Authorities have significantly increased security measures at several India-Nepal border crossings, directing personnel to conduct stricter identity verification for all travellers. Effective immediately, an Aadhaar card alone will no longer be accepted as a valid document for entry or exit. Travellers must now present either a valid Indian passport, an original Indian Voter ID card with a photograph, or another government-issued identity document.
Enhanced Security at Key Crossings
The heightened surveillance has been notably implemented at the Indo-Nepal Galgalia border, among other points. This move by administration and security agencies aims to bolster border security and combat the rise in illegal activities. Security personnel have received instructions to meticulously scrutinise documents and remain vigilant for any suspicious behaviour. Additionally, patrolling in border regions has been stepped up.
Officials have urged all individuals planning to travel between India and Nepal to ensure they carry the necessary valid identity documents to prevent inconveniences during inspections. Non-compliance with the new regulations could result in legal action.
Indian Embassy Reiterates Air Travel Rules
This tightening of land border checks aligns with existing regulations for air travel between the two nations. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu explicitly states that only a valid Indian passport or an original Indian Voter ID card (issued by the Election Commission of India) is acceptable for Indian nationals travelling by air. The embassy clarifies that downloaded or online printouts of Voter ID cards, along with other documents like Aadhaar, PAN cards, or driving licenses, are not accepted for air travel to Nepal.
Following Nepal's Lead on Enforcement
The current enforcement drive by Indian authorities comes months after Nepal also intensified its checks against the unauthorised entry of Indian-registered vehicles into its border towns. In April, Nepalese officials confirmed they were not introducing new regulations but were strengthening the enforcement of existing rules. This action was prompted by a surge in unauthorised vehicle movements and mounting concerns over security, tax evasion, and other illicit activities. Local authorities in Nepal's Sarlahi district highlighted the growing insecurity and illegal activities linked to unchecked cross-border vehicle movements, with Nepal’s Home Ministry also seeking data on Indian-registered vehicles operating in Madhesh province bordering Bihar.