After viral appeal, India rescues volleyball team stranded in Nepal

Following nationwide violent protests, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has rescued a volleyball team that became stuck in Nepal. According to sources who spoke to India Today, the embassy has been in close communication with the crew and has made arrangements for their safe transit to a secure location. After TV host Upasana Gill appealed for assistance on social media, government representatives acted quickly.

Upasana, who had traveled to Nepal to organize a volleyball league, posted a thorough video detailing the players’ need for evacuation from a Pokhara hotel as protests grew more intense. The embassy promptly intervened after hearing her request and sent the impacted people to a safe place in Kathmandu. Most of the team members have now returned to India, while arrangements are underway for the rest to be brought back.

The protests in Nepal began earlier this week in response to a government-imposed ban on social media, but quickly escalated into widespread demonstrations against corruption and nepotism. The unrest eventually led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Upasana Gill recounted her terrifying escape from a ferocious mob that targeted her Pokhara hotel.

“This video is being sent to Praful Garg by me, Upasana Gill. I kindly ask the Indian Embassy to assist us. Please lend a hand if you can. In her video appeal, she stated, “I am stuck here in Pokhara, Nepal.”

She continued by explaining the assault:

“I had come here to organize a league of volleyball players.” The motel where I was staying was destroyed by fire. My room contained all of my possessions and luggage. I was in the spa when people came running with large sticks. I barely managed to escape with my life.”

Since then, the Indian Embassy has provided emergency helpline numbers, and its Kathmandu control center is organizing assistance for Indian citizens who are trapped throughout Nepal.