Bahraich

The India–Nepal border will remain closed from midnight of March 2 to midnight of March 5 in view of the general elections scheduled in Nepal on March 5, officials said on Friday.

Sudhir Sharma, in-charge of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Rupaidiha in Bahraich district, said Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs has issued an official communication dated February 26 regarding the closure.

According to the letter, all border outposts along the entire stretch of Nepal’s Banke district adjoining India will remain closed from 12 am on the intervening night of March 2–3 till 12 am on March 5. The measure is aimed at ensuring that the election process is conducted in a free, fair, fearless and credible manner.

Sharma said import and export of goods through the ICP would remain suspended during this period. However, the movement of essential medicines and other critical commodities will continue.

Commandant Ganga Singh Udawat of the 42nd Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal said instructions have been issued to enforce “restricted movement” at the border from the night of March 2 until polling concludes on March 5, following communication from the Nepal administration.

Udawat added that heightened vigilance is already in place at the border, with people allowed to cross only after thorough checking and verification of identity documents. Citizens of both countries have been advised to avoid crossing the border during the restricted period unless absolutely necessary.

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He also noted that a large number of Nepali voters reside in India for employment and business purposes. Such voters, along with seriously ill patients and essential goods, may be permitted to cross the border under strict supervision of the security forces.