Sunsari tense despite curfew. Panel begins inquiry into clashes

A joint secretary-led, five-member committee has commenced an investigation into the communal violence that erupted in Sunsari's Dewanganj Rural Municipality, Nepal. The clashes, which occurred during the annual Bolbam procession, claimed one life and left 22 people, including security personnel, injured. The Ministry of Home Affairs formed the panel to probe the incident.

The investigation team visited injured individuals at Biratnagar hospitals and consulted with local stakeholders. The violence escalated when police opened fire, fatally wounding 30-year-old Om Prakash Mehta, after tear gas, baton charges, and warning shots failed to disperse the crowd. This use of force has drawn criticism from human rights advocates and security experts questioning its necessity and command oversight.

In response to public pressure, the government transferred Sunsari's chief district officer, the Koshi Province Police chief, and the Sunsari Police chief. However, these transfers did not quell the rising tensions. Fresh demonstrations erupted in multiple rural municipalities, prompting the District Administration Office to impose a curfew across significant areas, prohibiting public gatherings and movement.

Elected representatives from the affected local governments have appealed for restraint as the situation remains tense. The investigation committee is expected to submit its report within a week, aiming to provide clarity on the events and potentially address the underlying causes of the communal violence.

“

We began our field investigation early Tuesday morning. As the inquiry is underway, we cannot disclose further details at this stage.