Kathmandu, May 11 : Netizens of Nepal slammed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently visiting the Himalayan nation, reminding him of the 2015 border blockade and asking him to apologize.
Hashtags like #BlockadeWasCrimeMrModi and #ModiNotWelcomed-InNepal were trending as the Indian leader kicked off his two-day Nepal visit on Friday.
Some users reminded Modi of the border blockade enforced by India when Nepal was still reeling from the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake.
Others demanded that Modi apologize for the 135-day blockade from September 2015 to February 2016 that crippled Nepal's economy and led to tensions between the two countries.
"Sorry, Mr Modi we haven't forgotten blockade. We are not welcoming you but it doesn't mean that we are anti-Indian. We are with Indian people but we condemn the Indian government act of blockade in Nepal," wrote user Shailesh M. Pokharel on Twitter.
Another, Binod Khanal, posted: "Mr Modi Nepali politician will welcome you in Nepal but, Nepalese people never!!"
Former EU ambassador to Nepal Rensje Teerink, now based in Bangladesh, weighed in on the debate by posting a picture showing a long queue of cars and motorcycles waiting for refuelling, with the caption: "These images are hard to forget."
A significant number of Twitteratis were equally critical of the Nepali government for its decision to bestow civic reception to the Indian leader and for giving "hasty makeover" to only those parts of the city where his motorcade was expected to pass.
Taking a dig at the government, user Bhim Atreya commented: "There is a fundamental difference between welcome and flattery. Flattery is insincere, unnatural and abnormal praise, not actually welcoming someone with pleasure in a natural manner. Unnatural circumstances created in the name of welcome. Damned!!"
However, there were many who defended Modi's visit.
"Prime Ministers of both the countries have come to power with thumping majority, so try to celebrate this visit and get the best out of it. Interest is always mutual big or small," wrote a Rohit Thapa.
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Bhatkal: The management and students of New Shams School gathered during their morning assembly on Saturday to mourn the demise of SM Syed Khalil, a prominent NRI businessman and a guiding force for the school.
Addressing the assembly, Education Board member Moulana Ziya Ruknuddin reflected on Syed Khalil’s remarkable life journey. He highlighted how Khalil, born under challenging circumstances following his father’s death before his birth, overcame significant obstacles to achieve great success.
“Khalil’s life is an inspiration for all of us,” Maulana Ruknuddin said, urging students to draw lessons from his resilience, dedication, and humility. He also emphasized Khalil’s commitment to supporting education and his role in uplifting the people of Bhatkal.
Moulana Ziya further acknowledged Khalil’s contributions to the school, noting his instrumental role in constructing the new campus of New Shams School. He described Khalil as a mentor and guide who was always available to offer his support and vision for the betterment of the institution.
Principal Liyaquat Ali and Board Secretary Syed Qutub Barmawar also attended the ceremony, along with teachers and other staff members, as they joined the students in paying tribute to the beloved community leader.