The authorities of Nepal have declared a curfew in various areas of the districts of Dhanusha and Siraha, after the serious incidents recorded at the beginning of the week in Sunsari, in the southeast of the country and near the border with India, a wave of intercommunal violence that has left at least two deceased.
The administrations of Dhanusha and Siraha have independently issued curfew orders that limit movements, gatherings, protests, and any other public activity in these areas until further notice.
In Sunsari, the curfew was already in effect, although the Army had to intervene in Kaptanganj when groups of protesters challenged the restriction, causing damage to commercial establishments and setting several points on fire, according to "The Himalayan Times".
A 22-year-old young man died in the hospital after being shot during the disturbances in Kaptaan Ganj, in the municipality of Dewanganj. Another 25-year-old young man lost his life on Sunday night due to alleged gunfire from security forces during clashes that left at least nine injured.
The clashes between communities originated when a group of worshippers participated in the Hindu pilgrimage of Bol Bam towards the Saptakoshi River. The Police used tear gas to disperse a group of Muslims who confronted the pilgrims, but the actions of the agents fueled discontent and protests spread to other points in Nepal.
The Prime Minister of Nepal, Balendra Shah, has promised to open a thorough investigation into what happened and to implement measures to prevent similar events from recurring, emphasizing that the current priority is "to ensure the safety of its citizens".
"I share the pain of the families who have suffered losses due to this incident. The Government will ensure that justice is served and that the corresponding compensations are granted as soon as possible. I assure you that those responsible will be prosecuted according to the law to prevent incidents of this nature from happening again," he stated in a message on social media.