BAJURA, JANUARY 25 A large number of voters from the Bhote indigenous community are likely to be unable to cast their ballots in the upcoming House of Representatives election in Bajura, scheduled for March 5, due to seasonal migration. According to Nrip Thapa (Bhote), former chairperson of the Bhote Indigenous Federation, most members of the community migrate to lower regions during winter to escape extreme cold and snowfall, making it difficult for them to return home in time for voting. The federation estimates that more than 500 Bhote families live in Bajura, with over 2,700 registered voters. Of them, more than 700 voters are expected to miss the election as they relocate seasonally. In Bajura, the Bhote community mainly resides in Badimalika Municipality–7 (Dhamkane), Budhinanda Municipality wards 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 and 10, and Himali Rural Municipality wards 2 and 3. Due to heavy snowfall in winter, families typically move to lower areas. According to the federation, many families migrate with their sheep and goats as early as Mangsir, relocating to lower parts of Bajura and neighbouring districts such as Achham, Doti and Bajhang. They usually return to their villages only by the last week of Chaitra. 'The election is on Falgun 21, so we will not be able to vote,' said Jagat Thapa (Bhote), who has migrated to Sanagaun in Doti. 'All our families are here. Everyone who could vote has moved seasonally. It takes more than a week to return to the village just to cast a vote, so we don't go,' he said, adding that many families face the same difficulty. Members of the community say the election timing is impractical for their circumstances. 'For us, voting after Baisakh would have been more practical, but the government has already fixed the election date,' said Padam Gurung, currently staying in Safebagar, Achham. 'Those who stay back in the village can vote, but we cannot return just for the election.' Chief District Officer Dorendra Prasad Niraula acknowledged the issue, stating that efforts are being made to encourage voter participation. The administration has urged all eligible voters, including seasonal migrants, to take part in the election. The District Election Office has established 77 polling stations and 118 polling centers across Bajura. According to the Election Commission's updated voter list, the district has 87,861 total voters, comprising 45,428 men, 42,431 women, and two listed under 'others.'