Eknath Shinde Assures Safe Return of Maharashtra Tourists Stranded Amid Nepal Protests

Mumbai: Amid escalating violence in Nepal, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday personally reached out to tourists from the state who are stuck in the Himalayan nation, assuring them of full assistance for their safe return. Officials said nearly 150 tourists from Maharashtra remain stranded due to the ongoing Gen-Z–led protests.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also addressed the matter, saying her government is keeping a close watch on the situation. “I take the issue regarding the tourists stuck in Nepal seriously. I want to tell them to wait for a while till the situation becomes normal. We are monitoring the situation closely and will bring all of you back soon,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Ahmedabad District Administration has issued a helpline number for locals stranded in Nepal. Citizens or their relatives have been advised to contact 079-27560511 for assistance, according to a statement from the Resident Additional Collector.

The unrest in Nepal has taken a deadly turn. The Ministry of Health and Population reported that the death toll from the September 8 protests has climbed to 30. Nationwide, 1,033 people have been injured—713 have been discharged, 55 referred to other hospitals, and 253 remain under treatment. The Civil Service Hospital in Kathmandu is handling the largest caseload with 436 patients, followed by the National Trauma Centre with 161, and Everest Hospital with 109. In total, 28 hospitals are treating those affected.

The protests, spearheaded by Gen-Z activists, erupted after the government imposed a ban on social media apps, which quickly became a flashpoint for anger against alleged corruption and favoritism in governance. Demonstrations escalated into violent clashes, with security forces opening fire as protesters stormed government buildings, including the Parliament and the President’s office.