Tensions Rise After Protests Escalate in Birgunj; Police Fire Aerial Shots , Tear Gas to Control Situation

On Sunday, police fired aerial shots and used tear gas to control the situation after protests turned violent in Birgunj against the vandalism of a mosque and the burning of the holy Quran in Dhanusha.

Clashes between demonstrators and police led the security forces to fire aerial shots and release five rounds of tear gas to restore order. One police officer was slightly injured during the clashes.

The Muslim community became outraged after unknown individuals vandalized a mosque and burned the Quran in the Muslim settlement of Sakhuwa Maran in Dhanukamala Municipality-6, Dhanusha, on Saturday.

Since Sunday morning, life in Birgunj was disrupted as protesters blocked roads with burning tires at various locations. At Chhapakaiya Idgah Chowk, demonstrators pelted police with stones, prompting security forces to use force, according to the District Police Office.

Maulana Asgar Madani of Chhapakaiya Madrasa, participating in the protest, described the incident as a heinous crime aimed at undermining Nepal’s age-old religious harmony and tolerance. He warned that if the government does not immediately bring those responsible for entering a sacred place and burning holy scriptures to justice, the movement would be strengthened further.

Local authorities said security has been tightened in sensitive areas of Birgunj and efforts are underway to restore normalcy.