New Delhi: The situation in India’s neighbour, Nepal, is deteriorating once again as violence erupts between two communities. The country has been awaiting stability since the KP Oli government was forced to resign following protests led by Gen-Z. Communal violence in various parts of Nepal has compounded challenges for the administration and the government, with the situation remaining volatile.
All eyes are now on Balen Shah, the head of the new administration, to see how he navigates these difficulties. Three people have lost their lives in the violence so far, and the police have arrested eight individuals. Following the outbreak of violence, the administration has imposed a curfew in Dhanusha district, including Janakpur,r until further notice. Strict restrictions have also been enforced in sensitive areas of Sunsari, Siraha, and Saptari districts.
What triggered the violence in Nepal?
Police and security forces have been deployed in large numbers to restore peace. According to the latest reports, three people have died, and over a dozen others have been injured; the injured are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals.
Media reports indicate that the dispute began on Saturday in the Sunsari district of Koshi Province over religious events organised by two different religious communities. It is reported that a conflict arose between the two groups regarding the use of loudspeakers and religious flags. The dispute escalated rapidly, eventually turning into violence.
As the situation worsened, the administration resorted to a lathi-charge, but they were unable to bring the situation under control. Consequently, the police had to open fire, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. Within a few days, the tension spread to Madhesh Province. On Thursday, a teenager died during a clash in Siraha district, and another injured person succumbed while undergoing treatment. In total, three people have lost their lives in this violence so far.
Administration on alert at India-Nepal border
It is worth noting that three people have died so far due to the violence that has erupted in Nepal. With several others in critical condition, the death toll could rise. In light of the communal violence in Nepal, vigilance has been stepped up at the Indian border.
Instructions have been issued requiring everyone travelling from India to Nepal to carry an identity document. Meanwhile, given the situation, a curfew was imposed on Friday morning in parts of the Rajbiraj Municipality in Saptari district. Eight people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence; five of the accused were apprehended from Siraha district and three from Dhanusha district.
