Nepal Closes India Border for Elections

Nepal has announced a temporary closure of its border with India for three days, from midnight on March 2 to midnight on March 5, in preparation for its general elections scheduled for March 5. This decision, issued by Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to ensure a free, fair, and credible election process, especially in the Banke district adjoining India. During this period, cross-border trade, including imports and exports, will be suspended, although the movement of essential medicines and critical commodities will continue. Indian security forces, specifically the India===Sashastra Seema Bal, are enforcing restricted movement and heightened vigilance at the border. Special provisions are being made for Nepali voters residing in India, seriously ill patients, and essential goods to cross under security supervision. The measure comes amidst recent political unrest in Nepal, with authorities seeking to prevent any disruptions during the polling process for the House of Representatives.