Raxaul/ Patna: Communal violence in Nepal’s Birgunj has prompted authorities to impose a 24-hour curfew and seal the border with India at Raxaul, amid rising tensions and reports of injuries and arson.
The unrest erupted on Saturday in the Chapkaiya locality of Birgunj Metropolitan City after stones were allegedly hurled from rooftops onto a religious procession, triggering panic and chaos. The situation quickly escalated, with mobs setting shops and vehicles ablaze. At least 50 people, including women, children, bystanders, and police officers, were reportedly injured in the ensuing violence.
To contain the unrest, Nepal Police resorted to firing tear gas shells, but the situation remained volatile. The administration, led by Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal, announced a 24-hour curfew and sealed the Raxaul–Birgunj border to prevent further escalation. Officials have indicated that the curfew could be extended depending on the ground situation.
The violence has deeply affected the India-Nepal border town of Raxaul in Bihar’s East Champaran district. Many Raxaul residents, who run businesses in Birgunj, are reportedly stranded and in hiding, leaving their families anxious for their return. India is closely monitoring the developments in the neighbouring region, with concerns heightened by the close social and economic ties shared between the communities on both sides of the border.
