Curfew imposed in Birgunj following religious protests and police clashes

The District Administration Office (DAO), Parsa has issued a curfew in Birgunj Metropolitan City after protests linked to religious tensions escalated into clashes with security forces.

The administration had initially enforced a prohibitory order on Monday afternoon, which restricted all forms of public gatherings, including meetings, rallies, processions, and demonstrations. It is now upgraded to a full curfew as demonstrations by different religious groups intensified. 

According to the DAO, the curfew applies within the eastern boundary of the Birgunj bypass road, Sirsiya Bridge to the west, Power House Chowk to the north, and Sankaracharya Gate to the south.

The curfew will remain in effect until Tuesday at 8:00 am. Authorities have warned that security personnel are authorised to take strict action against anyone violating the curfew, including shooting at sight. Residents requiring emergency assistance have been advised to contact nearby security officials or dial 100.

Recommended

Growing communal clashes in Nepal’s southern plains: A timeline

Protests have erupted in several parts of Madhesh following reports of damage to a mosque in Dhanusha. A group of unidentified persons vandalised a mosque in ward 6 of the Kamala Municipality on Sunday.

Following the vandalism, a group from Muslim community staged rallies, burned tyres and chanted slogans in protest. A brief clash broke out during yesterday's protest between protesters and police at Chhapkiya Idgah Chowk in Birgunj. Police used several rounds of tear gas to control the situation. 

On Monday morning, members of the Hindu community also staged demonstrations demanding strict action against individuals making offensive remarks about Hindu deities. A clearer understanding of the circumstances and developments surrounding the protests has yet to emerge.