New Delhi, September 9 – India on Tuesday issued a travel advisory for its nationals in Nepal, urging them to remain cautious and avoid large gatherings after violent protests erupted over the Nepalese government’s now-reversed decision to ban social media platforms.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it was “closely monitoring the situation” and expressed sorrow over the deaths of young protesters. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of many young lives during the recent unrest. Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” the MEA said.
The advisory comes after at least 19 people were killed and over 300 injured in clashes between protesters and security forces on Monday. Demonstrations, led largely by youth groups and Gen Z activists, began after the Nepalese government blocked 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), citing non-compliance with registration rules.
As protests intensified, demonstrators breached the Parliament complex in Kathmandu and torched political leaders’ residences, prompting police to use tear gas, water cannons and live fire.
In an emergency Cabinet meeting, Nepal’s Information Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung announced the immediate withdrawal of the ban and ordered all platforms reinstated. He appealed to the protestors to return to peace, but the movement has continued to spread.
Authorities have imposed curfews in Kathmandu and other cities to contain further violence.
Indian citizens in Nepal have been asked to follow local guidelines, remain alert, and stay updated through official sources.
