Security forces patrol the India-Nepal border amid violent protests in Nepal after PM KP Sharma Oli resigns. [Photo Source: ANI File Phote]
India has raised security and put its border on high alert after Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli resigned amid violent protests by young citizens. The unrest began over a social media ban and quickly grew into larger demonstrations demanding action on corruption.
Authorities in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and other border states increased patrols and deployed additional forces. Flights between India and Nepal were also cancelled as the situation in Kathmandu worsened.
When the Nepali government banned social media, young people got angry and started protesting. Over two days, the protests grew bigger, with people demanding action against corruption and changes in the political system. The violence that broke out in Kathmandu and other major towns resulted in curfews and several fatalities.
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India tightened its security along the 1,751 km border with Nepal, which spans Uttarakhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Sikkim. Paramilitary forces and police patrolled sensitive areas, including Panitanki in the Darjeeling district.
Area 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.” He added, “There's no information about anyone being stuck.”
The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) also increased vigilance to prevent any spillover of unrest into India. Officials stressed that the alert is “preventive in nature” and that the situation is under control.
The protests disrupted trade at border checkpoints. Trucks were stranded, and movement across the border slowed temporarily. Air India cancelled several flights between Delhi and Kathmandu due to the violence.
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“As a close friend and neighbour, we hope that all concerned will exercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue,” said the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. “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.”
India-Nepal ties allow citizens to move freely across the border, fostering cultural and economic connections. However, political unrest in Nepal has previously prompted border alerts, including during the 2015 Madhesi protests, which affected trade and cross-border movement.
Officials say the current measures are precautionary. Adequate forces are deployed, and stricter checks are in place at several outposts to ensure no unrest spills into Indian territory.
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While KP Sharma Oli’s resignation has eased some immediate pressure, India continues to monitor the situation closely. Security forces remain alert across border regions to prevent any escalation. Citizens are advised to stay informed and avoid unnecessary travel near border areas until the situation stabilises in Nepal.
