Despite a decade of federalism in Nepal, a significant gap persists between constitutional authority and practical power in the security sector. Provincial governments are constitutionally responsible for maintaining peace and security, but Chief District Officers (CDOs)—representatives of the central government—continue to dominate crisis response. This effectively relegates provincial responsibilities to a theoretical level. The existing structure mirrors the old centralized administrative system, hindering the full implementation of federal principles. Experts suggest this imbalance undermines the intended devolution of power and raises concerns about local ownership of security matters. The situation highlights a critical need to redefine roles and responsibilities to ensure provinces can effectively exercise their constitutional rights regarding peace and security. Addressing this gap is vital for strengthening Nepal’s federal system and ensuring effective governance.