Nepal imposes heavy duties on Indian goods

Under Prime Minister Balen Shah, Nepal has begun enforcing heavy customs duties of up to 80% on all Indian goods valued above NPR 100 (approximately ₹100). The policy applies even to small grocery packets and daily essentials, leading to long queues, aggressive checks, and confiscations at border crossings that are crippling daily life for residents. Protests have erupted in Birgunj and other areas, with many calling the measures an "impractical undeclared blockade" amid growing public anger. Viral videos circulating online show the intense scrutiny and disruption at the border.