Nepal PM urges calm after riots claim three lives

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah has appealed for calm after violent clashes between Hindu and Muslim communities in the country's southern region resulted in three fatalities. The unrest, which began on Sunday evening in the Sunsari district, has prompted the Prime Minister to make his first national address since taking office in March.

Shah urged citizens, civil society, religious communities, political leaders, and the media to exercise patience and maintain peace, harmony, and national unity. He assured the public that the government is committed to conducting a fair and comprehensive investigation into the incident and bringing those responsible to justice.

“

On behalf of the government, I sincerely appeal to the people, civil society, religious communities, all leaders, political parties, and responsible media to be patient, refrain, and maintain peace, harmony, brotherhood, including national unity.

The violence reportedly stemmed from an argument over loud music and the use of religious flags during a Hindu procession. Local officials stated that police fired shots to disperse the agitated crowd. Two men were confirmed dead in the initial incident, according to police spokesperson Abi Narayan Kafle. The exact circumstances leading to the third death were not immediately detailed but occurred amidst the ensuing riots.

The Prime Minister's call for restraint comes as Nepal navigates a period of political transition. His emphasis on responsible citizenship and the eradication of instability signals a commitment to maintaining order and fostering reconciliation between the affected communities.

“

The government is committed to bringing anyone responsible for this incident to justice.