KATHMANDU, March 17: The government has ordered a probe into the burning of books authored by Chinese President Xi Jinping at a technical institute in Morang—an incident that has drawn a strong diplomatic reaction from Beijing and raised concerns over Nepal-China relations.
Acting on a communication from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the police and local administration in Morang to investigate the incident and take action against those responsible. The incident came to light after the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu sent a note verbale to the MoFA, urging prompt action following reports that multiple copies of President Xi’s book *The Governance of China* were burned inside Manmohan Technical Institute in Budhiganga on Saturday night.
Officials said the MoFA relayed the embassy’s concerns to the Ministry of Home Affairs, which in turn instructed local administration and security agencies in Biratnagar to establish the facts and ensure accountability.
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The controversy surfaced after a video showing stacks of books being set on fire inside the college premises went viral on social media. Footage reviewed by media outlets shows individuals burning various documents, including copies of the Chinese leader’s publication, and displaying them before the camera.
China has lodged a strong protest over the incident, terming it sensitive given the close bilateral ties. The incident has added to a series of recent concerns raised by Beijing over developments in Nepal, including issues related to Tibetan figures, infrastructure projects, and Chinese companies operating in the country.
Local officials in Morang said an investigation is underway, though the circumstances surrounding the presence of large quantities of the books at the college remain unclear. Chief District Officer Yuvaraj Kattel described the incident as serious, particularly in the context of Nepal’s relations with its northern neighbour.
The technical institute authorities have offered differing explanations. According to officials, the books were allegedly old and damaged, prompting staff to dispose of them due to space constraints. However, video footage circulating on social media shows that many of the copies appeared new and usable condition.
Officials said the college has yet to submit a detailed report to the district administration. Authorities say the findings of the ongoing investigation will determine further action.
