New Delhi – In response to the recent jailbreak in Nepal amidst ongoing anti-corruption protests, Indian security agencies have significantly ramped up surveillance along the 1,751-km open border with Nepal, officials confirmed.
The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), tasked with guarding the porous border, has stepped up identity checks at all crossing points to prevent the entry of escapees, many of whom are unlikely to possess valid travel documents.
“All 26 mutual trade routes, 15 traffic routes, six integrated check posts, and 11 border check posts are currently on high alert,” a senior official stated, highlighting increased scrutiny across the region.
In a swift action, five escaped prisoners from Nepal were intercepted by SSB personnel in Uttar Pradesh’s Siddharthnagar district as they attempted to infiltrate into India. Lacking valid identification, they were detained during a routine check at a border outpost and later handed over to local police for further investigation.
“These individuals were identified as part of the group that broke out of Dillibazar jail in Kathmandu,” an official familiar with the development said.
In anticipation of further attempts, the SSB has also deployed women personnel at several checkposts to manage any sudden influx, including families attempting to cross amid unrest.
While officials stress that the situation remains under control, they admit that vigilance has been significantly increased to counter any escalation. Flag marches have been conducted in sensitive districts like Maharajganj, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, and Supaul to assert presence and deter unlawful activity.
The SSB’s Cyber Wing, operational since 2021, is actively monitoring social media platforms for misinformation and fake news that may incite unrest or panic.
Senior officers, including Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs), are frequently visiting sensitive areas to ensure that the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for high-alert situations are strictly followed.
“Security along the border was tightened starting September 6,” an official clarified. “We’ve implemented a ‘check-and-go’ process to screen travelers without sealing the border entirely.”
On the Nepalese side, amid intensifying protests and sporadic curfews, the Armed Police Force of Nepal has also restricted cross-border movement to control the fallout. The situation has been particularly tense after large-scale anti-corruption protests led by youth resulted in violence, jail breaks, and attacks on government infrastructure.
The chaos began after the Nepalese government imposed a social media blackout, alleging misuse of platforms for spreading hate speech, misinformation, and fraud via fake accounts. The move triggered widespread outrage, leading to clashes between protesters and police, and a temporary withdrawal of police from several areas except headquarters.
In response to the instability, Nepal’s Army has been deployed around key installations, including Dillibazar jail, to prevent further violence.
India’s proactive measures are consistent with its border management strategy during crises in Nepal, such as during the 2015 Madhesi protests, which had disrupted trade and people-to-people movement.
The SSB, a Central Armed Police Force with over 90,000 personnel, continues to provide regular intelligence updates to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Officials reiterated that the current measures are preventive and aimed at safeguarding Indian territory from any potential spillover effects of Nepal’s internal unrest.
