Why is security heightened on the Indo-Nepal border?

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Why is security heightened on the Indo-Nepal border?

Synopsis

In the wake of escalating political unrest in Kathmandu, security along the Indo-Nepal border has been intensified. As protests erupt and tensions rise, thousands remain stranded. This article delves into the implications of the unrest, its impact on bilateral relations, and the broader regional stability.

Key Takeaways

  • Security measures heightened at Indo-Nepal border.
  • Protests in Nepal driven by social media ban and corruption.
  • Thousands stranded due to restricted cross-border movement.
  • Nepali Army enforcing curfew to restore order.
  • India remains committed to supporting Nepal through the crisis.

Patna, Sep 10 (NationPress) Security measures have been significantly enhanced along the Indo-Nepal border due to escalating violent protests and political unrest in the capital of the neighboring country, Kathmandu.

A substantial number of SSB personnel have been deployed across the border, conducting joint patrols with local police and security forces at sensitive locations.

Cross-border movement is currently restricted, and numerous check posts have been set ablaze by demonstrators on the Nepalese side.

This situation has left thousands of individuals stranded on both sides of the international border.

Araria SP Anjani Kumar has instructed all police stations and outposts in the border regions to maintain a heightened state of alert, closely monitoring developments across the border and immediately reporting to district headquarters.

Nepal is experiencing widespread unrest fueled by public discontent regarding a ban on social media, along with issues of corruption and nepotism.

The student-led Gen Z protests in Nepal, which initiated in response to a government ban on social media, have expanded into a larger movement.

The situation intensified further following the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, with protesters igniting fires at the Supreme Court, the Parliament, and various government buildings and residences.

The Nepali Army has taken on the responsibility of maintaining law and order, announcing a nationwide curfew on Wednesday, effective until Thursday morning.

Amid the chaos during Wednesday's Gen Z protests, where numerous government buildings and private properties were vandalized and set on fire, the Nepal Army declared on Wednesday night that it would lead the efforts to restore law and order.

In light of the need to maintain public order, security officials indicated that the prohibitory order imposed on Wednesday would remain in effect nationwide until 6 A.M. the following day.

Once regarded as one of South Asia’s politically stable nations, Nepal is now grappling with an unprecedented crisis.

The instability in Kathmandu aligns with a concerning regional trend, as India has already felt the reverberations of uprisings in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in recent years.

Nepal holds a significant position for India—not only as a close cultural and historical ally but also as a vital trading partner.

In FY 2024–25, bilateral trade reached $8.5 billion, with India exporting goods valued at $7.33 billion to Nepal, while Nepal exported approximately $1.2 billion to India, accounting for nearly 16% of its GDP.

India primarily exports petroleum, vehicles, machinery, medicines, food items, and textiles, while Nepal sends agricultural products, handicrafts, leather, and some industrial goods across the border.

Numerous cross-border infrastructure projects are underway, including upgrades to roads, railways, and air links, aimed at enhancing trade and connectivity.

Despite the crisis in Nepal, India is taking steps to ensure stability in their bilateral relationship.

Efforts are being made to reduce trade barriers, enhance investment flows, and maintain intact supply chains.

New Delhi has also amplified its diplomatic outreach, underscoring its commitment to supporting Nepal through this challenging period.

Experts believe that once stability is restored in Nepal, the economic partnership between the two nations will deepen, offering growth prospects and contributing to broader regional stability in South Asia.

Point of View

It is crucial to maintain an unbiased stance while reporting on the ongoing crisis in Nepal. The situation demands careful observation, particularly how it affects the Indo-Nepal relationship, which has historically been significant for both nations.
NationPress
10/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggered the protests in Nepal?
The protests in Nepal were sparked by public outrage over a government ban on social media, along with widespread issues of corruption and nepotism.
What measures have been taken at the Indo-Nepal border?
Security has been significantly tightened, with the deployment of SSB personnel and joint patrols by local police and security forces. Movement across the border has been restricted.
How has the Nepali Army responded to the unrest?
The Nepali Army has taken charge of maintaining law and order, announcing a nationwide curfew and leading efforts to restore stability amid the protests.
What are the implications of the unrest for India?
The unrest poses potential risks to the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between India and Nepal, which are crucial for regional stability.
What economic ties exist between India and Nepal?
India and Nepal share a robust economic relationship, with bilateral trade reaching $8.5 billion in FY 2024-25, making Nepal a significant trading partner for India.