KATHMANDU: Indian security agencies have made it mandatory for travellers from Nepal to carry valid identity cards, local media said here on Monday.
According to Nepal's national news agency, Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), Indian security agencies have started tightening the border in western Nepal ahead of India's Independence Day on August 15.
Nepali nationals normally do not require visa to visit India and the same provision is also implemented for Indian nationals.
According to the Indian Seema Surakshya Bal (SSB), security has been tightened at Jhulaghat, the border area in Baitadi, one the major entry points between the two countries.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Mohan Prasad Pokharel said Nepalis heading towards India would be turned back from border points if they do not have identity cards.
Although Nepali nationals travelling to Indian bordering markets like Jhulaghat, Dharchula and Pithoragarh do not need to carry identity cards, the document is necessary for those travelling to different parts of India, including major cities.