Authorities in Nepal have extended an indefinite curfew in the southeastern district of Sunsari, near the Indian state of Bihar, after communal clashes during a religious procession left one person dead and 22 others injured, including 13 security personnel, officials said.
The violence broke out after an argument over loud music and religious flags during the procession escalated into clashes between members of two communities. Police fired to disperse the crowd after the situation deteriorated, according to local authorities.
Nepal’s The Kathmandu Post reported that one person was killed in the police firing, while 22 people, including 13 security personnel, were injured.
Sunsari, a key commercial and transit district bordering Bihar, has remained under heavy security since the incident. Authorities said the curfew would remain in force to prevent further violence.
The Nepal government announced compensation for those affected. Assistant Chief District Officer Poshan Lamichhane said the family of the deceased would receive 200,000 Nepalese rupees ($1,450), while each injured person would receive 50,000 rupees to help cover medical expenses.
In a statement, the government said it was committed to providing compensation to victims and taking legal action against those responsible for the violence.
Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah expressed condolences over the death and appealed for calm and communal harmony. The government has also formed an inquiry committee to investigate the incident and submit its findings within a week.
The police response has drawn criticism from human rights activists and security analysts, who questioned whether the use of live ammunition constituted excessive force. The incident has prompted calls for an independent investigation and greater accountability.
Amid growing public pressure, the government transferred several senior officials, including Sunsari Chief District Officer Basudev Ghimire, Koshi Province Police Chief Deputy Inspector General Binod Ghimire and Sunsari Police Chief Keshav Kumar.
Protesters have demanded action against both the district administration and police leadership, accusing authorities of mishandling the situation.
The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the clashes, including whether police acted in accordance with the law, and identify those responsible for one of the deadliest episodes of communal unrest in Nepal’s southeastern border region in recent years.
Support Independent Media
Click Here and Join the Membership of Millat Times to Support Independent Media.
Support Millat Times