A curfew was enforced in Birgunj after a serious clash broke out between two groups during a religious procession.
The World Hindu Council Nepal (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) had organized a religious rally (Shobha Yatra) in Birgunj. Around 4:50 PM, as the rally reached near the Jama Masjid in Birgunj-2, tensions rose. According to police, someone threw stones at the people in the procession from the mosque area. This triggered a violent clash between the two communities.
The situation quickly turned chaotic. Police had to use tear gas to control the crowd. During the clash, a motorcycle and even a fridge from a nearby shop were set on fire.
Eight police officers were injured while trying to bring the situation under control, and three of them had to be hospitalized.
As things continued to escalate, the local administration decided to impose a curfew starting at 6:30 PM on Saturday evening, lasting until 12 noon on Sunday. The curfew was declared under the Local Administration Act to prevent further violence and to restore peace and order.
Only people involved in essential services are allowed to move during the curfew, and they must carry proper ID and documents. Anyone breaking the curfew rules will face legal action.
