Nepal has extended an indefinite curfew in Sunsari after communal clashes turned deadly. The government has ordered an investigation and promised justice, compensation and accountability.
Nepal has extended an indefinite curfew in parts of the India-bordering Sunsari district after communal violence left one person dead and several others injured. Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Tuesday expressed grief over the incident and said the government would ensure justice for the bereaved family, compensation for those affected and action against those responsible.
The restrictions were first imposed on Monday after violence broke out on Sunday in the Kaptangunj area. Police said one person was killed and more than a dozen people, including security personnel, were injured when police opened fire to disperse clashing groups after a dispute during celebrations by two religious communities.
In a social media post, Shah paid tribute to the person killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery. “The government stands in deep solidarity with the affected families and reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice for them,” he said. He also said, “The death and injuries of citizens from gunfire by security personnel are matters of serious concern, and an investigation has been initiated.” Shah said action would be taken against those found guilty.
The prime minister said the government was seriously reviewing the entire incident and that necessary decisions and corrective measures would be implemented. He urged people to remain restrained, avoid provocation, anger and retaliation, and help maintain social harmony, mutual trust and tolerance.
The local administration issued a fresh notice at 9 pm on Tuesday, saying the curfew had been extended from the earlier five places to six areas in the district. The curfew will remain in force until further notice, and violators have been warned of legal action. The notice said all gatherings, demonstrations, sit-ins, public meetings and movement of people are prohibited within the curfew zone.
The restrictions cover the East-West Highway within Itahari Sub-metropolitan City Ward Nos 16 and 17, the East-West Highway within Ramdhuni Municipality Ward Nos 1 and 5, and the entire areas of Inaruwa Municipality, Duhabi Municipality, Bhokraha Narsingh Rural Municipality, Koshi Rural Municipality, Gadhi Rural Municipality, Devangunj Rural Municipality, Harihar Rural Municipality and Barju Rural Municipality. Sunsari, in southeastern Nepal along the border with India’s Bihar, is a key transit and commercial corridor between the two countries, and the district remains under curfew after the violence and the government’s call for calm and accountability.
With PTI Inputs
