Nepal Unrest: Indian Pilgrims Caught in Violent Protests

On September 9, 2025, a bus carrying Indian pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh was attacked near Kathmandu amidst escalating political unrest in Nepal. The pilgrims were returning from the Pashupatinath Temple when a violent mob targeted their vehicle, smashing windows and looting belongings. Reports indicate that seven to eight passengers sustained injuries during the incident, which occurred as the bus approached the Indian border. The driver, Raj, described the chaos, stating, “They broke all the glass panes with stones and looted our belongings.” Following the attack, Nepalese army personnel intervened, and the Indian government arranged for the evacuation of stranded passengers.

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The unrest in Nepal began on September 8, 2025, following the government's ban on major social media platforms, which many citizens viewed as an infringement on free speech. This sparked widespread protests across major cities, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Birgunj, leading to violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. The protests have resulted in significant casualties, with at least 34 reported dead and over 1,000 injured. The political turmoil has also led to the resignation of key political figures, including former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Indian bus attacked, passengers robbed during Nepal protests

The violence has severely disrupted travel and trade, prompting Indian authorities to heighten security along the India-Nepal border. The Delhi-Kathmandu Maitri Bus Sewa has been suspended, and only verified Nepalese citizens are allowed to cross into India. Reports indicate that many Indian tourists remain stranded in Nepal, facing shortages of food and resources. The Indian government has advised citizens to postpone non-essential travel to Nepal and has urged those currently in the country to remain indoors and avoid public gatherings.

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The Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation has organized special evacuation flights to assist stranded nationals. Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo are operating additional services between Delhi and Kathmandu to facilitate the return of Indian citizens. Local authorities in India, including Chief Ministers from Kerala and West Bengal, have expressed concern for their residents stranded in Nepal and are coordinating efforts for their safe return.

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Critics of the Nepalese government have voiced concerns over the handling of the protests and the subsequent violence. The demonstrations, largely led by a youth group known as “Gen Z,” have highlighted widespread discontent regarding political corruption and elitism. The government's response to the unrest has been criticized for its severity, with calls for greater accountability and transparency in governance.

Indian bus attacked, passengers robbed during Nepal protests

• “They broke all the glass panes with stones and looted our belongings,” — Raj, Bus Driver

Nepal Riots: Indian Pilgrims’ Bus Attacked Near Kathmandu – What We Know

• “The Indian government later arranged for all stranded passengers to be airlifted from Kathmandu to Delhi,” — Shyamu Nishad, Bus Staffer

Nepal Riots: Indian Pilgrims’ Bus Attacked Near Kathmandu – What We Know

• “We urge the Government of India to help us as there are hundreds of us here and the Nepal border is not yet open,” — Sridhar, Stranded Pilgrim

The Hindu

As the situation in Nepal remains volatile, authorities are closely monitoring developments. The Indian government continues to facilitate the evacuation of its citizens and is coordinating with Nepalese officials to ensure the safety of tourists. The ongoing protests and their implications for political stability in Nepal will likely remain a focal point of international attention in the coming days.

The Hindu