India seeks political solution to problems in Nepal

India on Wednesday sought a political solution to the problems in Nepal, where protests against the new constitution have virtually closed the borders with India and led to massive shortages.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj conveyed this message when Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Kamal Thapa met her here.

Sushma Swaraj reiterated the "need for urgent political solution to political problems facing Nepal", external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted.

Nepal's new constitution has evoked strong resentment from the southern Terai region where Madhesi political parties have launched violent protests alleging that their interests had been ignored.

The protests have led to a blockade of essential supplies from India to Nepal. Most border crossing points on the Nepal side have been shut due to the protests.

Sushma Swaraj assured Thapa "that there is no hindrance to supplies from India. But Nepal needs to normalize situation asap", Swarup tweeted.