India monitoring Nepal situation

Expressing concern over the death of an Indian in Nepal, India on Monday said it was monitoring the situation carefully.

“We are deeply concerned over reports of firing today in Birgunj. An innocent Indian was killed in the firing,” the external affairs ministry spokesperson said.

“Issues facing Nepal are political in nature and cannot be resolved by force,” the spokesman said.

“Causes underlying the present state of confrontation need to (be) addressed by the government of Nepal credibly and effectively.”

Indian transporters voiced concerns on Monday about the deteriorating situation in Nepal, the official said.

“We are advising them to exercise caution and not put themselves in danger,” he said.

Earlier, Nepal police shot dead an Indian national during protests in the country’s Birgunj city close to the Indian border.

The deceased was identified as Asish Kumar Ram, 24. He belonged to Bihar.