India on Tuesday released a new advisory for citizens in Nepal after days of violent protests claimed at least 19 lives and forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to step down. The demonstrations, sparked by anger over corruption and a social media ban, plunged the Himalayan nation into turmoil.
The Ministry of External Affairs urged Indians to postpone any plans to visit Nepal until normalcy returns. Those already present have been told to remain inside their homes, stay away from public gatherings, and follow instructions from local officials and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.
Helplines have been made available for citizens seeking assistance:
+977–980 860 2881 (also on WhatsApp)
+977–981 032 6134 (also on WhatsApp)
“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 families of the deceased. We also wish speedy recovery for those who were injured,” the MEA said.
“As a close friend and neighbour, we hope that all concerned will exercise restraint and address any issues through peaceful means and dialogue,” it added, noting that curfews had again been enforced in Kathmandu and other cities.
Prime Minister Oli, 73, tendered his resignation to President Ramchandra Paudel, explaining that he wished to “facilitate the solution to the problem and to help resolve it politically in accordance with the constitution.” The president immediately accepted. Soon after, the army issued a statement on X urging citizens to “exercise restraint.”
Oli had convened a meeting of political parties earlier the same day, calling for calm and claiming violence was “not in the interest of the nation.” He also blamed “infiltration from different selfish centres” for the unrest, while avoiding direct reference to the corruption allegations. Two cabinet ministers had already resigned the previous night on moral grounds.
What unfolded over the past week has been described as Nepal’s most severe crisis in decades. Organisers dubbed the rallies “demonstrations by Gen Z,” which began after a sweeping ban on social media. That ban was rolled back only after deadly clashes erupted, leaving 19 people dead and more than 100 injured.
Witnesses reported tyres set ablaze, stones hurled at police, and homes of politicians torched. Some officials were reportedly airlifted by the military for safety. The international airport in Kathmandu was shut down as fires burned near the runway.
Many of the demonstrators were young Nepalis, who voiced their frustration with corruption and lack of opportunities. “We are still standing here for our future … We want this country corruption-free so that everyone can easily access education, hospitals, medical (facilities) … and for a bright future,” said Robin Sreshtha.
