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The authorities in Nepal’s Birgunj Municipality, located in the Parsa district, have extended a curfew until midnight on Sunday following violent clashes during a Hanuman Jayanti procession.
The curfew, initially imposed from Saturday evening until Sunday noon, was extended as tensions remained high in the region.
The unrest began when a religious procession, carrying an idol of Lord Hanuman, was reportedly attacked with stones as it moved through the city.
The incident quickly escalated, resulting in a confrontation between two groups. The violence left around two dozen people injured, including both residents and police personnel.
According to a police official, the procession had commenced from Ghantaghar and was making its way through key areas of the city when it came under attack by what authorities described as "anti-social elements."
The stone-pelting triggered chaos and clashes that led to the injuries.
In response, the Parsa District Administration issued a curfew order to restore order and prevent further escalation.
The order strictly prohibits the movement of people, along with any public gatherings, protests, or rallies in the central parts of Birgunj, which lies close to the Indian border town of Raxaul.
Officials said the curfew was necessary to maintain peace and ensure public safety. Security forces have been deployed across sensitive areas of the city, and patrolling has been intensified.
The incident has raised concerns over communal harmony in the region, which has historically shared cultural and economic ties with neighbouring India.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement as the situation is being closely monitored.
While normal life in Birgunj remains disrupted, officials are hopeful that peace will soon be restored.
The district administration has also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading rumours or engaging in activities that could inflame the situation further.
