Urgent Warning: India Cautions Citizens Against Travel to Nepal as Violent Protests Escalate

In a grave development, India has issued a stern travel advisory, urging its citizens to completely avoid all non-essential travel to Nepal, a nation currently grappling with widespread and deadly protests. The advisory, emanating from the Ministry of External Affairs, underscores the escalating violence and profound instability that has swept across the Himalayan nation, posing significant risks to visitors and residents alike.

The epicentre of this unrest lies predominantly in Nepal's southern plains, famously known as the Terai region.

Here, a powerful wave of agitation, spearheaded by various Madhesi political parties, has taken root. Their grievances stem from the newly promulgated Constitution of Nepal, which they contend marginalizes their community and denies them equitable representation and rights. This deep-seated discontent has fueled a volatile protest movement, marked by fierce confrontations and tragic loss of life.

Reports from the ground paint a grim picture: numerous individuals, including both protestors and law enforcement personnel, have succumbed to injuries sustained in the clashes.

Road networks, particularly vital arteries connecting Nepal with India, have been effectively paralysed by blockades. These disruptions have not only hampered the free movement of people but have also triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, strangling the supply lines for essential commodities. Nepal, heavily reliant on its southern neighbour for crucial supplies like fuel, medicines, and food, is now facing critical shortages, exacerbating the suffering of its populace.

The advisory specifically highlights the precarious situation at key border crossings, which serve as lifelines between the two countries.

The critical Raxaul-Birgunj point, along with Sunauli-Bhairahawa, Jogbani-Biratnagar, and Nepalgunj-Rupedia, have all been impacted by the ongoing turmoil. For Indian nationals already residing or working in Nepal, the Ministry of External Affairs has urged utmost caution. They are strongly advised to remain vigilant, strictly avoid areas known for protests and demonstrations, and limit non-essential movement until the situation stabilizes.

The escalating situation has cast a shadow over the traditionally close ties between India and Nepal, bringing into sharp focus the security and humanitarian implications of such widespread civil unrest.

As the protests show no immediate signs of abating, the Indian government’s proactive measure is a clear indicator of the gravity of the situation, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens above all else. Travellers are advised to closely monitor official advisories and defer any plans to visit Nepal until a significant improvement in the security situation is confirmed.