India Assists Nepal in Elections; Border Checkposts Closed Amid Security Concerns

Under pressure from the Gen-G movement, Oli resigned as prime minister on 9 September. Within two days, President Paudel Gen-G handed over administrative responsibilities to an interim government in consultation with the agitators. General elections were announced on 5 March. All India-Nepal border checkposts have been closed for 72 hours from Monday midnight in view of the elections in Nepal next Thursday. The move is to ensure security for the elections. Preparations for the elections are in final stages. The administration has beefed up security to ensure peaceful and fear-free elections. The Government of India has provided a total of 610 vehicles to the Government of Nepal to assist in the election work. The assistance was provided through the Consulate General of India in Nepal. Indian Consul General Debi Sahai Meena handed over the vehicles to the District Magistrate of Parsa Bhola Dahal at a ceremony held in Birgunj. The Embassy stated that the Government of India has handed over a total of 610 vehicles in four phases. In the final phase, 30 trucks have been handed over to the Government of Nepal. It is stated that this cooperation will further strengthen the "traditional ties" between India and Nepal.