Amid the unrest in Nepal following the Gen Z protests, India said it is closely monitoring the situation. It expressed hope that calm would be maintained and that all issues would be resolved peacefully through dialogue. Indian citizens in Nepal have been advised to exercise caution and follow the guidelines issued by Nepali authorities. Protesters have set ablaze the Nepal parliament in a major escalation of the protest and unrest. Visuals from Nepal show huge flames and thick black smoke billowing from the vast complex. It is said that the protestors had set the parliament on fire. At least 19 protesters, were killed and over 200 injured on Monday as the police opened fire on youths demonstrating against the Nepal Government’s recent decision to ban over two dozen social media platforms.
“We are closely monitoring the developments in Nepal since yesterday and are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased. We also wish speedy recovery for those who were injured,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. This is the first statement on the situation from the Indian government.
“As a close friend and neighbour, we hope that all concerned will exercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue,” the MEA said in the wake of the violence and the police action on the protesters.
“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,” it said, in an advisory for Indians living and working in Nepal.
Protests erupted in several cities across Nepal, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bhairahawa, Itahari, and Chitwan. Police opened fire in at least two locations, Kathmandu and Itahari in eastern Nepal. Sixteen protesters were killed in Kathmandu, while three lost their lives in Itahari.
