Indian tourist stranded in Nepal amid violent protests appeals for help

An Indian tourist, Upasana Gill, has made a desperate appeal for assistance after being stranded in Pokhara, Nepal, due to escalating "Gen Z" protests.

In a video shared on social media, Gill recounted her harrowing experience of narrowly escaping a mob that set her hotel ablaze.

Gill, who had traveled to Nepal to host a volleyball league, described the chaotic scene: "I was in the spa, and people were running behind me with very large sticks, and I barely managed to escape with my life," she said.

The protests, initially sparked by a government ban on social media, have intensified into broader demonstrations against Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's administration, focusing on issues of corruption and government accountability.

The unrest has led to widespread violence, with protesters targeting government buildings and infrastructure.

In her video, Gill appealed to the Indian embassy for assistance, stating, "I am stranded here in Pokhara, Nepal... the entire hotel was set on fire. All my luggage, all my belongings, were in my room." She emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the protests were not sparing tourists and that many others were also stranded.

The Gujarat government has reached out to the Indian government, urging for the safe return of tourists and students from the state who are currently in Nepal.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has expressed concern for the safety of Gujaratis in Nepal and has been in contact with the Ministry of External Affairs to facilitate their safe return.

As the situation in Nepal continues to evolve, the Indian government is closely monitoring the developments and coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens stranded in the country.