Nepal To Seal Border With India For Three Days Ahead Of March 5 General Elections

Last Updated:February 27, 2026, 15:57 IST

The decision follows a directive issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs on February 26, mandating the closure of all border outposts along the Banke district.

Nepal will temporarily shut its border with India for three days starting midnight on March 2 as part of heightened security arrangements for the country’s general elections scheduled on March 5, officials said on Friday.

The decision follows a directive issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs on February 26, mandating the closure of all border outposts along the Banke district, which shares a frontier with India.

The restrictions will remain in force from 12:00 am on the intervening night of March 2–3 until 12:00 am on March 5 to ensure that polling is conducted in a free, fair and credible manner.

Confirming the development, Sudhir Sharma, in-charge of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Rupaidiha in Bahraich, said cross-border trade activities, including imports and exports through the ICP, will remain suspended during the restricted period.

However, the movement of essential medicines and other critical supplies will continue uninterrupted.

Security along the border has already been tightened. Commandant Ganga Singh Udawat of the 42nd Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal said instructions have been issued to enforce restricted movement from the night of March 2 until the conclusion of polling on March 5, following communication from the Nepal administration.

Udawat said border crossings are being allowed only after strict verification of identity documents, and citizens of both countries have been advised to avoid travel during the restricted window unless absolutely necessary.

He added that Nepali voters residing in India for work or business, along with seriously ill patients and consignments of essential goods, may be permitted to cross under close security supervision.

The heightened security measures come against the backdrop of political unrest in Nepal over the past year, marked by widespread protests driven by youth frustration over corruption and unemployment.

With millions of voters set to elect members to the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of Parliament, authorities are aiming to prevent any disruptions during the polling process.

The next prime minister will be appointed once a majority is secured in the House.

News world Nepal To Seal Border With India For Three Days Ahead Of March 5 General Elections

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