Heightened security measures have been implemented along the border between India and Nepal in response to significant civil unrest occurring in Kathmandu.
Indian security forces have increased their alertness along the frontier with Nepal after extensive and violent demonstrations broke out in the neighboring country. These protests are directed at the authorities over claims of graft and the official prohibition of 26 unapproved digital platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Snapchat.
In the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sankalp Sharma confirmed that rigorous surveillance is being maintained.
“We are constantly keeping a close watch on the law-and-order developments in the neighbouring country. We are in constant coordination with the Border Security Force. Joint patrolling is being done. We have deployed adequate vigilance and police force,” he stated.
Likewise, enhanced security protocols have been activated by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at the Panitanki border crossing in Darjeeling, West Bengal. Increased inspections and patrols are being conducted to avoid any potential disturbances as the situation in Nepal grows increasingly tense.
The use of deadly force by law enforcement against demonstrators – particularly students – who were not armed, led to 17 fatalities in Kathmandu. Meanwhile, two deaths were reported in Sunsari district during a comparable gathering.
Monday represents the most lethal day in Nepal’s recent history since the end of the monarchy in 2006, a period which previously saw 18 casualties over several weeks of unrest. In the current protests, authorities employed water cannons, tear gas, and live rounds against the crowds.
Law enforcement personnel discharged their weapons while seeking shelter inside the parliamentary building after demonstrators breached the structure and ignited fires at the entry points.
