Several towns in southeastern Nepal remained under curfew following days of sectarian violence between Hindus and Muslims that erupted on Sunday. The clashes have resulted in at least three deaths and 25 injuries, with authorities investigating the incidents and urging for calm.
The violence highlights underlying sectarian tensions in Nepal and poses a challenge to the government's ability to maintain order and ensure the safety of its citizens, particularly in the border region with India.
Several towns in southeastern Nepal were under curfew on Friday as authorities worked to contain lingering tensions following days of sectarian violence between Hindus and Muslims. The unrest, which began on Sunday, has resulted in at least three deaths and 25 injuries.
Authorities reported that the violence erupted in Diwanganj, a town in the Sunsari district bordering India, following a dispute over loud music and religious flags during a Hindu event. Two men were killed in Sunsari on Sunday, and a third death occurred in the neighboring Siraha district on Thursday amid sporadic clashes. Police spokesperson Abi Narayan Kafle stated that the incidents are under investigation.
While no violence was reported on Friday, an indefinite curfew remained in effect in several towns to prevent any recurrence. Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed the nation on Thursday, urging for calm and promising a transparent and impartial investigation into the violence, with those responsible to be punished.
Home Minister Sudan Gurung met with the families of the two individuals killed in Sunsari on Thursday, agreeing to provide approximately $6,660 in relief to each family. Gurung was also scheduled to visit Siraha on Friday to meet with the family of the third victim.