India Warns Citizens to Avoid Travel Amid Deadly Nepal Protests
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday issued a strong travel advisory for its nationals as Nepal grapples with its worst political unrest in decades. At least 19 people have been killed and over 100 injured in violent demonstrations sparked by corruption allegations and a controversial social media ban.
The MEA urged Indians to defer travel to Nepal until the situation stabilises. Those already in the Himalayan nation have been advised to stay indoors, avoid public gatherings, and follow guidance from local authorities as well as the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.
For emergency assistance, the Indian Embassy has shared the following helplines:
+977–980 860 2881 (WhatsApp available)
+977–981 032 6134 (WhatsApp available)
“We are closely monitoring the developments in Nepal and are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives,” the MEA said, offering condolences and urging all sides to “exercise restraint and resolve issues through peaceful dialogue.”
PM KP Sharma Oli Steps Down Amid Mounting Pressure
Amid the turmoil, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, 73, resigned on Tuesday, submitting his resignation to President Ramchandra Paudel. His move came after days of violent clashes and growing calls for accountability.
Oli said he was stepping down to “facilitate the solution to the problem and help resolve it politically in accordance with the constitution.” President Paudel accepted the resignation immediately, with discussions now underway to appoint a new leader.
The Nepali Army also appealed to citizens on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), urging them to maintain peace and order.
Oli, who was serving his fourth term since July last year, blamed “infiltration from selfish centres” for the unrest but did not directly address the corruption allegations at the heart of the protests. Two of his cabinet ministers resigned late Monday, citing “moral grounds.”
Also Read: Nepal Parliament Stormed, Set on Fire by Gen Z Protesters as PM Oli Quits | Watch Shocking Visuals
Social Media Ban Sparks Nepal’s Worst Unrest in Decades
The protests, led largely by Gen Z activists, began after the government imposed a sweeping ban on social media platforms, which was lifted only after widespread clashes.
By Monday, 19 people were dead, more than 100 were injured, and authorities had imposed curfews across Kathmandu and other major cities. Demonstrators set tyres ablaze, hurled stones at police, and torched the homes of politicians.
Local media reported that some ministers had to be evacuated by military helicopters, while Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport was temporarily shut down due to fires and escalating violence nearby.
Protesters Demand End to Corruption, Better Opportunities
At the heart of the demonstrations is frustration over corruption, unemployment, and lack of economic opportunities in Nepal.
“We are standing here for our future. We want a corruption-free Nepal where everyone has access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for a brighter tomorrow,” protester Robin Sreshtha told Reuters TV.
With Oli’s resignation, Nepal faces an uncertain political future. The unrest highlights the deep divide between the ruling establishment and a restless, young population demanding change.
