Kerala CM Seeks Centre’s Urgent Help To Evacuate Tourists Stranded In Nepal

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has appealed to the Indian government for urgent assistance in safely evacuating a group of tourists from the state trapped in Nepal amid escalating civil unrest. The plea comes as Nepal grapples with political turmoil following Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli's resignation, triggered by widespread protests over a controversial social media ban. Vijayan's intervention highlights the growing concerns for Indian citizens abroad during international crises, emphasising coordinated diplomatic efforts between state and central authorities.

In a letter to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Vijayan requested immediate action to rescue the tourists stranded in Pokhara, where protests have led to arson and violence. Sharing the development on his 'X' (formerly Twitter) handle, the CM stated, "Wrote to @DrSJaishankar Ji seeking urgent intervention to ensure the safe evacuation of a group of tourists from Kerala stranded in Pokhara, Nepal, amid protests and arson in the area. The Govt of Kerala will extend full cooperation for all necessary coordination." This assurance underscores Kerala's commitment to supporting federal initiatives for citizen safety.

Nepal's instability intensified on Tuesday with Oli's resignation, prompted by a student-led uprising that has rattled the ruling establishment. Demonstrators have torched residences of senior leaders, stormed party offices, vandalised parliament, and expressed massive outrage against the social media restrictions. The ban, intended to curb dissent, instead fuelled public fury, leading to chaotic scenes across the country and disrupting normal life, including tourism.

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Indian officials are expected to coordinate with Nepalese authorities and possibly deploy evacuation measures, such as special flights or ground transport, to bring the tourists home.

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