Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is traveling to Uzbekistan for a two-day state visit, after which he will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Kyrgyzstan. As of the latest update, at least 320 Indian nationals are reported missing in Nepal due to recent floods. The Indian foreign ministry has confirmed that these individuals were primarily working or traveling in Nepal. The floods, caused by a glacier collapse, have resulted in over 600 fatalities and more than 2,000 people missing in Nepal and Tibet.
Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), is scheduled to address approximately 5,000 members of Indian American groups in New York City. The event, titled "Universal Oneness Celebration," is organized by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue and has faced protests and criticism from various groups, including the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which has called for sanctions against Bhagwat and RSS members.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed USCIRF's remarks as biased. Reports from United Nations bodies and human rights organizations have highlighted an increase in abuses against religious minorities in India, including hate speech and discriminatory laws.
During his visit to Uzbekistan, Modi is expected to discuss enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, digital connectivity, defense, and energy with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Modi has expressed his anticipation for these discussions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between India and Uzbekistan. After Uzbekistan, Modi will proceed to Kyrgyzstan for the SCO Summit, where he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The Indian government has dispatched multiple flights carrying relief supplies and medical teams to assist in Nepal following the floods. Indian embassies in Kathmandu and Beijing are coordinating with local authorities to locate the missing nationals and provide support.