Modiji Appeals for Peace as Nepal Faces Political and Social Turmoil

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) late Monday night to discuss the deteriorating situation in Nepal. The CCS, which includes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, reviewed the violent developments in the neighboring country. Upon returning from visits to Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, Modiji took stock of the crisis and publicly expressed anguish at the violence engulfing Nepal.

PM Modi said he has been in touch with the authorities over the Ahmedabad plane crash. (PTI file photo) | Hindustan Times

Modiji’s Heartfelt Appeal

Describing the ongoing unrest as “heart-rending,” the Prime Minister lamented the tragic loss of many young lives in Nepal’s escalating protests. In his message shared on X, Modiji stressed that the stability, peace, and prosperity of Nepal are of “utmost importance” to India. He extended a humble appeal to the “brothers and sisters in Nepal” to stand together in support of peace during these troubling times. His remarks highlighted not only India’s humanitarian concern but also its longstanding cultural and geographical ties with Nepal.

The Crisis in Nepal

The protests, which erupted after the Nepalese government imposed a ban on social media platforms, quickly spiraled into widespread violence. Demonstrators—largely driven by Nepal’s younger generation—stormed and set fire to government buildings, including the Parliament, the Prime Minister’s residence, and the homes of several ministers. The violence left at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured. Faced with mounting pressure, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on September 9, triggering a political vacuum. In response, the Nepal Army took control of security operations, imposing curfews and guarding key government installations to prevent further escalation.

India’s Concerns and Response

India’s leadership has emphasized the need for dialogue and restraint. The External Affairs Ministry is monitoring developments closely and has issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals in Nepal to remain indoors and follow local security instructions. With Nepal sharing an open border with India, the unrest has immediate regional implications. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also appealed to residents in districts adjoining Nepal to remain peaceful and not get involved in the disturbances.

Regional Implications

For India, the crisis in Nepal is not only a matter of humanitarian concern but also one of regional stability. Nepal holds a crucial position in South Asia’s geopolitical landscape, and instability there directly impacts India’s security and economic environment. Analysts note that India is carefully balancing its response, avoiding overt interference while reaffirming its solidarity with Nepalese citizens. At the same time, New Delhi is mindful of China’s growing presence in Nepal, which makes this crisis particularly significant for India’s foreign policy outlook.

The MGMM Outlook

Nepal’s worsening political crisis has once again brought the fragility of its democracy into sharp focus. The violent unrest, triggered by the government’s ban on social media, reflects deep frustrations of the country’s youth, who feel alienated by an unresponsive leadership. The storming of key government buildings and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation have left Nepal in turmoil, forcing the Army to take charge of security. For India, which shares deep cultural, religious, and geographical bonds with Nepal, this turmoil is both heartbreaking and concerning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s urgent appeal for peace underlines India’s role not just as a neighbor, but as a partner that values Nepal’s stability and prosperity.

From India’s perspective, the developments in Nepal have wider implications for regional security and balance. The open border makes the spillover of instability a real risk, particularly in states adjoining Nepal. New Delhi is treading cautiously—calling for dialogue and calm—while being mindful of China’s strategic influence in Nepal. Modiji’s emphasis on peace is therefore not only a humanitarian concern but also a strategic necessity. The crisis is a reminder that without inclusive governance and accountability, Nepal’s democracy will remain vulnerable, and its unrest will inevitably affect India’s security and regional interests.

(Sources: Firstpost, Hindustan Times, LiveMint)