continued involvement in accountability and governance during a critical period in Nepal’s political history.
Arrest and Imprisonment
In 1987, former IGP Dil Bahadur Lama was arrested along with Colonel Bharat Gurung by His Majesty’s Government. He was charged with involvement in smuggling and corruption, including allegations related to narcotics and gold smuggling networks. He was arrested in July 1987 and subsequently imprisoned for five years.
This period remains one of the most controversial chapters of his life and is often discussed in the broader context of Nepal’s political environment at the time.
Death and National Tribute
Dil Bahadur Lama passed away on 25 March 2014 at the age of 84 in Nuwakot District, Bagmati Province, Nepal. He was rushed to Trishuli Hospital after collapsing at around 10:00 PM, where he was pronounced dead.
At the time of his death, he was serving as the Chairman of the Ex-Nepalese Policemen’s Organization.
The Nepal Police Headquarters in Naxal, Kathmandu organized a formal condolence program on March 28, 2014, marking the first time such a ceremony was held at police headquarters for a former chief. He was honored with a funeral guard of honour, and senior officials—including the Home Secretary, incumbent IGP, former IGPs, DIGs, and senior officers—paid tribute.
He is survived by two wives, three sons, and two daughters.
Awards and Decorations
Dil Bahadur Lama received several prestigious national honors, including:
- Tri Shakti Patta
- Gorkha Dakshin Bahu
- Special Service Medal (Bishesh Sewa Padak)
- Prahari Ratna
These awards reflect his long-standing service to Nepal in both security and public administration.
Relevance to the Community
DB Lama’s legacy lies in his dual role as a law enforcement reformer and a democratic political figure. His contributions to police welfare institutions, community policing, and post-2006 accountability processes continue to be referenced in discussions on Nepal’s governance and security sector reforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Dil Bahadur Lama (DB Lama)?
Dil Bahadur Lama was a former Inspector General of Nepal Police and a Nepali Congress leader.
What positions did DB Lama hold?
He served as IGP of Nepal Police, Member of the Pratinidhi Sabha, and Assistant Minister of General Administration.
Where was Dil Bahadur Lama associated with?
He was closely associated with Nuwakot District, Bagmati Province, Nepal.
When did Dil Bahadur Lama pass away?
He died on 25 March 2014 at the age of 84.
What are DB Lama’s major contributions to Nepal Police?
He helped establish the Nepal Police Hospital and School, promoted female recruitment, and strengthened community policing.