Border on Hold: Nepal-India Crossings to Shut Temporarily for Uttarakhand Polls

Ahead of the next panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, the government has directed temporary sealing of important Nepal-India border crossing points to provide security and ensure law and order. Sealing would be done at crossing points in Baitadi and Darchula districts on July 24 and July 28, in accordance with the two-phase schedule of polling.
Key Points of the Border Advisory

1. Planned Shutdowns
- Baitadi and Darchula border points will be shut down on July 24 and 28.
- Pulghat checkpost in Darchula will be closed from the evening of July 21 to morning of July 24.
- Baitadi's Jhulaghat border will be closed from midnight of July 25 to morning of July 28.

2. Cause of the Shutdown
Indian and Nepalese governments collectively decided to avert cross-border agitations, unauthorised movement, and peaceful voting in the border districts of Uttarakhand.

3. Emergency Provisions
Where there are medical emergencies or urgent travel requirements, the checkpoints can be opened temporarily on a mutual basis between both governments.

4. Historical Context
These shutdowns are common during Indian elections, especially in open border states. The move shows mutual desires to preserve democratic credibility and area stability.

5. Advisory for Travellers
Regular travellers and business users are requested to bring forward bookings and rearrange journeys on the affected dates. Measures have been in place to avoid inconvenience and provide for a smooth running. 

Sources: Economic Times, India Today, The Himalayan Times