Border ‘Sealed’ for Elections: Rupaidiha Checkpoint Deserted

Nepalgunj – All border checkpoints in Banke district connected to India, including the Rupaidiha crossing, have been closed to ensure a fear-free and fair environment for the House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21. Following the implementation of a 72-hour border closure that began at midnight of Falgun 18, the key commercial hub of Rupaidiha has become completely deserted.

According to the District Administration Office, Banke, these checkpoints will remain closed until midnight of Falgun 21, the day after the election. During this period, all individuals and vehicles are prohibited from crossing the border. However, provisions have been made to allow passage in cases of urgent medical treatment or other special circumstances, only with permission from security agencies.

The Rupaidiha checkpoint is one of the major transit points for Nepal-India trade. Thousands of travelers and hundreds of vehicles used to cross this checkpoint daily. Local businesses and laborers have been affected by the closure. Traders suggest that the halt in supply of daily consumables like vegetables and fruits imported from India could also have some impact on market prices.

According to security sources, a joint team of Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and Provincial Armed Police (PAP) has been deployed to ensure strict security in the border area during the closure. Regular patrolling and checks have been intensified to prevent any untoward incidents.

The local administration has also informed the Indian district administration across the border about the closure. The District Administration Office stated that the border closure has been effectively implemented through coordination between the security agencies on both sides.

The closure of the Rupaidiha checkpoint has caused some inconvenience to the general public. Travelers needing to go to India or enter Nepal from India for essential work have faced difficulties. However, most locals have welcomed this step, considering it necessary for the security of the elections.