NEW DELHI: Amid escalating unrest in Nepal, several Indian nationals have returned home via the India-Nepal border at Panitanki in Darjeeling district, West Bengal.
Speaking to reporters, one returnee said he had been working in a plywood factory in Dhulabari, Nepal, but left due to the shutdown of operations.
“We are coming from Dhulabari in Nepal. I used to work in a plywood factory there. The work has stopped, so we have returned to India,” he said.
Nepal is currently witnessing widespread protests led by youth groups, sparked by the government’s ban on major social media platforms on September 8, 2025. Officials cited tax concerns and cybersecurity threats for the ban, but it has triggered violent demonstrations across Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj.
So far, at least 30 people have been killed and over 1,000 injured in clashes with security forces. Curfews have been imposed in several cities, including the capital, Kathmandu, and will remain in effect until Friday morning, according to a statement from the Nepalese Army.
Protesters are demanding an end to institutional corruption and government favoritism. The movement gained further traction after social media posts exposed the extravagant lifestyles of politicians’ children—referred to as the “Nepo Babies”—fueling public outrage over economic disparity.
Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, has voiced support for the appointment of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki to lead an interim government. He urged the youth to remain calm and patient as efforts are made to restore political stability.
The ongoing “Gen Z” movement has already led to the resignation of several ministers, including former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, as Nepal navigates a turbulent period in its democratic journey.