Nepal's Turmoil Tests India's Neighborhood Diplomacy Amid Rising Tensions

Nepal Turmoil Adds Strain to India's Neighborhood Diplomacy KATHMANDU, NEPAL - In a dramatic turn of events, Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on [date] after more than 20 people died in clashes with police during anti-government demonstrations triggered by a social media ban. The nationwide curfew and army deployment aimed at restoring order have raised concerns about the stability of India's immediate neighborhood. The situation in Kathmandu is reminiscent of the turmoil that gripped Bangladesh last year and Sri Lanka in 2022, both of which are also close neighbors to India. Delhi has been closely watching developments across the border, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly reaching out to Nepal's President Bidya Devi Bhandari. "Nepal's stability is crucial for regional security," said Dr. Sreeram Chaulia, a professor at the University of Ottawa and an expert on South Asian affairs. "India has historically enjoyed strong ties with Nepal, but this crisis highlights the challenges in maintaining peace and stability in the region." The 1,750-kilometer (466-mile) open border between India and Nepal has long been a point of cooperation between the two countries. However, the recent unrest has raised questions about the effectiveness of their bilateral agreements. India's relationship with Nepal is special due to its historical people-to-people ties, economic links, and strategic interests. The two countries have cooperated on several key issues, including trade, security, and infrastructure development. The current crisis in Nepal has sparked concerns among regional experts about the potential for further instability in the region. "This could set a worrying precedent for other countries in South Asia," warned Dr. Chaulia. As the situation continues to unfold, India is likely to play a key role in facilitating a peaceful resolution to the crisis. With its close ties with Nepal and experience in handling similar situations in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, Delhi may be able to provide valuable support to Kathmandu. The international community is closely watching developments in Nepal, with many countries urging restraint and calm. The United Nations has issued a statement calling for an end to violence and the restoration of order. As the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the stability of Nepal's government will have far-reaching implications for regional security and India's neighborhood diplomacy. *Reporting by Bbc.*