Why is security heightened at the Indo-Nepal border in Bengal?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Security at the Indo-Nepal border has been heightened due to unrest in Nepal.
- Over 100 Indian truck drivers and tourists are stranded.
- A 24-hour control room has been established by the Darjeeling District Police.
- The situation is being closely monitored by both state and central authorities.
- Increased security measures include vehicle checks and deployment of additional troops.
Kolkata, Sep 9 (NationPress) Security measures have been significantly enhanced along the Indo-Nepal border in West Bengal due to the recent Gen Z movement in Nepal, which has tragically resulted in 19 fatalities and numerous injuries. Reports indicate that over 100 Indian truck drivers and tourists are currently stranded at the border.
The Darjeeling District Police has established a 24-hour control room to assist the stranded individuals.
According to Darjeeling Superintendent of Police Praween Prakash, efforts to monitor the situation at the Indo-Nepal Panitanki border have been ongoing since early morning.
He remarked, "We have initiated a door-to-door search at the border. While there have been no reports of disturbances on our side, we remain vigilant. We are in constant contact with the Nepal Police. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) is also on high alert. Should any Indian encounter difficulties in Nepal, they can reach out to the Darjeeling District Police helpline for assistance."
Although not officially declared, traffic across the Panitanki border near Siliguri in northern Bengal has effectively been halted.
To address the unrest in Nepal, both the central and state governments are implementing various measures to enhance surveillance in the border regions and prevent any security breaches.
The situation in Panitanki is tense, with many shops closed. The West Bengal government is also closely monitoring developments.
On Tuesday, protests erupted at the Nepal border crossing, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, as reported by sources.
In response to the unrest, security presence along the Indo-Nepal border has been increased, with additional troops deployed.
The Ministry of Defence has declared a 'high alert', and thorough checks are being conducted on every vehicle at the border, with dog squads assisting in the process.
Authorities are compiling information on drivers and passengers of each vehicle; however, hundreds of trucks remain trapped on both sides of the border due to the suspension of vehicle movement.
In a significant political development, KP Sharma Oli has resigned as the Prime Minister of Nepal and is reportedly seeking refuge outside the country.