An Indian woman stranded in Pokhara, Nepal, during the ongoing Gen Z protests has urgently appealed to the Indian government for help, claiming protesters set fire to the hotel where she was staying. The woman, Upasana Gill, who had traveled to Nepal to host a volleyball league, described a terrifying ordeal where she narrowly escaped with her life as an angry mob chased her with sticks.
Protesters Target Tourist Facilities Amid Rising Unrest
The violent protests in Nepal have spiraled out of control in recent days, with demonstrators clashing with authorities and setting fires in public areas. The situation has become so dangerous that not only government buildings but private properties, including hotels, are being targeted. In a distressing video that recently surfaced, Upasana Gill is seen pleading for immediate assistance, explaining how protesters did not even spare tourists during the unrest.
She said in the video, “My name is Upasana Gill, and I am sending this video to Prafull Garg. I earnestly request the Indian Embassy to please help us. I am stuck here in Pokhara, Nepal. I came here to host a volleyball league, and the hotel where I was staying was set ablaze. All my belongings, everything I owned, were in that hotel. I was in the spa when people carrying large sticks began chasing me, and I barely managed to escape with my life.”
A Desperate Plea for Rescue
Upasana described the worsening situation on the streets of Pokhara, saying, “Everywhere is burning. Roads are blocked with fire. Protesters are attacking not only locals but also tourists. They do not care if you are here for work or vacation. The situation is extremely dangerous, and I do not know how long we can remain safe in another hotel.”
Her heartfelt message ended with a desperate request: “I request everyone, and especially the Indian government, to help us. Please let this video reach the right people. Many of us are trapped here without any support.”
Indian Embassy Issues Advisory
Responding to the escalating crisis, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has issued a safety advisory urging all Indian citizens to avoid traveling to Nepal until the situation stabilizes. The embassy also provided emergency helpline numbers for Indians in distress:
- +977 - 980 860 2881
- +977 - 981 032 6134
The Ministry of External Affairs has advised Indian nationals currently in Nepal to remain indoors, avoid venturing out, and exercise extreme caution.
What Authorities Are Saying
The Nepalese Army has called for restraint, asking protesters to avoid targeting innocent civilians and properties. Despite this, the protests have continued to intensify, with demonstrators showing little regard for public safety.
Meanwhile, the Indian government is actively monitoring the situation and working closely with local authorities in Nepal to ensure the safety of stranded Indian nationals.
The Growing Concern for Tourists
As the protests spread, concerns are mounting over the safety of foreign nationals in Nepal. Tourists, who initially visited the country for leisure or work, now face unprecedented risks as violence spills into popular tourist destinations like Pokhara. The Indian Embassy’s advisory aims to prevent further casualties and facilitate the safe evacuation of those trapped.
Final Word
With the situation remaining highly volatile, Indian citizens in Nepal are urged to stay in safe locations and use the provided emergency helpline numbers for assistance. The government is committed to ensuring their safety and is closely coordinating efforts to resolve the crisis.
