India has increased security along its border with Nepal as violent protests continue in the Himalayan nation. The demonstrations, led by the youth, erupted after the government banned social media platforms and failed to act against corruption. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned under pressure from the public.
Teams of Indian state police are now working with the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) to prevent unrest from spilling into Indian territory. An official told ANI, “An alert has been issued on the India-Nepal border, considering the unrest in Nepal. Sashastra Seema Bal is keeping a close watch on the development.”
India-Nepal Border Movement Restricted
India and Nepal share a 1,751 km border across Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, and West Bengal. The 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship allows free movement of people and goods. But amid the unrest, the movement has been restricted.
At Uttar Pradesh’s Gauriphanta border in Lakhimpur Kheri, security forces stopped Nepali citizens from entering India. However, Indian citizens stranded in Nepal are being allowed back. Similarly, Nepal has restricted entry for Indians but is allowing its citizens in India to return home.
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In Panitanki, the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, visuals showed trucks stranded as trade between the two countries was partially halted. Local SP Praveen Parkash said, “A police post has been set up here with deployment of force. We are on alert mode and monitoring the situation.”
Alerts have also been issued in other states bordering Nepal, including Bihar and Uttarakhand.
India Issues Advisory for Citizens in Nepal
India’s foreign ministry has urged its nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Nepal. The ministry also expressed condolences for those killed in the protests.
In its statement, the ministry said, “As close friends and neighbours, we hope that all concerned will exercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue. We have also taken note that authorities have imposed curfew in Kathmandu and several other cities of Nepal. Indian nationals in Nepal are advised to exercise caution and adhere to the steps and guidelines issued by the Nepali authorities.”
Air Travel Between India and Nepal Suspended
The unrest has also affected air travel, as most airports in Nepal remain closed, forcing airlines to suspend flights between the two countries.
With violent demonstrations, curfews, and political instability gripping Nepal, both Indian citizens and Nepali citizens are facing heavy restrictions on travel and trade.
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