DistantNews
Support us
🇳🇵 Nepal /Conflict & Security

Madhesh tensions ease after all-party talks, heightened security

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Tensions in parts of Madhesh and Koshi provinces have eased following all-party talks and increased security measures.
  • Curfews and restrictions on public gatherings remain in effect in some districts while security forces maintain a strong presence.
  • Authorities have arrested 38 individuals for disturbing public order and spreading inflammatory content, as efforts focus on restoring normalcy and providing relief.

A heightened security presence and a series of high-level political consultations have begun to ease tensions across Madhesh and Koshi provinces following recent communal unrest. The situation, which had spread across multiple districts, saw security forces deployed alongside the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force to restore order.

Despite improvements, curfews and restrictions on public gatherings persist in several sensitive areas, including parts of Sunsari, Siraha, Saptari, and Dhanusha. The District Administration Office in Parsa has also continued limitations on demonstrations. Security operations are being overseen by senior officers dispatched from Nepal Police Headquarters to coordinate the response.

We have taken 38 people into custody from various locations in Koshi and Madhesh provinces on charges of disturbing public order, spreading inflammatory content and attempting to incite communal discord.

— Abi Narayan KafleProviding an update on arrests made in connection with the unrest.

Deputy Inspector General Abi Narayan Kafle reported that the situation in the Tarai region is gradually normalizing, aided by appeals for calm from political leaders and peace initiatives by local administrations and community groups. "We have taken 38 people into custody from various locations in Koshi and Madhesh provinces on charges of disturbing public order, spreading inflammatory content and attempting to incite communal discord," Kafle stated.

Home Minister Sudan Gurung's visit to Sunsari and Siraha, where he engaged with victims' families and community representatives, played a crucial role in de-escalating the situation. Prime Minister Balendra Shah also convened meetings with lawmakers from the Rastriya Swatantra Party and representatives from the Tarai-Madhesh region to discuss the government's response, emphasizing relief for affected families, public safety, and impartial investigations.

The government has adopted a comprehensive approach to maintain law and order, protect vulnerable communities and prevent any further escalation.

— Balendra ShahOutlining the government's strategy to address the crisis.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog