Curfew Imposed in Birgunj After Clash Between Muslim and Hindu Communities

A curfew has been declared in Birgunj Metropolitan City, effective from 1 p.m. today, according to a notice issued by Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal. The order completely bans any gatherings, processions, rallies, or demonstrations in areas including the Eastern Bus Park, Sirsiya Bridge in the west, Power House Chowk in the north, and Shankaracharya Gate in the south. Violators of the curfew will face strict legal action.

Yesterday (Sunday), a large demonstration took place there. When protesters clashed with police, the police fired warning shots and deployed five rounds of tear gas to control the situation, and one police officer was slightly injured.

The unrest was sparked after unknown individuals vandalized a mosque in the Muslim settlement of Sakhuwa Maran in Dhanukamala Municipality-6, Dhanusha, and burned copies of the Qur’an, which angered the Muslim community.