Indian Ministry instructed its agencies to lift blockade

Kathmandu October 4- After a series of denial on imposition of blockade, Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has instructed its agencies to lift the unofficial blockade against Nepal, ending 11-day restrictions on Nepal-bound cargo trucks and freights.  Indian move to ease restrictions at border points comes as result of a series of diplomatic engagements with the Nepali side.

Secretary General of United Nation Ban Ki Moon enquired deputy prime minister Prakash Man Singh about scarcity of fuel in Nepal caused by Indian blockade. Besides, international forum enquired about the blockade with India. The unofficial blockade came in the wake of New Delhi’s concern over the unrest in Tarai following the promulgation of the new constitution. India has denied any imposition of blockade and the blamed the volatile situation in Nepal’s southern plains for the problem.

Saturday’s decision to ease restrictions comes amid India’s reading that the political negotiations in Kathmandu have progressed towards a broad agreement following the decision of the major parties to register amendments to address grievances of the disgruntled parties giving India an opportunity for safe landing of blockade. Nepal's Ambassador to India Deep Kumar Upadhyay confirmed that the Indian side informed to ease transportation to Nepal as soon as possible.

 Meanwhile, Industrialist Binod Kumar Chaudhary played an important role to end misunderstanding between Nepal and India. He went to meet Indian Officials to facilitate the problem as an informal messenger of Prime Minister Sushil Koirala and UML Chairman K.P Oli. Chaudhary also met with agitating Madhesi Leaders before leaving for Delhi.