Hajuriya General

Introduction of Hajuriya General

Hajuriya General was a coveted Administrative Position during the Rana Regime that acted as the Personal Assistant or attendant to the Prime Minister. Generally, the Prime Minister’s eldest son would be granted this position. It was hereditary.

It was done to provide practical insight into the administrative responsibilities that came with the virtue of being the De Facto Prime Minister of the Nation.

Hajuriya General had much power over the Departments of Nepal headed by the Prime Minister. This post was primarily practical and not a Legal post like that of Commander In Chief or Commanding General. Some Important Individuals such as Gehendra Shumsher, Mohan Shumsher, and Bahadur Shumsher worked in this post.

The Responsibilities of this Post were to communicate the orders and decisions of the King to respective Government Officials, maintain the security and safety of the Kathmandu Valley, etc.

Duties of Hajuriya General

Personal Assistant to the Prime Minister

Hajuriya General was the Personal Assistant of the Prime Minister and used to manage the Daily Affairs of their Father, such as scheduling for the Day, corresponding in small matters, and providing support in Administration.

Also, they had to manage the schedules of the Prime Minister and become the Trusted individual of the Prime Minister. Therefore, although as not as powerful as Commander In Chief and Commanding Generals, it had a considerable influence in the then administration of Nepal.

Management of the Department of Foreign Affairs

Hajuriya General’s influence extended beyond the Prime Minister’s office to departments such as the Department of Foreign Affairs, which was under the direct control of the Prime Minister.

In addition to supervising the department’s daily operations, Hajuriya General was also in charge of personnel management, liaison with Mirmunsi, and the department’s daily check for diplomatic letters or envoys.

The Prime Minister and the King heavily relied upon the British Government for the newest technologies, modern clothing and lifestyle trending fashions, and rare jewellery.

To obtain these items, they had to communicate with the British Government. Therefore, the Foreign Affairs Department, also known as Munsi Khana Adda, was integral to the Ranas and so was the British Residence.

Maintenance of Peace and Security

Hajuriya General was in charge of keeping the Kathmandu Valley safe and secure during periods of political unrest. He had to coordinate with Government Offices and Officials and end such revolt immediately in line with the demand of the Prime Minister.

Generally, this role emerged during the End of the Rana Regime when public revolts and an uprising against the Rana Regime were at their peak. Many Politically affiliated individuals had to be arrested and prosecuted.

Therefore, Ranas needed a trusted member to carry out these functions, and hence the role of Hajuriya General emerged so powerfully.

Commanding the Police

Hajuriya General was responsible for commanding the police in the Kathmandu Valley, including the Sadar Jangi Kotwali and Police Goshwara.

As the safety of the Kathmandu Valley was directly linked with the mobilization of Sipahis or the Police Force, it was integral for this individual to be commanding and demanding in nature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hajuriya General was an important post during the Rana Regime in Nepal. He was the personal assistant to the Prime Minister, managing daily affairs and overseeing the Department of Foreign Affairs.

It was also responsible for maintaining peace and security in the Kathmandu Valley and commanding the police force. The Following Individuals became Hajuriya General in Nepal: Gehendra Shumsher, Mohan Shumsher, and Bahadur Shumsher held this post.