Amid brewing unrest over border trade restrictions, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with a contingent of Nepalese journalists in New Delhi. The engagement underscores India’s proactive diplomacy as Nepal grapples with public backlash against its new customs enforcement.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s directive mandates duties on items over 100 Nepali rupees bought in India and carried across the border. Intended to tackle smuggling and unregulated commerce, the policy has instead ignited fury, with demonstrations swelling in Nepal. Border dwellers, accustomed to seamless access to Indian goods for rations, apparel, drugs, and more, now face added costs and delays.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X: ‘Nepalese journalists’ group discussed matters with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who outlined robust progress in India-Nepal collaborations and optimistic future trajectories.’
India’s response has been measured. Jaiswal confirmed awareness of the rule’s implementation, emphasizing Nepal’s anti-smuggling intent. A Nepalese senior official’s statement clarified no halts for personal domestic goods, offering some reassurance.
Recent images capture the chaos: crowds at checkpoints enduring scrutiny of their purchases. This isn’t isolated; it’s symptomatic of deeper discontent with Shah’s economic policies, administrative shortcomings, and graft claims, as reported by outlets like The Sunday Guardian.
The journalists’ visit highlights media’s role in bridging perspectives. With centuries-old ties binding the neighbors, from open borders to shared rivers and treaties, both sides are vested in ironing out these kinks. Misri’s insights likely reassured the group of India’s steadfast support for Nepal’s stability and growth, even as grassroots tensions demand swift resolution.
