Govt advises Indian citizens to defer travel to Nepal until situation stabilises

In view of the escalating situation in Nepal following large-scale protests led by the country’s Gen Z population, India on Tuesday advised its citizens to defer travel to the Himalayan nation until the situation stabilises.

In its latest advisory late this afternoon, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “In view of the developing situation in Nepal, Indian citizens are advised to defer travel there until the situation has stabilised. Indian citizens presently in Nepal are advised to shelter in their current places of residence, avoid going out onto the streets, and exercise all due caution.”

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The MEA further said, “They (Indian citizens) are also advised to follow local safety advisories from Nepal authorities as well as the Embassy of India in Kathmandu. In case any assistance is required, please call the Embassy of India, Kathmandu, on the following helpline numbers: +977 – 980 860 2881 (WhatsApp call also) and +977 – 981 032 6134 (WhatsApp call also).”

Faced with intense pressure from Gen-Z protests, Nepal’s Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigned from his post on Tuesday. Oli submitted his resignation letter to President Ram Chandra Poudel, citing the abnormal situation in the country as protests intensified against his rule throughout the country. Oli was elected Prime Minister on July 14, 2024, as per a consensus reached with Nepali Congress, the largest party in Parliament.

As protests intensified in Nepal on the second day following the killing of 19 protestors on Monday, the ruling coalition appeared to have fractured one after another, with ministers, particularly those belonging to the Nepali Congress, resigning and putting further pressure on the government to quit.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Indian government said it has been closely monitoring the developments in Nepal since yesterday and is deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased. We also wish a speedy recovery for those who were injured. As a close friend and neighbour, we hope that all concerned will exercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue,” read a statement issued by the MEA.

It added: “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.”