Smuggling Persists as Customs Authorities Continue Harassing Citizens Under Revenue Collection Pretext

The Armed Police Force has imposed strict regulations at border checkpoints, requiring customs duties on household items exceeding a value of 100 rupees. Residents living near the border have expressed their opposition to the new customs policy, showing frustration on social media. Former Minister Mahanta Thakur has warned of rebellion in parliament against the government and demanded revisions to the policy.

The Armed Police forcibly snatch bags from women wearing burqas. These bags contain household consumables. One woman, angered by the enforcement, throws several packets of instant noodles and snacks on the ground, stating that the items were intended for her child. An elderly man, agitated by the inspection, crushes several bunches of bananas he had carried on his motorcycle and throws the bananas into a trash bin. These scenes reflect the public outcry following stricter enforcement of the customs regulation that mandates citizens pay customs duties if goods procured from India exceed 100 rupees in value at border points.

Such dissatisfaction with the revised customs and security policies under the new government has gone viral on social media platforms. Though posts may not be widespread on Facebook, TikTok, or Reels, outrage among border communities has intensified. The Armed Police’s strict imposition of customs on even household-use items has fueled growing protests. Ramkala Devi, encountered at Jatahi checkpoint in Dhanusha on Friday, said, “People across the border are relatives; where will we find money to pay duties on small household items that are normally given free?”

Former Minister Hridayesh Tripathi commented, “Those based in Kathmandu who are unaware of the border community’s conditions are again possessed by the ‘ghost’ of increased revenue collection. This phantom has appeared periodically in the past.” He considers the policy to charge customs on goods over 100 rupees as disrespectful to border residents. “Vegetables for cooking can cost 100 rupees; toothpaste does not reach that price,” Tripathi stated, “This government has failed to understand the impracticality of such a policy.”