The political crisis in Nepal has intensified, leading to widespread protests, arson, and violent clashes across major cities. Amid this unrest, India has issued a strong advisory for its citizens, urging them to avoid traveling to Nepal until the situation stabilizes. The Ministry of External Affairs has also appealed to Indians currently present in Nepal to remain indoors, avoid unnecessary movement, and strictly follow safety instructions issued by both Nepalese authorities and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.

Violence Engulfs Nepal, Tourists Targeted

The ongoing anti-government demonstrations have taken a violent turn, with reports suggesting that even foreign tourists are being targeted. A distressing video message from an Indian woman named Upasana Gill has surfaced, highlighting the dangers faced by visitors.

Upasana revealed that she was in Pokhara for a volleyball league event when protests escalated. She claimed that the hotel where she was staying was set on fire, with her belongings still inside. According to her account, she was at a spa when mobs armed with sticks chased her, and she narrowly escaped with her life.

In her video appeal, she said, “My name is Upasana Gill, and I am sending this video to Prafull Garg. I request the Indian Embassy to help us. Tourists are not being spared. Please help us, we are stuck in Pokhara.”

Her plea adds to fears that several Indian nationals, possibly more than 40 from Kerala alone, could be stranded in Nepal amid the violent protests.

First-Hand Account of Chaos

Upasana’s video testimony paints a grim picture of the chaos in Nepal. She described how protesters were setting fires on streets, burning hotels, and attacking people indiscriminately. According to her, the mobs showed no concern for whether someone was a tourist or a worker; their actions were blind and destructive.

She added that uncertainty looms over how long stranded Indians can continue to stay in temporary shelters, as no one knows when the violence will subside. Her desperate appeal was directed at both Indian authorities and anyone capable of providing assistance.

India’s Official Response

On Tuesday, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued an official advisory following the deepening political turmoil in Nepal. The statement stressed that India is closely monitoring developments in the neighboring country. While expressing hope for a peaceful resolution, India emphasized that its immediate concern is the safety of its citizens.

The advisory stated: “Given the evolving situation in Nepal, Indian citizens are advised to defer travel to Nepal until the situation calms down.” The ministry further advised Indian nationals already in Nepal to exercise extreme caution, remain at their current locations, avoid venturing out on the streets, and carefully follow all directives issued by local authorities and the Indian Embassy.

Curfew Imposed in Nepal

Authorities in Nepal have imposed curfews in several cities, including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Pokhara, in a bid to curb the unrest. However, reports indicate that mobs continue to defy restrictions, attacking public and private property. Protesters have stormed Parliament, government buildings, and residential areas, worsening the crisis.

The imposition of curfew has limited movement and made it difficult for stranded foreigners to find safe shelter. Many Indian nationals are now depending on embassy assistance and emergency contacts to navigate the unfolding crisis.

Growing Concerns for Indians in Nepal

The situation has sparked significant concern among Indian families whose relatives are currently in Nepal. The fear that protesters are indiscriminately targeting foreigners has heightened anxiety. Stranded Indians are appealing for evacuation and relief measures as uncertainty about food, accommodation, and safety grows.

The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has been actively issuing advisories and providing assistance to citizens. Hotline numbers and emergency contact facilities have been activated to coordinate relief and support.

The Larger Political Crisis in Nepal

The unrest in Nepal is rooted in escalating protests against the government, which critics accuse of corruption and mismanagement. The resignation of Prime Minister KP Oli has not quelled the anger, with protesters demanding deeper reforms, a rewritten constitution, and accountability for decades of alleged exploitation by political leaders.

The crisis has left Nepal in turmoil, with Gen Z-led movements demanding systemic change. However, the violent nature of protests has endangered ordinary citizens and foreigners alike, dragging the country into deeper instability.

Travel Advisory Reiterated

India has strongly reiterated its position, urging citizens to stay away from Nepal until further notice. For those already inside the country, the ministry advised remaining indoors, avoiding public gatherings, and staying in touch with the Indian Embassy.

The advisory also reminded citizens to follow security instructions issued by Nepalese authorities. Failure to comply could put lives at risk, as violence and arson continue to spread across multiple regions.

The worsening situation in Nepal has placed Indian nationals in danger, with distressing accounts like that of Upasana Gill highlighting the urgency of the crisis. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has taken proactive steps by issuing a travel advisory, monitoring developments, and assisting those stranded.

As protests spiral into violence, Indian citizens are urged to prioritize safety, avoid unnecessary travel, and comply with all official advisories. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Nepal can restore stability and whether stranded Indians can be safely evacuated.