Indian blockade more inhuman than war, claims Nepal PM

Nepal’s new Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Friday said that the blockade of key border points with India is ‘more inhuman than a war’ as he criticised New Delhi for raking up alleged rights abuse in Nepal at the UNHRC.

“Foodstuff and protection come into priority under the humanitarian aspect even during a war. Neighbouring country has further troubled our country by blocking checkpoints while it is still paralysed by the April 25 devastating earthquake.

“This is objectionable,” Oli told a delegation of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ). He said the current problem of blockade is the result of an “imported agenda carried by certain elements”.

“Nepal is currently at the receiving end of unofficial blockade. But this is the time for us to find alternative,” he was quoted as saying by local media.

Oli also expressed dissatisfaction over India for targeting Nepal at the United Nations Human Rights Council over alleged human rights violation cases.

“Neighbouring country is bullying us on one hand and raising issues of impunity on the other,” Oli said.

“Our close neighbour has opened our eyes. I will render efforts to bail the country out of the existing crisis, maintaining our national independence, dignity and national integrity,” he added.